MPI Toronto Chapter Blog

MPI Toronto E-Newsletter - April 2010

The fourth edition of the MPI Toronto Chapter's new e-newsletter was sent to your inbox on Wednesday, April 21st...have you had a chance to check it out yet? Designed to be a supplement to our chapter magazine MEETING, the e-newsletter provides more timely information about what is going on inside our chapter. This month's features include the following:

Upcoming Events

Do More with Less at the Friday May 7 Monthly Meeting

Embracing change and doing more with less are two of the major challenges facing business professionals today and meeting planners are definitely no exception. How do we continue to maintain our standards of excellence with fewer resources, less staff, and stretched budgets?

Volunteer Recognition Event - A Night at the Races

It's hard to believe that we're in the home stretch of another great year at MPI Toronto! As we near the end of the 2009-2010 Board term, all active committee volunteers are invited to a special recognition event to be held in their honour at Woodbine Racetrack on Wednesday, May 12, 2010.

Building Human Connections: Ideas, Relationships, Conversations at the Toronto Education Conference (TEC)

Toronto Education Conference (TEC) 2010 - Human Connections: Ideas, Relationships, Conversations. May 30-31, 2010

Thinking of Getting Your CMP? Start Here!

Have you been thinking about getting your CMP but need some assistance in getting prepared for the exam? Do you have the qualifications to apply except you are missing the 25 hours of continuing education? Well, MPI Global Training can help you get there.

Change the World at the 2010 MPI World Education Congress

Registration for the MPI World Education Congress July 24-27, 2010 is now open. Don't miss this opportunity to change the world! Register by Friday April 23 at the limited time offer of $399 USD.

Member Connection

Toronto Mayor declares April 15th, 2010 as Meetings Industry Day

April 15, 2010 was declared Meetings Industry Day in Toronto by our Mayor, David Miller. This was a great start to what turned out to be a fantastic event at the Allstream Centre at Exhibition Place with over 370 attendees representing ten meeting industry associations who came together to celebrate the Path to Prosperity.

Style MPI Awards Gala

On Thursday, March 4th, the MPI Toronto Chapter recognized our outstanding members at the sold-out 'Style MPI' Awards Gala held at the Fairmont Royal York.

First Annual ECOS Project SUCCESS!

Congratulations to Team ECOS (Events for Communities of Sustainability) and the MPI Toronto Chapter for all of your efforts in our Food Drive for the Daily Bread Food Bank!

Where Bold Met Business - Postcards from Cancun

MPI's MeetDifferent, formerly the Professional Education Conference (PEC) - North America, took place for the very last time in Cancun, Mexico February 20-23, 2010. Here are what a few of our Board members had to say about the experience.

MPI Toronto members attend MeetDifferent thanks to the Chapter's Education Reserve Fund (ERF)

The benefits of attending an International MPI conference far outweigh the costs associated with attending. Prior to leaving, I was very excited about attending the conference, as I had attended once before in New Orleans. But this time I was really excited- this time it was in Cancun!

Interested in attending the WEC this summer?

The World Education Congress takes place in beautiful Vancouver, BC July 25-27, 2010! Help change the world by submitting your Education Reserve Fund (ERF) Scholarship application by Tuesday, May 25th.

Mentorship Matters - Toronto Chapter Mentorship Program

MPI Toronto launched its mentoring program in January. With one pairing of mentor and mentee and a few other mentors already signed up, we are looking to spread the word and encourage both mentors and mentees to come forward. For those of you who have been lucky enough to either have been mentored or have been a mentor, you know the win-win benefits of this relationship!

Connect with MPI Toronto Chapter on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter and our new Chapter website!

  

Committee Corner

MPI Toronto Student Club - Cultivating Careers

We are pleased to share with you the success of our first educational session, held on March 19, 2010. With the promise to help fellow students cultivate and launch their careers, the MPI Toronto Student Club planned and executed a Resume Building educational session.

Focus On...

Special Education Projects Committee and Education Committee.

My MPI

Renew Your MPI Membership Online and Save 5%

It's easy to save when renewing your MPI membership. Renew on-line with a credit or debit card and you will automatically receive a 5% discount off your renewal fee.

MPI Member Referral Rewards Program

Share your passion for MPI by recruiting a new full-paying member, and receive a $25 credit towards your membership renewal.

Free MeetDifferent Virtual Access Pass Still Available

As an MPI Member you have full access to the MeetDifferent Vitual Access Pass (VAP) free of charge.

Free Career Development Webinars

Whether you're ready to move up the career ladder, trying to better position your business, or simply looking for strategies to get your ideas heard, MPI Knowledge Exchange Career Development Webinars empower meeting and business event professionals to take action on their big ideas.

2010 Certification in Meeting Management (CMM)

The mission of the Certification in Meeting Management (CMM) program is to select, educate, and certify management-level meeting and event professionals. The focus of the certification is to provide continuing educational enhancements to the strategic decision-making ability of these leaders to manage and deliver exceptional meetings and events that drive organizational success.

Industry News

Business Events Industry Coalition of Canada (BEICC) Update

For an organisation that was formed a few short months ago, BEICC has been working down a very ambitious "to-do" list at a steady pace.

Movers and Shakers

Waterside Inn Hotel receives Three Green Key Rating
M&IT Hall of Fame Winners Announced
Delta Hotels and Resorts chooses AVW-TELAV as National Audio Visual Provider
MPI Toronto members join Canadian Advisory Committee for ISO 20121
Saskatoon receives "City of the Year" Tower of Industry Award
Ovation Global DMC's Growth continues at Six New Locations
Speakers' Spotlight Launches Innovative CELEBRITY DIVISION

The New Reality explored in March/April issue of MEETING

We are delighted to announce the March/April 2010 digital edition of MEETING is now available for viewing!

Designed to supplement the print publication, the digital edition comes complete with the same great editorial content and visual appeal; plus convenient, interactive tools only available online.

Feature articles from this issue include:

• Return on Investment - Events (ROI-E)

• The Latest on Cyber Meetings

• Student Job Search Using Social Media

You may access past issues of MEETING in our digital edition archives. Remember to add noreply@naylorcampaign10.com to your safe-sender list to ensure you receive future digital editions.

A big thank you to the following members of the Communications Commitee who co-created this issue of MEETING: Geoff Mak (Chair), Wendy Baker, Becky Bays, Pamela Brohm, Pat Cluett, Bori Csillag, Heather Dahmer, Julie Dunsmui, Jacquie Kirk, Sarah Langley, Rebecca Meikle, Doug Wojick and Nikki Wright. Are you interested in joining our committee or submitting an article? Email us at office@mpitoronto.org.

Celebrating Excellence

On Thursday, March 4th, the MPI Toronto Chapter recognized our outstanding members at the sold-out awards gala held at the Fairmont Royal York. 

Congratulations to all of the nominees and winners!

Recruiter of the Year

Rita Plaskett, CMP, CMM, AGENDUM

New Member of the Year

Nominees:
Amanda Babcock, International Centre
Jodi Spivak, CMP, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
Paula Spizzirri, Carlson Marketing

Winner: Jodi Spivak, CMP, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute

Outstanding Volunteer of the Year

Nominees:
Jessica Ambrose, Elastic Communications & Events Inc.
Wendy Baker, The Source
Bori Csillag, Hilton Toronto
Heather Dahmer, Freelance Events Specialist
Marcelo DeOliveira, Hard Rock Café  Toronto
LeeAnne Leckie, CMP, International Centre
Geoff Mak, Allstream Centre/Direct Energy Centre/Exhibition Place
Paula Spizzirri, Carlson Marketing
Angela Visconti, Toronto Marriott Eaton Centre

Winner: Geoff Mak, Allstream Centre/Direct Energy Centre/Exhibition Place

Planner Member of the Year 

Nominees:
Wendy Baker, The Source
Leanne Hay, CMP, MaXvantage
Francine Miller, CMP, Scotia Capital
Robin Paisley, Meetings & Travel Group

Winner: Leanne Hay, CMP, MaXvantage

Supplier Members of the Year

Nominees:
Robert Babcock, AV-CANADA
Adam Bussell, CMP, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
Theresa Cragg-Gatto, CMP, Ottawa Tourism
Julie Holmen, Tourism Toronto
Kelly Shannon, Peller Estates Winery

Winners: Theresa Cragg Gatto, CMP, Ottawa Tourism and Kelly Shannon, Peller Estates Winery

President’s Award

Les Selby, CMP, CMM, Carlson Marketing

Les Selby (left), of Carlson Marketing, accepts the President's Award from
MPI Toronto Chapter 2009-2010 President, Bob Giorgini.
Photo: The Image Commission

MPI Toronto E-Newsletter - February 2010

The third edition of the MPI Toronto Chapter's new e-newsletter was sent to your inbox on Wednesday, February 10th...have you had a chance to check it out yet? Designed to be a supplement to our chapter magazine MEETING, the e-newsletter provides more timely information about what is going on inside our chapter. This month's features include the following:

Upcoming Events

MPI Toronto Chapter Awards Gala

Come celebrate the achievement of your peers at the MPI Toronto Chapter annual Awards Gala on Thursday, March 4, 2010 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel. This year's theme is "Style MPI" and you are encouraged to wear your most stylish blacks.

National Meetings Industry Day - April 15, 2010

Once again this year, all MPI chapters across Canada will celebrate National Meetings Industry Day (NMID) by planning a one-day event in their region.

2010 CMP Study Group Starts Soon!

Are you ready to take the next step in your professional development by becoming a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)? Need some help on your journey to achieving your designation? Then the CMP Study Group is just what you need to get you on your way!

ECOS Project Update - Lend a Helping Hand and Heart

MPI Toronto Chapter will be lending our helping hands in the Canada-wide ECOS Project (Events for Communities of Sustainability) and we need your Hands & Heart to make it a success! ECOS is a pilot project of MPI and all eight Canadian chapters have signed on to support stronger communities by participating in sustainable community projects.

MPI Toronto Student Club Buzz

MPI Toronto Chapter is pleased to announce the formation of the MPI Toronto Student Club, which provides an opportunity for students to connect with one another and get involved with the Chapter. The Student Club meetings, which are held on the third Thursday of every other month, resemble the MPI structure and provide information relevant to what students want to know.

Where Bold Meets Business

MeetDifferent
February 20 - 23, 2010
Cancun, Mexico

European Meetings & Events Conference

February 28 - March 2, 2010
Malaga, Spain

Save the date: MPI's World Education Congress

July 24 - 27, 2010
Vancouver, British Columbia

Member Connection

MPI Toronto Chapter Holiday Gala Fundraising Success

On Thursday, December 3, 2009, an enthusiastic crowd of 425 attendees at the annual MPI Toronto Chapter's Holiday Gala held at the International Centre kindly donated over $21,000 in support of two Chapter initiatives: the Education Reserve Fund (ERF) and our charity of choice - Breakfast with Santa.

January Monthly Meeting - Rules and Tools of Social Media

MPI Toronto charged into the New Year determined to tackle the mind boggling topic of social media. Helping us to see the light was our keynote speaker, Amber MacArthur, a well-known web consultant and a leading voice of the social media generation. The Hilton Toronto provided elegant space for both the Professional Development (PD) session and Monthly Meeting dinner on Thursday, January 7, 2010.

February Monthly Meeting & Professional Development

MPI Toronto's day of professional development with Daphne J. Meyers was a double-barrelled hit of education, interaction and fun. Hosted at the Intercontinental Toronto Centre, Meyers has to be one of the most knowledgeable and hilariously entertaining trainer speakers on the circuit!

MPI Toronto Mentorship Program

MPI Toronto launched its mentoring program last month. With one pairing of mentor and mentee and a few other mentors already signed up, we are looking to spread the word and encourage both mentors and mentees to come forward. For those of you who have been lucky enough to either have been mentored or have been a mentor, you know the win/win benefits of this relationship.

Connect with MPI Toronto Chapter on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter

 

Committee Corner

Connecting the Dots at the All Team Meeting

The Radisson Admiral Hotel was the setting for this year's second All Team Meeting, which was themed "Connecting the Dots". The evening kicked off with stories of inspirational leadership from Lifetime Member Duff Shaw and former Chapter President, Alice Parnis.

Save the Date! Volunteer Recognition Event - April 21, 2010

Note: Event date has changed to May 12, 2010.

My MPI

Renew Your MPI Membership Online and Save 5%

MPI Global Training for Meetings and Business Events

As one of the delivery channels of the knowledge plan, MPI's Global Training will give meeting and event professionals access to education at every level of their career, from the basics of meeting operations and logistics up to the executive leadership level.

MPI Knowledge Exchange Career Development Webinars

Whether you're ready to move up the career ladder, trying to better position your business, or simply looking for strategies to get your ideas heard, MPI Knowledge Exchange Career Development Webinars empower meeting and business event professionals to take action on their big ideas.

2010 Certification in Meeting Management (CMM) Programs

The mission of the Certification in Meeting Management (CMM) program is to select, educate, and certify management-level meeting and event professionals. The focus of the certification is to provide continuing educational enhancements to the strategic decision-making ability of these leaders to manage and deliver exceptional meetings and events that drive organizational success.

MPI Member Referral Rewards Program

Share your passion for MPI by recruiting a new full-paying member, and receive a $25 credit towards your membership renewal.

ERF Scholarships

If you are interested in attending the World Education Congress in Vancouver, July 25-27, 2010, submit your application by the deadline.

Industry News

Business Events Industry Coalition of Canada

The Coalition has been making great strides since launching in the summer of 2009. We are now incorporated, have established formal bylaws, set up administrative support, and elected the following Board of Directors:

MPI FutureWatch 2010 Study Released

Each year, in partnership with American Express, MPI conducts a comprehensive survey of global meeting and event professionals, aimed at spotting trends and competitive factors that will shape the global industry in the coming year. FutureWatch2010 is the eighth edition of this one-of-a-kind study.

Convention Industry Council's Campaign "FACE TIME. It matters."

Have you heard about this grassroots industry campaign designed to promote the benefits of meeting face-to-face?

ISO to Develop Sustainable Event Standard

The Canadian ISO/PC 250 mirror committee is looking for planners and suppliers to share their industry expertise in the development of ISO 20121. While most of the work will take place via conference call in order to reduce travel costs and carbon emissions, there will be several opportunities to meet face-to-face with our international counterparts to discuss sustainability and help shape the future of the events industry. If interested, please email Wayne Perrin, Program Officer at the Standards Council of Canada, at wperrin@scc.ca.

Movers and Shakers

Streampoint Solutions has moved
AVW-TELAV has LEED-accredited AV professional on staff
Allstream Centre Wins First Design Award
Mariposa Cruises New Leisure Sales Manager
National Speakers Bureau honoured with 2009 Griner Award

Want to submit a news item for our April e-newsletter? Please send to office@mpitoronto.org.

Jan/Feb 2010 Olympics-themed issue of MEETING - now available online!

We are delighted to announce the January/February 2010 issue of MEETING is now available online!

Designed to supplement the print publication, the digital edition comes complete with the same great editorial content and visual appeal; plus convenient, interactive tools only available online.

Feature articles from this issue include:

• Ethics and the Olympics -- Vancouver Meeting Professionals Rise to the Challenge
• A World Audience -- Corporate Sponsorship at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games
• People, Planet, Profit - Is a 'Green' Olympics Possible?

You may access past issues of MEETING in our digital edition archives. Please remember to add noreply@naylorcampaign10.com to your safe-sender list to ensure you receive future e-mail notifications.

A big thank you to the following members of the Communications Committee who co-created this issue of MEETING: Geoff Mak (Chair), Wendy Baker, Pamela Brohm, Amanda Cormie, Bori Csillag, Christine Gruber, Kyle Tomlin, Doug Wojick, Sharon Worsley, Nikki Wright and Vicky Zeppa. Are you interested in joining our committee or submitting an article? Email us at office@mpitoronto.org.

Five Stories that Rocked Our Industry in 2009

Meeting professionals faced a lot of challenges in 2009: sagging economic indicators, hotel foreclosures, travel scares, (yikes!) attrition. But the year also saw the emergence of new social media possibilities, groundbreaking research and green technologies. One+ assessed reader feedback and its own research to create this list of the top five stories that rocked the industry in 2009. Read more...

Season's Greetings to MPI Toronto Chapter members and their families. See you in 2010!

MPI Toronto E-Newsletter - December 2009

The second edition of the MPI Toronto Chapter's new e-newsletter was sent to your inbox on Weduesday, December 9th...have you had a chance to check it out yet? Designed to be a supplement to our chapter magazine MEETING, the e-newsletter provides more timely information about what is going on inside our chapter. This month's features include the following:

Upcoming Events

Save the Date: January 7th Monthly Meeting

Social Networks are helping individuals and companies develop personal and professional relationships more than ever!

Take the Lead in 2010 at the All Team Meeting -- January 21

Take the lead in 2010 through volunteering on one of MPI Toronto Chapter's nine Committees.

MPI Global Training Course Schedule

Course schedule and scholarships now available.

Where Bold Meets Business

MeetDifferent
February 20 - 23, 2010
Cancun, Mexico

European Meetings & Events Conference

February 28 - March 2, 2010
Malaga, Spain

Member Connection

Call for Nominations

Interested in becoming more involved in MPI Toronto Chapter, either on the Board of Directors or as a Committee Chair?

MPI Toronto Mentorship Program

The Mentorship Program application forms are now online.

Sponsorship from the Trenches -- Professional Development Session Recap

Read more about MPI Toronto's October 20th professional development session at the Toronto Congress Centre.

November 5th, Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management -- November Monthly Meeting Recap

On Thursday, November 5th, over 100 industry professionals attended an informative session focusing on Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management.

Winter Chic 20th Annual MPI Holiday Gala Celebration: Sold Out and Fabulous!

The 20th Annual MPI Holiday Gala was an outstanding success, with over 400 guests in attendance!

Join MPI Toronto Chapter Groups on Facebook and LinkedIn

MPI Toronto Chapter has Groups on both Facebook and LinkedIn. Connect today!

       

Committee Corner

MPI Toronto Student Club

Thank you to those who attended the November 27th MPI Toronto Student Club meeting; it was a great success.

Focus on...

Awards and Recognition and Communication Committees.

My MPI

Renew Your MPI Membership Online and Save 5%

ERF Scholarships

An opportunity that is too good to miss.

MPI Canada Chapters Support Community with ECOS Project

MPI Toronto Chapter is pleased to announce our participation in the ECOS Project, an important new Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program being piloted in Canada, in partnership with all MPI Canada Chapters and sponsored by AVW-TELAV Audio Visual Solutions.

Canadian Economic Impact Study Update Released

MPI Foundation Research strengthens the business case for meetings and events.

MPI Member Referral Rewards Program

Share your passion for MPI by recruiting a new full-paying member, and receive a $25 credit towards your membership renewal.

Industry News

Industry Updates

IMEX launches new US show: IMEX America.
AVW-TELAV Vancouver wins 2009 BC Event Award.
The Ontario Hostelry Institute is now accepting nominations for the 2010 OHI Top 30 Under 30 Recognition Program.
Muskoka's Landmark Resort, Windermere House, is latest addition to EMA Marketing Portfolio.
Jennifer Wood of Convene Inc. launches FAMTripTV.com.
Web site provides Corporations and Meeting Planners with an innovative and secure Travel Document Management Service.
AVW-TELAV Official In-House A/V Provider at the London Convention Centre.

We welcome your feedback! Please email office@mpitoronto.org with any comments or suggestions.

Holiday Gala tickets now on sale and going fast!

20th Annual Holiday Gala
Thursday December 3rd
Conference Centre at the International Centre
6900 Airport Road, Mississauga

Cool is hot! And this year’s Holiday Gala promises to be one of the coolest (if not the hottest) event on the calendar.   This annual gala is one of our chapter’s most popular events.  It sells out, so buy your tickets or table today!  Register NOW.
  
With Winter Chic as the theme for this year’s event, be prepared to immerse yourself in a sleek and modern environment featuring tones of white, silver, ice blue and even a cool mist.

Plan on staying - Join us at the After Party Lounge with DJ music and plenty more opportunity to network!
         
Auctions
Join us as we showcase a wide array of tantalizing Silent and Live Auction items. Your thoughtful purchases will benefit two outstanding causes:  Breakfast with Santa Foundation and the Educational Reserve Fund (learn more about these great causes below).  It is not too late to donate to the Auctions.  Deadline extension:  November 30th, 2009 (note: your auction item will be included in our catalogue addendum if received by the new deadline).  Donation Form

Toy Drive
To further help Breakfast with Santa spread the season’s cheer, please bring a new unwrapped gift for a child. Any gift will be welcomed, but there’s a particular need for toys suitable for:
          •    10-15 year olds
          •    Newborn to 18 months
If you’re stuck for an idea, board games and gift cards (cinemas or book stores) are appropriate for a broad range of ages.
 
Accommodation
No need to rush home afterwards, as the Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel and Conference Centre is delighted to offer a limited number of rooms at a special $109.00 holiday rate! To access this offer call 1-800-325-3535 and ask for the MPI Holiday Gala special rate.

Breakfast with Santa Foundation
A non-profit charitable organization of volunteers who donate their time to organize and execute an event of fun and excitement for deserving children. Families referred by local women’s shelters, breakfast clubs, and Food Path are hosted to a hot breakfast. Games, songs, and entertainment follow the meal until Santa makes his grand entrance to the joyful cheers of the children. Santa mingles with the children where hugs are the order of the day! Each child is called upon by Santa himself to receive a special gift. BREAKFAST WITH SANTA has helped bring Christmas to approximately 5,000 children over 18 years and thousands of nutritious meals. Thanks to MPI Toronto Chapter’s continuing support, the Breakfast with Santa Foundation initiated a Summer School Holiday Breakfast Program in 2003. This project feeds children a nutritious breakfast throughout the week. Our ongoing efforts will help keep both valuable programs running.
 
Educational Reserve Fund
The MPI Toronto Chapter Educational Reserve Fund (ERF) is used to enhance the quality of chapter educational programming at monthly meetings, professional development sessions and the Toronto Education Conference. The ERF also provides a number of scholarships to the regional and international MPI conferences for Toronto Chapter members.We are still accepting  silent auction donations  - visit www.mpitoronto.org for the donation form or call  905-567-9591 for more information.

MEETING goes digital!

We are delighted to announce the November/December 2009 issue of MEETING is now available online!

Designed to supplement the print publication, the digital edition comes complete with the same great editorial content and visual appeal; plus new, interactive tools only available online.

Feature articles from this issue include:

• Face-to-Face Meetings are Still the Best for Building Relationships
• The Importance of Communication in Mentoring
• The Body Language of Listening

Please remember to add noreply@naylorcampaign10.com to your safe-sender list to ensure you receive future e-mail notifications.

We hope you enjoy this exclusive benefit!

A big thank you to the following members of the Communications Committee who co-created this issue of MEETING: Geoff Mak (Chair), Heather Dahmer, Sarah Langley, Patty MacPherson, Angelis Neckles, Doug Wojick, Sharon Worsley, Nikki Wright and Vicki Zeppa. Are you interested in joining our committee or submitting an article? Email us at office@mpitoronto.org.

Free MPI Webinar Series on H1N1

Responding to the needs of our member community, MPI has launched a 3-part webinar series on H1N1 pandemic. This is free for all members; non-members can attend for $40 USD.

This comprehensive program provides vital information on the H1N1 pandemic specifically in the context of the meeting and events industry. It begins this Friday, November 6, 2009. Please see the schedule below. We encourage you to attend as many of the webinars as you can.

11/6/2009 11:00 a.m. CST	The H1N1 Flu Pandemic: What Meeting Professionals Need to Know	Dr. Jonathan Spero
11/10/2009 11:00 a.m. CST	Be Prepared, Not Panicked (Or Complacent):  A Swine Flu Update	Dennis Petroskey
11/17/2009 11:00 a.m. CST	Getting your H1N1 Preparedness Plan to the C-level	Julia Silvers

To register for the webinars, please click here.

For more information on the H1N1 virus and the meetings and events industry, please click here.

MPI adds Global Training Centre at Ryerson University

Bruce MacMillan, President and CEO of MPI, was in town yesterday to announce the addition of Ryerson University as the newest location for an MPI Global Training Center. An integral part of MPI’s Global Training, the Centers will deliver elevated content on a local level for meeting and business event professionals. Over the next two years, MPI anticipates partnering with at least 14 – 15 educational institutions worldwide similar to Canada’s widely respected Ryerson University.

Read more here.

MEETING September/October 2009 issue

As incoming Director of Communications, it is my pleasure to kick off the new year with the September/October issue of MEETING.  I would like to personally thank the outgoing Committee Director, Brenda Carter and Chair, Andrew Horberry for doing such a fabulous job with the publication in 2008/2009. You truly raised the bar and we look forward to carrying on the torch in the coming year. The Communications Committee is now chaired by Geoff Mak, and we've been busy over the past few months working on the next issue. New members are always welcome! We need writers, editors and people with great ideas...not just for MEETING, but also for our new e-Newsletter (launching in October), public relations and our online presence (website, blog, Facebook & LinkedIn). The next committee meeting will be on Tuesday, September 22nd...the All Teams Meeting, where you can "shop" around all of the chapter committees in one evening (venue TBD).

A big thank you also to all of this issue's contributors: Diane Wolak, Brenda Carter, Sharon Worsley, Pamela Brohm, Alice Parnis, Sandi Smith-Barrett, Dave Burnett, and last but certainly not least, Nikki Wright. We would love to hear member feedback, either as a comment to this blog post or directly via email to office@mpitoronto.org. If you are interested in submitting an article to MEETING or have a topic that you would like to see covered in a future issue, please don't hesitate to contact us as well.

I would like to enthusiastically encourage you to join in the conversation on Facebook and/or LinkedIn, as we now have an MPI Toronto Chapter group on both of these popular social networking sites. If you're still confused by all this web 2.0 chatter, don't worry...you're not alone! Although I've been on Facebook for over two years, I only joined LinkedIn about a month ago and I'm still learning how to navigate the site. Thanks to Communication Committee member Bori Csillag for putting together our Social Media Primer, which can be found on our home page or by clicking here. It provides a good overview of both sites, including how to sign up and find/join the MPI Toronto Chapter groups.

One last thing: I mentioned in my column that a digital version of MEETING would be launching this month. It will actually go live in conjunction with the November/December issue, so please stay tuned!

Until next time...happy reading!

Behind every great member……

We all know the phrase…“Behind every great man there’s a great woman”. Taking it to the next level… who is your great supporter in your professional life? We all know what it takes to be an active and engaged member of any association or a successful business owner or employee….and we also know we can’t do it without a strong support system – who is your supporter?  Is it someone at home, work or a friend?

Whether a spouse, a partner, children, a parent, a colleague or an employer they all surround and encourage us everyday, whether we admit it or not. We’ve all got someone.  Who heads up your support system? 

Let’s see how big our circle of supporters really is.  Who are my supporters?  My two sons…Marco & Nicolas!!  

Bob Giorgini

TEC - Vision for the Future!!

Congratulations to our Special Education Project Committee for bringing together the most successful TEC our chapter has ever seen - WELL DONE!!  Leanne Hay, Julie Holmen and the entire team did a great job with the fantastic line up of both educational and inspirational speakers they brought together.

Beginning with wise words on business, to things our members need to know about; working together, safety, human equity, technology & communications to branding ourselves by being creative. In addition to the great work the committee....thank you to Niagara Falls and our entire group of sponsorship partners - thank you!!

Bob Giorgini

National Meetings Industry Day - Key Messages

Yesterday, over 350 meeting professionals gathered at the Westin Harbour Castle Hotel in Toronto for National Meetings Industry Day. This year's theme People Power - Harnessing collective knowledge for economic success, allowed panelists and the audience to explore the opportunities and challenges of the current economic climate and the need to ensure that the industry message of the value of meetings is being heard by government, media and the general public.

The key points raised were:

• Metrics are essential. Meeting professionals must demonstrate to their companies and clients the value of meetings to the organization. Demonstrating the value (ROI) that meetings contribute to an organization's business objectives and bottom line is essential.
• Meetings Do Mean Business.  Government, media and the general public need to understand the economic impact of meetings and events. In Canada, we are fortunate that the MPI Canadian Economic Impact Study is available as a resource to us to demonstrate that economic value. We need to do a better job of communicating that message.
• We are in this together. National Meetings Industry Day - Toronto was supported by seven of the major industry associations. This speaks volumes. Now is the time for a collective voice, and collective action.
• Take Charge of the Future. In the US, they have developed policy guidelines for meetings. Leaders from key organizations representing the meetings, events and incentive travel industries united to issue guidelines on acceptable business travel practices to companies that have received emergency government lending. The guidelines, built upon existing corporate best practices, are designed to ensure transparency and accountability and protect the one million American jobs supported by corporate meetings and events.The standards support President Obama's recent call for the boards of directors of companies that have received emergency government lending to develop guidelines on conferences, events and employee recognition programs. (excerpt from https://www.mpiweb.org/cms/mpiweb/MPIcontent.aspx?id=23566)
• We Must Change Perceptions. How do we define this industry and what we do? The language we use to define our businesses and our industry is important. Think about your 30-second elevator conversation - Do you define the meetings and events business and your role in it? Do you explain how important meetings and events are to business performance?

If you attended National Meetings Industry Day we would love to hear your thoughts on the discussion. If you didn't attend and have an opinion, we'd also love to hear from you.

Nikki

A Community Celebrates

On March 5, MPI Toronto recognized some of the outstanding contributors to the meetings industry. It is from the support of our industry's community that individual success and achievement becomes possible. In turn the individual nourishes the community with their contributions of leadership, passion, commitment, dedication and innovation.

Congratulations to all the nominees and award recipients.

Norm Neill Student of the Year Award Nominees:
Danyelle MacCulloch, George Brown College
Rebecca Meikle, Ryerson University
Sandy Yong, Ryerson University
Norm Neil Student of the Year Award Recipient - Danyelle MacCulloch, George Brown College

Recruiter of the Year Award Recipient
Robbie Bishop, Le Royal Meridien King Edward Hotel

New Member of the Year Award Award Nominees:
Paul Alves, Caesars Windsor
Danyelle MacCulloch, George Brown College
Michael Marmur, Special Event Photography
Nikki Sayers, Ontario Bar Association
New Member of the Year Award Award Recipients - Paul Alves, Caesars Windsor and Nikki Sayers, Ontario Bar Association

Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award Nominees:
Lindsey Bryce, Deloitte
Dianna Di Manno, CMP Toronto Congress Centre
Andrew Horberry, CMP, Imagination
Andrew Walker, York University
Andrea Wallace, Meetings & Incentive Travel
Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award Award Recipients - Dianna Di Manno, CMP Toronto Congress Centre and Andrew Walker, York University

Supplier of the Year Nominees:
David Dugas, DE Systems
Robert Giorgini, London Convention Centre
Kelly Shannon, Peller Estates Winery & Hillebrand Winery
Supplier of the Year Award Recipient - Robert Giorgini, London Convention Centre

Planner of the Year Award Nominees:
Brenda Carter, CMP, KPMG MSLP
Leanne Hay, CMP, Amex Canada Inc.
Patty MacPherson, CMP, JPDL Toronto
Planner of the Year Award Recipient - Brenda Carter, CMP, KPMG MSLP

President’s Award Recipient
Doug Bolger, L(earn)2

MPI Toronto thanks each of you for your contributions to the industry and to MPI.

Nikki Wright

Community

Last night at MPI Toronto Chapter's 30th Anniversary Celebration we were reminded of the community to which we belong. Throughout the evening, the presentations were peppered with references to our MPI community and the power of human connections.

As meeting professionals we are community builders - we lay the foundation stones at meetings for community members to come together, to dialogue and generate future outlooks within our respective industries, corporations, associations or social causes. We seek ways for individuals to interact and generate new ideas, to network and strengthen connections, to contribute to build better organizations.

For those of you also attended WEC in Las Vegas, the power of community building was demonstrated during The Drum Café at the Opening Session. The power of the drum… drawing us back to the power of tribal rhythm. We all have a role to play - we give and receive from each other in the moment. We are linked and in coming together, we are able to create great things.

Our MPI community is one in which we all have a part to play. Each individual's role is as great or as small as one may choose - but none is less or more important than the other. At the beginning of last night's event, the past and the future of MPI Toronto met on stage - past presidents and new members. Flash Back, Flash Forward and I am reminded of the importance of the present moment. The present where we experience the 'aha'. The present where we see ourselves linked to the past and to the future. The present in which we are active participants in our community. Each of us has a role to play.

Our Chapter President Suzanne Forster encouraged us to get engaged in our community. In fact, engagement is her theme for the year. For each of us the way we will be engaged is different, but we are all part of the community. Whether a village elder or someone who has just joined, each of us has a role to play.

I look forward to your comments and ideas.

Nikki

 

Toronto Chapter CSR Task Force

Originally formed in November, 2007 and called the Green Task Force, our two main objectives were to assess the chapter's current environmental performance and make recommendations for improvement. As Chair of the GTF, I worked closely with our 2007/2008 VP of Communications, Natalia Weidner, and four other members of our chapter to implement our Action Plan, which consisted of five steps:

1. Adopt Chapter Environmental Policy Statement

2. Learn from others, including industry leaders and MPI Canada Inter-chapter Green Task Force

3. Conduct audit of chapter activities

4. Lead by example

5. Facilitate "greening" of our Chapter and members

In June, we presented our chapter report card to 2007/2008 Board of Directors, which was based on existing industry research and the results of our MPI Toronto Chapter audit.  The resulting recommendations for improvement were structured into three key areas:

Green Office - Best Practices for day to day activities of the MPI Toronto Office, Board of Directors and all Committees. We included a Best Practices Checklist.

Green Communications - Integrated into Chapter Marketing/Communications Plan, applicable to Publications (MEETING magazine), Public Relations (mpitoronto.org and media releases), Sponsorship (RFP), New Member Recruitment and all Chapter events.

Green Meetings - Best Practices for all Chapter events organized by the following committees: Monthly Meetings, Professional Development, Special Events, Special Education Projects, Awards & Recognition and Member Care/Recruitment. Again, we included a Best Practices Checklist as a guideline.

We also recommended that the Task Force remains in place for 2008/2009 (under the direction of the 2008/2009 VP of Communications, Catherine Paull) and oversees the implementation of these recommendations directly with each Committee Chair and provide customized solutions as required. We will also conduct a benchmark study at end of the 2008/2009 board year to determine progress and next steps.

In keeping with the mission and vision of MPI International, the Green Task Force was recently renamed the CSR Task Force. Although our recommendations are clearly leaning towards the environmental side of Corporate Social Responsibility (the area in which our chapter has the greatest opportunity for improvement), the social component cannot be ignored, and so we'll also look at ways to improve our performance in this regard as well over the coming year.

We are still looking for a few dedicated members to join our team, so if you are interested please contact Nikki at office@mpitoronto.org. We look forward to working with all of the committees in the coming year, and welcome your comments/feedback. Stay tuned for more updates on our progress here on the MPI Toronto Chapter Blog, and make sure to check our our Corporate Social Responsibility Page on the chapter website for additional resources.

What Clique Do you Click With?

Recently the Chapter conducted a member survey and on the feedback, one of the items commented on is that the Chapter is cliquey. I think we can all relate to this comment. Do you remember the first MPI Toronto Chapter meeting you attended only to find yourself faced with a room of 150-200 people already formed into small groups chatting, laughing and networking while you stood and watched? This is reminiscent of those first days of high school or summer camp when we were teenagers feeling vulnerable. Nobody likes to feel like an outsider and we have all at one time or another experienced that.

By definition a clique is a close group of friends or coworkers with similar interests and goals, whom outsiders regard as excluding them.  (http://encarta.msn.com/encnet/features/dictionary/DictionaryResults.aspx?refid=1861597874)

I would argue that while cliques have a negative connotation, they are in fact impossible to prevent. As humans we are social beings, and we will naturally gravitate towards those with similar interests, who share our ideas and who we simply click with. I can tell you from experience that the cliques within our Chapter are not secret groups plotting about how they are going to keep you on the outside. They are in fact simply meetings industry members who have gotten to know one another through committee work, being on the Board, participating in an international conference or just over time through networking.

At the Chapter Management Form (CMF) on Saturday August 9 in Las Vegas at the WEC I heard an interesting idea. One of the other MPI Chapter’s is putting a positive spin on cliques – recognizing that this social phenomenon is impossible to stop so why not embrace it. Their philosophy is if you feel like an outsider, than you need to become part of the organization and become part of the clique – join MPI, join a committee, join the Board, get involved, there are many ways to do this. I would encourage you to get involved and soon you will find the clique that you click with.

(If you want to join one of our cliques visit www.mpitoronto.org for information on membership and volunteering.)