MPI Toronto Chapter Blog

Drumroll Please.....

Congratulations to Khadijah Hewitt!

Khadijah is the winner of a TEC registration package for submitting her Daring Story on the MPI Linkedin Discussion board.

In case you didn't get a chance to read her story, take a look here: 

My entire career has been filled with daring decisions. But one of the biggest to date was when I was in my third and final year of college for Radio & Television Broadcasting. During that final semester I realized that I had made a wrong choice; that I didn’t really want to go into the Media industry. It was not where I wanted to be. I wanted to plan. So before I was ready to graduate, I took on an extra course at school, Event Planning. This is where I met my mentor Rita Plaskett. She introduced me to the Event and Meeting Management program at George Brown and I took the leap and went back to school. At the same time I worked for an Audio Visual company where my Radio & Television background came in handy. I was learning about the industry from the supplier side. But when I was ready to move on, the connections that I had made helped me by introducing me to my current employer, Alysone Will of Absolute Conferences & Events Inc. I am now working at my dream job, and life couldn’t be better. Thank you to everyone who has helped me succeed and to find my place. I couldn’t have done it without you!

Once again, congratulations Khadijah! We can't wait to see you at the conference in June! Also, a big thank you to everyone else who shared their stories with us. It was a pleasure to hear about your daring pursuits.

For everyone else reading, who would like to join Khadijah, registration for the conference is filling up quickly. This is going to be a great year so click here to reserve your spot today!

Whats Your Daring Story?

Don't forget about our TEC 2012 contest! What is the most daring thing you have done during your career? Tell us about the biggest dare you have taken in business and you could win a free registration to the Toronto Education Conference in Niagara Falls, taking place on June 10 & 11, 2012.

Click here to head on over to the MPI Toronto Chapter page on LinkedIn and share your story today. We can't wait to hear from you!

Remember, stay daring and keep those stories coming!

Venue Spotlight: The Fallsview Casino Resort and Hilton Fallsview Hotel

Niagara's Convention Connection

Two Niagara icons: The Fallsview Casino Resort and the Hilton Hotel- have partnered together to create a premiere meeting and convention destination. All under one roof, both properties are connected by an indoor covered walkway to create Niagara's Convention Connection! The 2012 TEC is taking place at The Fallsview Casino Resort, so read on for all you need to know about this one-of-a-kind venue!

The Fallsview Casino Resort 

Gaming

The Fallsview Casino Resort is the largest and most elegant gaming facility in Canada. With a 200,000 square foot gaming floor the resort offers 3000 slot machines, 130 gaming tables, and an exciting poker room. The gaming floor is equivalent to the size of three football fields so it will definitely keep you busy!

Hotel and Amenities

In addition to the gaming area, the resort also features a CAA Four Diamond luxury hotel. Each of the 374 gorgeous rooms and suites offer a breathtaking view of Niagara Falls. Depending on which room you are in, you might see more of the Falls themselves, the city lights, or if you're lucky, both!

While you're at the resort, you can also indulge in 24 hour room service, a full service spa, swimming pool, and fitness centre, dozens of shops and restaurants, the Avalon Theatre and over 30,000 feet of meeting and convention space. 

Dining

If you weren't already impressed, The Fallsview offers 20 different restaurants on the resort. Yes, 20! With food ranging from Italian to Chinese, English pub style to coffee bistros, you can travel around the world while staying on the same resort. With all the amazing choices offered you are sure to find something that tickles your tastebuds. 

Shopping

For all the shoppers out there, the Galleria is a shopping and dining destination located within the resort. Without even having to step off the property you can access over 30 retailers and experience the unique speciality shops, local retailers, and national brands the Galleria Shops and Dining has to offer. The Galleria is open 365 days a year and stays open until midnight on weekends, which brings a whole new meaning to "shop til you drop!".

The Hilton Hotel and Suites Fallsview

The Hilton Fallsview is located in the heart of the entertainment and recreation district in Niagara Falls. The Hilton overlooks both the spectacular Canadian and American Falls and is conveniently attached to the Fallsview Casino Resort. 

The upscale hotel's premier amenities and entertainment offer the ultimate getaway experience featuring a brand new 53-storey all-suite tower with and guest rooms and suites tastefully furnished in fine European luxury. Designed with the guest's comfort and convenience in mind, many of the rooms are equipped with Jacuzzi tubs, flat screen TVs and fireplaces. 

The Hilton Fallsview also offers three unique restaurants to satisfy your dining needs. An amazing feature of this hotel is The Watermark Restaurant on the 33rd floor. If the floor to ceiling views of the Falls aren't enough, then the farm-to-table cuisine and extensive wine collection will be sure to create a lasting and memorable experience of your trip to Niagara. 

We hope you have enjoyed this virtual tour of our two main venues for the 2012 TEC: The Fallsview Casino Resort and The Hilton Fallsview.

Although the TEC will keep you busy for some of your time in Niagara, the amenities and activities offered by the Fallsview Casino and Hilton Fallsview are irresistable and we hope you allow yourself to indulge and enjoy your trip to the fullest.

Thanks for reading, and as always, stay daring!

 

Your Guide to Niagara Falls!

If you have never been to the Niagara area before or you need a quick refresher on what this amazing city has to offer, you're in the right place! Read on for TEC's Top Ten reasons to visit the Niagara Area.

1. The Falls!

Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic landmarks of Ontario and Canada as a whole. If you have never seen the great natural beauty of The Falls, they are truly something to be marvelled at. And, if you have, this powerful force of nature never gets old! 

2. Clifton Hill

If you're cutting back on vacation spending this year you can always come visit Clifton Hill and pretend you're in Vegas! The fun, busy atmosphere, flashing neon lights, and strange museums and attractions will make you feel like you've just stepped onto the Las Vegas Strip

3. The Niagara Culinary Trail

For all you foodies out there (and really, who isn't one in the hospitality industry?) the Niagara Region is home to some of the best food out there! The rich agriculture of the region combined with the culinary excellence of local farm to table restaurants will satisfy even the most discerning of tastes. Click here to learn more!

4. The War of 1812 Bicentennial 

The Niagara Region is home to some of Canada's richest historical culture. Many of the most significant battles between Canada and the United States were battled during The War of 1812 in Niagara. This year celebrates the 200th anniversary of the war so historical reinactments will be in full effect and are definitely a sight to see!

5. Wine

There are over 60 wineries in the Niagara Region. Need I say more?

6. Casinos

With two amazing casinos in Niagara Falls: Casino Niagara and the Fallsview Casino (the venue of the TEC!) you can experience an exciting night out. Remember the Vegas fantasy? Live it out on the blackjack tables. Who knows, maybe you'll win enough to pay for your trip!

7. The Shaw Festival

From April to November The Shaw Festival Theatre produces wonderful plays in four gorgeous theatres in the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. With multiple shows playing most weekends, it's easy to squeeze in a quick play on your visit to the region.

8. Canada's Golf Capital

A little known fact about Niagara is that it is home to 48 golf courses, creating the greatest concentration of golf facilities in one region, anywhere in Canada. June is a great month for golfing so lets strap on those spikes! Fore!

9. Nature Exhibits

If you are a nature lover Niagara Falls has a Butterfly Conservatory and Bird Kingdom. Both attractions are great for getting up close and personal with the animals in an almost-natural habitat.

10. Shopping

Last, but certainly not least, is shopping! Just five minutes away from the Fallsview Casino, the Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls is your one stop shop for amazing brands like J.Crew, Coach, and Saks Fifth, at amazing prices! An excellent place to spend your casino winnings!

Although you will be nice and busy during the Toronto Education Conference, take in some of great attractions that Niagara Falls has to offer. You will certainly be glad you did! 

Thanks for reading and stay daring!

We Dare You...

We dare you to tell us your daring story!

Did you ever do something during your professional career where you thought “this could go very good or it could go very bad” and did it anyway? We want to hear about one of your leaps of faith that you took in your career! Whether you succeeded or failed, or whether it was something big or small, we want your story!

Please post your story in 250 words or less to MPI Toronto Chapter Group on LinkedIn and we will draw one of the names from all of the entries to win a free registration to the Toronto Education Congress in Niagara Falls, taking place on June 10 & 11, 2012. Please place your name, company on your submission. Limit 1 entry per person. Contest entries must be received by Friday, April 13th to win. Check out some of the stories on Linked In at the MPI Toronto Chapter Group!

Dare to Connect: Top 3 Tips for Building Better Connections

Dare to Connect!

If you are not already aware, the theme for the 2012 Toronto Education Conference is Dare to Connect! Although we have all heard the old saying, "Its not what you know, its who you know," studies have actually shown that 15% of your success comes from your skills and knowledge, while 85% comes from your ability to connect with others and gain their trust and respect. 

Like any other skill, networking is something that takes time and practice to master. Whether you are a seasoned pro or on the shy side, these 3 tips will help you to develop your social skills and build a wide network of connections.

#1: Listen and Learn 

Networking can sometimes seem like a scripted business transaction that goes a little something like this: "Introduce yourself, tell the other person what you do, exchange business cards, and walk away". Although you have gained a new business card to add to your rolodex, what have you really learned about that new contact? Not much!

Next time when you're meeting a new person focus on connecting on a human level, rather than just professionally. Ask questions about their work, but also ask about their interests, hobbies, and anything that helps you get to know that person better. Listen twice as much as you talk! If you have a tendency to be forgetful, take some time at the end of the evening to make a few notes about your new friend in a notebook or on the back of their card, so you can reference them later and have something to talk about when you see them again.

#2:  Be Present

Lately it seems that cellphones and other personal devices have become a permanent extension of our hands. While we are all feel the need to stay in touch with the office, our families, or our Twitter followers, try to avoid using your phone while having a conversation with another person. If you are texting away you are unable to give that person your full attention and leave that person feeling ignored and unvalued. 

Furthermore if you're having a conversation, don't continuously scan the room looking for someone more important to talk to. Although you might think the person you are talking to has nothing to offer you, you never know when you will need their help in the future. 

#3:  Follow up

Now that you have thought about utilizing the last 2 tips in your interactions with others, you will need to know what to do when that conversation is over. Hopefully you have exchanged contact information and you are able to send a quick email, or if you really want to wow them, a handwritten note letting them know how nice it was to meet them and that you look forward to seeing them again in the future.

Following up with a new contact is just as important as the initial meeting because the follow up will keep you front and center in their mind. They are less likely to forget about you and will appreciate the time you took to reconnect with them. 

 

Since you've heard our Top 3 Tips for Building Better Connections, we'd like hear from you! What are your techniques for meeting new people and creating those long lasting connections? Feel free to post your tips for others in the comments below!

Thanks for reading and as always, stay daring!

 

Dare To Connect: Toronto Education Conference 2012

MPI Members,

Welcome to your official source for all things TEC!

The 2012 TEC Committee is dedicated to bringing you all the up-to-date information you need to stay current with this year's Toronto Education Conference. Venue Highlights, Speaker Spotlights, and tons of other exciting stories will be featured here on a weekly basis so subscribe to this blog to stay in the loop. 

Since this is the first official post for the 2012 TEC, let's start with the need-to-knows:

Dare to Connect: TEC 2012
Date: June 10-11, 2012
Location: Fallsview Casino Resort. Niagara Falls, Ontario 
Registration: Early Bird (Before April 27)
                            Members and Students: $159 + HST
                            Non-Members: $189 + HST

                            Regular (After April 27)
                            Members and Students: $209 + HST
                            Non-Members: $239 + HST 

The TEC Committee has been hard at work to ensure Dare to Connect 2012 is an event you will not be able to resist. 

For more information on the 2012 TEC Schedule and this year's speakers, visit:  http://www.mpitoronto.org/index.php?page=tec

And as always, Stay Daring *

Big Events, Big Challenges, Big Rewards explored in the May/June issue of MEETING

We are pleased to announce that the  May/June 2010 digital edition of MEETING is now available for viewing!

The digital edition comes complete with the same great editorial content and visual appeal of the print ection, plus convenient and interactive tools only found online.

Feature articles from this issue include:

• Big Events, Big Challenges, Big Rewards
• People, Planet, Profit: Empowering Citizens
• Building Human Connections: TE C 2010 - Ideas, Relationships, Conversation

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 the following members of the MPI Toronto Chapter Communications Committee who co-created this issue of MEETING: Geoff Mak (Chair), Imran Ahmed, Becky Bays, Wendy Baker, Pamela Brohm, Tammy Carey, Amanda Cormier, Bori Csillag, Heather Dahmer, Julie Dunsmuir, Elysabeth Fischer, Christine Gruber, Jennifer Pilson, 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.

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

Reflecting on Earth Day

As you contemplate what this 40th anniversary of Earth Day means to you, remember that now more than ever we have the resources in place to change our attitudes toward—and use of—finite resources. In 1970, no one was discussing the future-facing effects of oil production, factory farming and climate change. No one was contemplating the need for corporations to assert responsibility for local communities and ecosystems.

Now, business professionals get education on CSR policy from their peers, their bosses and even their associations. Read more from the One+ PlusPoint blog post: Earth Day, Ash and WEC.

Happy Earth Day!

Volcanic Ash Impacts on International Meetings in Europe

The spread of the ash cloud from the volcanic eruption in Iceland has forced the cancellation of numerous meetings throughout Europe due to restrictions in air traffic. Conworld.net has contacted 159 European Convention Bureaus requesting updates from their destinations, and will be posting their responses online as soon as they are received.

MPI's One+ blog, PlusPoint, is also monitoring the story closely.

Here is a blog post from a fellow MPI member in the Netherlands about how to manage the impact on your event.

More analysis from M&IT magazine and MEETINGS: review.

Join our MPI Toronto Chapter LinkedIn group discussion as well to read about how our members are being impacted by this unprecedented situation.

An Open Letter to Hospitality Students

“Success seems to be connected with action. Successful people keep moving. They make mistakes, but they don't quit.” 

~Conrad Hilton, Hotelier (1887-1979)

Although geared towards an American audience, this article from Hotel Online is also relevant to our Toronto Chapter student members who are nearing the end of the second to last year in university or college. 

To all of our student members, best of luck with your exams!

WEC Vancouver 2010 - $399 Discounted Rate until April 23rd

Registration for the MPI World Education Congress July 24-27, 2010 is now open. Don't miss this opportunity to change the world!

Watch the WEC 2010 promo video 

As part of the MPI Cares Program, a continuation of providing extended value and discounted opportunity costs during these challenging economic times, MPI and MPI Cares is offering a limited time special registration rate for those that register early for WEC. A discounted conference registration rate of $399 USD is being extended to all Planners (MPI Member Planners and Non-MPI Member Planners). In addition, Suppliers (MPI Member Suppliers and Non-MPI Member Suppliers) can also register for the discounted rate of $399 USD if they register a Non-MPI Member Planner to attend WEC.

This is a limited time offer and after this two week discounted early registration promotion expires, MPI will offer the same registration rates to attend WEC as were offered last year!  Register early to get the best rates.

See Terms and Conditions below.

MPI Member - Planner $399 USD

Non-Member Planner $399 USD

MPI Member - Supplier $399 USD
(with qualified non-member planner registration)

Non-Member Supplier $399 USD
(with qualified non-member planner registration)

Limited Time Registration Offer Conditions:

• Faculty, Students and One Day passes are not eligible for the rate of $399.
• Promotional codes for the $399.00 rate expire at 12:01am on April 23, 2010.
• Any Non-Member Planner that registers for WEC is eligible to receive a one year MPI membership at a discounted rate of $250 USD.

We look forward to you joining us in Vancouver for WEC where big ideas will happen and where you’ll have the opportunity to create relationships that last a lifetime. Because change is now, and now is the time for your events to change the world.

For more details and to register, visit the WEC 2010 website.

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.

Are You on (Google) Alert?

As many of us experience, we are often overwhelmed by news and information, and it is increasingly difficult to filter information for what we really need to know. That's why I use Google Alerts - so a daily email can provide me with headlines from around the internet on my 'keywords' of interest. A quick scan, a few clicks on the salient articles and I'm informed without being overwhelmed.

I've discovered great pieces of information and commentary on the meetings industry. A few recent examples include:

• A great commentary by Mitchell Beer on the Shape of the Meetings Industry (http://meetingsnet.com/corporatemeetingsincentives/news/1013-meeting-industry-pressures/)
• Business Travel Outlook Survey Info (http://www.usatoday.com/travel/flights/2009-10-12-business-travel-outlook_N.htm)
• Announcement on Virtual Event Research (http://www.virtualedge.org/articles/index/view?id=1651552:Article:6709)

If you aren't already using Google Alerts (http://www.google.com/alerts) give it a try.

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.

Are we doing enough?

"It's neither quick nor easy to turn a giant ship. Yet, the meeting and event industry is coming to terms with its environmental impact and moving forward with globally significant changes".

Great article in this month's issue of ONE+ about our industry's environmental impact within the context of the upcoming United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) scheduled for December in Copenhagen.

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

Changes...

At the ASAE 2009 Conference in Toronto I heard Gary Hamel (http://www.garyhamel.com/) speak at the opening general session where he shared some best practices for management and business/organizational structure. To quote Hamel - "how do you thrive in a world that is shaken rather than stirred."  As we all know (and experience on a daily basis), the pace of change today is the fastest that it has ever been in history. The traditional change management model is flawed - it is reactive and often by the time change is being implemented it is too late or in response to a crisis. So how do we change the way we change? According to Hamel, becoming more adaptable involves four steps.

Get over denial. We need to start treating our beliefs as a hypothesis. Listen to the dissidents within our organizations. Challenge industry dogma. The longer we deny there is a need for change, the more expensive adaptation will become.

Create options for renewal. The case for change needs to be better than the case for the status quo.But to get to these ideas, individuals need to be able to express them and organizations need to be able to capture those ideas, and spend a  lot of time diverging before they converge on the idea(s) they will move forward with.

Realign talent and capital. We need to get better at moving resources to support new ideas. If we want to be truly innovative, we need to allow people time to do this and provide the resources to support new idea development.

Change your management principles.How do we build an adaptable/innovative organization? How do we create a workplace that inspires people to bring their best? We need to reinvent the management structures within our organizations. Creating workplaces that inspire people to bring their best.

If you were at the session and heard Gary Hamel speak, or if you have heard him before - let us know what you think about these ideas. Or if you are working in an organization that is adapting and thriving, share how. I look forward to your comments.

Nikki

Are you Conflict Free?

Did you know that when you become a member of MPI, you agree to abide by the Principles of Professionalism? (http://www.mpiweb.org/Archive/0/55.aspx) These principles include a statement about avoiding actions which are or could be perceived as a conflict of interest or for individual gain.

In addition, many organizations today have conflict-of-interest policies. Conflict of Interest policies are intended to ensure impartial decision-making by officers, directors and senior employees. Conflict of Interest policies typically require insiders to disclose their relationships and connections to suppliers seeking their business. 

So are you conflict free? Consider the following scenarios:

• You receive commissions on bookings - do you disclose that information to your client?
• Several destinations are under consideration for an incentive program you are planning - one of the destinations offers you a trip for you and your family if their destination is booked. What do you do?
• You serve on the Board of an industry association. During your term, you are asked to serve on the Board of another organization who has similar interests. What do you do?
• Your organization has issued an RFP for some upcoming events. Your best friend has started his own catering company. He asks you to write a letter of reference, or put in a good word when your organization considers the proposals. What do you do?
• You are a volunteer on a committee and they are looking for a service of a company that your husband happens to work for. When recommending that this company be considered do you disclose your relationship?
  

We'd love to hear from you on your conflict of interest experiences or policies and procedures. Post a comment.

Nikki

Unique Venue Ideas

Some of these may be a little too adventurous for your meeting or event, but look what's trending around the world in unique venues.

60 Unique Nightclubs and Bars - From Dancefloors Over Shark Aquariums to Pop-Up Clubs (CLUSTER)

(TREND HUNTER) Now, these are unique nightclubs I'd love to party at! These innovative clubbing hot spots around the world go far beyond the regular dance floor with cute servers behind the bar -- these unique nightclubs… [More]

And in our own back yard (Toronto) O.Noir has recently opened. (http://www.onoir.com/TO/frames.htm) If you've dined in the dark... let us know what you thought.

Nikki

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

How Low Will You Go?

What would you pay for a hotel room without a bed?

The going rate at San Diego's Rancho Bernardo Inn is $19 US. The current Survivor Promotion allows hotel guests to choose what amenities they are willing to pay for.

http://www.ranchobernardoinn.com/specials_packages.php

Survivor Package How Low Will You Go? Name your price with our Survivor Package!

Your Package Includes:

• Deluxe accommodations • Breakfast for two $219 per night* OR... • $199 without breakfast • $179 without honor bar • $159 without A/C or heat • $139 without pillows • $109 without sheets • $89 without lights • $59 without linens • $39 without toiletries • $19 without bed  (To receive updates on other promotions start following the GM on Twitter (http://twitter.com/GMGoneMad). Pay what you want schemes are not new (the most hyped being Radioheads pay-what-you-want album release last summer), but they are popping up more and more. http://www.caterersearch.com/Articles/2009/02/10/326102/ibis-launches-pay-what-you-want-scheme.html http://www.expatica.com/de/leisure/dining_cuisine/_Pay-what-you-think-it_s-worth_-scheme-pays-off-in-Germany-_11401.html http://www.springwise.com/food_beverage/pay-what-you-want_restaurants/ Are any planners out there that have tried a pay what you want for a conference registration fees? If so how did that work for your organization? and what was the feedback from attendees? As for the $19 hotel room without a bed - what do you think?

Canadian Meetings Industry Coalition

Earlier this week, a group of meetings industry professionals met to discuss how we can work together  to elevate the profile of the industry. As industry insiders, we understand the economic value of meetings and events, however those outside of our industry often fail to recognize their importance.

The meeting, to which all industry associations were invited to participate, lay the foundation for future meetings and activities. Doug Bolger, L(earn)2 facilitated the discussion and is encouraging feedback from the industry at large via the MPI Toronto's LinkedIn Group.

If you wish to add to the conversation, join the discussion on LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/groupAnswers?viewQuestions=&gid=1888685&forumID=3&sik=1243627403094

Watch for updates on the Coalition and planned activities in the near future.

Nikki

H1N1 Update

From the US Travel Association

1 May 2009 -- WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A(H1N1) virus. Today, international travel moves rapidly, with large numbers of individuals visiting various parts of the world. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community.

Influenza A(H1N1) has already been confirmed in many parts of the world. The focus now is on minimizing the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases and providing patients with appropriate medical care, rather than on stopping its spread internationally. Furthermore, although identifying the signs and symptoms of influenza in travellers can be an effective monitoring technique, it is not effective in reducing the spread of influenza as the virus can be transmitted from person to person before the onset of symptoms. Scientific research based on mathematical modelling indicates that restricting travel will be of limited or no benefit in stopping the spread of disease. Historical records of previous influenza pandemics, as well as experience with SARS, have validated this point.

Travellers can protect themselves and others by following simple recommendations related to travel aimed at preventing the spread of infection. Individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travellers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases and not only influenza A(H1N1).

Swine Flu and the Meetings Industry

Posted by Bruce MacMillan, CA on 4/27/2009 8:33:15 PM www.mpiweb.org

The rapidly developing global news story concerning the swine flu outbreak should be monitored closely by all meeting and event professionals. The situation is very fluid at moment, with new information, facts and misunderstandings emerging almost hourly as information gets gathered and analyzed. We want to help you stay connected to the facts as the evolve.

At this early stage in the outbreak, timely and accurate information is crucial to dealing with the torrent of information that could impact the professional lives and businesses of our members. To that end, today we participated in two conference calls with members of US Travel to structure key messages and primary channels of communication for this stage of the outbreak. Conversations and communications protocol are also being developed in Canada and Europe and I have personally reached out to our partners in Mexico.

It's no surprise that media around the world are capitalizing on this story, fuelling concerns beyond what the current facts suggest may be necessary at this time. Our ability to bring order to chaos as quickly as possible is vital and through industry and community collaboration, our response now can make a difference. The US Travel website will be a primary resource at this stage in the outbreak and the team at US Travel in collaboration with meeting industry organizations will be synthesizing relevant information to share across our industry and beyond. An MPI web resource has been created for our community with resource materials and will shortly have Web 2.0 connection tools for conversations. This has been updated with information from US Travel.

In conjunction with our industry partners around the world, we will continue to provide you and our chapters with timely and relevant information on a regular basis. We ask that you review it and share accordingly in order to ensure everyone has the most accurate information possible.

In the meantime, a key source of up-to-date information for you, your families/friends and your business is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Swine Flu resource.

Reflections on Earth Day

"Every day is Earth Day."
~Author Unknown

"We are called to assist the earth to heal her wounds and in the process heal our own -- indeed, to embrace the whole creation in all its diversity, beauty, and wonder"
~Wangari Maathai, Kenyan environmentalist, political activist, and 2004 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

"The Earth provides enough to satisfy every man's need but not every man's greed."
~Ghandi

"Take nothing but pictures. Leave nothing but footprints. Kill nothing but time."
~Motto of the Baltimore Grotto, a caving society

"There are no passengers on Spaceship Earth. We are all crew."
~Marshall McLuhan, 1964

"We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."
~Native American Proverb

"There is hope if people will begin to awaken that spiritual part of themselves, that heartfelt knowledge that we are caretakers of this planet."
~Brooke Medicine Eagle

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has."
~Margaret Mead

LINKS

Earth Day Canada
http://www.earthday.ca

One Million Acts of Green
http://green.cbc.ca

City of Toronto 2009 Community Clean up Day
http://www.toronto.ca/litter/clean-up/signup.htm

NEW! Green Meetings Portal, launched by GMIC today - Earth Day 2009
http://www.sustainablemeetingsportal.com

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

MPI Toronto on LinkedIn and FaceBook

Looking for more ways to connect to industry colleagues? We have started an MPI Toronto Group on LinkedIn and FaceBook.

LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=1888685)

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=82057840663) 

Tech Notes

I discovered a cool little web application this week that synchronizes your bookmarks between computers (and browsers).  If you're anything like me I have a home and office computer, plus I have two browsers that I flip between on both so my bookmark collection was getting a little out of hand.

Foxmarks (www.foxmarks.com) is a neat little web application that you can use to ensure you have access to all your bookmarks on all your computers. Plus you can sort, and have a back-up of your bookmarks in the event that you experience a browser or computer breakdown.

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

US Travel Association and MPI defend meetings, conferences and incentive travel

By now, you've probably heard about the recent development in Congress which is sending shockwaves throughout the meetings industry. If not, check your inbox for an email sent last week by Bruce MacMillan, MPI's president and CEO. For a quick overview of the situation, you may also want to check out the following blog post. Then visit www.keepamericameeting.com to sign the US Travel Association petition.

This was a key focus of MeetDifferent in Atlanta, with Christine Duffy, president and CEO of Maritz and former MPI Chairwoman, along with Roger Dow, president and CEO of the US Travel Association, discussing the industry coalition that has formed in response. Although happening south of the border, this issue affects us all.

LATEST NEWS - A new website has been launched by MPI for meeting professionals to connect to during this crisis: www.meetingindustrycrisiscenter.org. Included on the site is up-to-date information, resources such as the model meeting and event policy released in early February, a video summary of key information takeaways from the Opening General Session at MeetDifferent and more.

Spread the word: Meetings ARE the solution!

Everyone's all a twitter...

One of the takeaways for me at MeetDifferent last week (aside from the major focus on the economy and the need to demonstrate the value of meetings and events more than ever) was the extent that social networking tools are being used by meeting professionals. I've been on Facebook for two years now, but have yet to try LinkedIn (soon), and had no interest in Twitter. However, a fantastic session on Generation Y (born in 1979-1995) reminded me how important it is to at the very least understand some of these tools, regardless of whether or not you use them in your own life (and it's not just Gen Y who are tweets!)

I was reading through some of the blogs on mpiweb.org today, and came across a link to the following post Twitter for Meeting Planners: How to Make It Work for You.

Here's an excerpt:
"To really evaluate how (or whether) you can use Twitter to your advantage, first think of it for what it is at its core: a tool for communication. How important is communication in the meetings industry? You need to communicate with your attendees leading up to a program. You communicate with your attendees at the program. Your attendees communicate with one another at the program. Communication is key.

Then, the question becomes, is your communication system working effectively, or is there room for improvement? If so, then we come to the critical question: Is Twitter a viable means of communication for my audience?"  

MeetDifferent had it's own Twitter feed MD09 which was a flurry of activity, especially during the Opening General Session on Sunday. While many attendees were busy PDAing during the proceedings, they're weren't all just checking mail or Facebook; in fact, many of them were communicating with each other about the speakers and topics being discussed at that very moment. How might this new way of attendee communication change the way you plan and/or market your events?

On the topic of event marketing, Joan Eisenstodt (an advocate of social networking since the early days of the internet), cautions meeting professionals that because of all the additional electronic "noise", we have to work even harder to make our electronic communications stand out...which may mean taking some risks. Keep in mind that older members of your organization may not be as ready to adapt to online communities. The real challenge will be to balance cutting edge technology with more traditional educational and networking approaches.

Joan offers to following three tips to harness Web 2.0 tools to creater greater awareness of and involvement in your meetings:

1. Learn how to use some of the easier tools (i.e. wikis, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn) and begin integrating them into your communications.
2. Look how companies and associations have marketed their meetings using YouTube, and consider contacting the planner and asking them what worked/didn't work before experimenting with it yourself.
3. Keep at it!

Joan concludes by reminds us that "people need encouragement to use social networking and your audience probably already knows more than you think. Get them involved in developing and spreading the word electronically and your will build a stronger community and a greater following for your meetings". 

Connecting the Dots to Your Future

On Thursday February 5, those of you who were at MPI Toronto Chapter's Monthly Meeting know that Joan Eisenstodt's presentation sparked some lively conversation. Whether you think that the economic downturn spells disaster for the industry, or if you see this as an opportunity - your opinion is relevant and we need to hear from you on this issue.

There is a conversation going on at MPI Toronto's GroupSpace that was started as a follow up to Thursday's meeting. If you have an opinion - whether glass half full or half empty - I encourage you to join in this conversation.

http://www.mpiweb.org/cms/mpiweb/community/CommBoards.aspx?TopicId=4539

A salient point that comes out of this economic downturn is the reminder that we are all in this together.

Nikki

How much can going green save?

Meeting Strategies Worldwide, an award-winning Portland-based environmental firm specializing in the meetings industry, recently published a case study of the savings achieved by one of their client events by incorporating green best practices (all figures in USD):

• $11,600: Costs avoided by providing streamlined online schedulers, demo requests and maps and not pre-mailing name badges.

• 60%: Minimum waste diversion achieved through recycling and composting programs.

• 500,000: The number of plastic bottles avoided by providing water stations instead. Typical cost for this amount of water is estimated at $1.75 million. The environmental impact of this decision translated into savings of:

- 594,000 liters of water
- 36,900 kg of carbon dioxide
- 6,750 kg of oil
- 745,000 megajoules of energy

• $135,000: Cost saved by replacing non-sustainable railroad signage with a cardboard-based alternative that was recycled.

• 45%: Percentage of banner signage that will be reused for future events. Renewable and recyclable cardboard substrates were used for some signs, which were produced at 75% less cost that previously used substrates.

Pretty impressive, eh? As organizations tighten their belts, meeting and event planners would certainly increase their strategic value to the team if they were able to clearly articulate the cost benefits for going green, especially during tough economic times – it's all about demonstrating ROI. For more on the business case for greening your meeting, check out the book Simple Steps to Green Meetings and Events by the principles of Meetings Strategies Worldwide, Amy Spatrisano, CMP and Nancy J. Wilson, CMP.

A related article definitely worth reading is Why This Downturn Has a Green Lining, a blog post by Andrew Winston, co-author of Green to Gold. It provides some answers to the question that I put forward to fellow Toronto chapter members at the January 8th Monthly Meeting "Do you think this green thing will take a back seat now that money is tight?" More on the results of that roundtable discussion in my next post.

One List To Hang On the Wall

I don't know about you, but I make lists - things to do, books to read, movies to see, quotes I like, places I want to go. I try to review these lists periodically to see how my progress is coming along. That is not too say that everything I do is on a list to begin with - but the long term stuff makes it on. You know, thinks like you've always meant to read Thoreau's Walden but have never found the time... or watching The Godfather Part I and II back to back.

Making lists helps you see progress, it also helps you see change. Sometimes when I review a list I wonder what was I thinking... and so things come off the list and other things get added.

In part of my list review, I came across another list that I had stored in my list file, a list of 10 great words. The article that these words are from is by Jim Carroll, his article talks about adopting ten simple words to get you into the right frame of mind to take positive steps to manage change. The ten great words for innovation are:

1. Observe
2. Think
3. Change
4. Dare
5. Banish
6. Try
7. Empower
8. Question
9. Grow
10. Do

Regardless of the situation, these words have powerful meanings. This past weekend the MPI Toronto Chapter Board held their annual mid-year retreat. The MPI Toronto Chapter Board put these words in to action in dissecting the Chapter's progress, challenging our assumptions and realigning goals and activities for the rest of the year. As 2009 kicks off it is a great time for each of us to look at our businesses, our lives, our careers, whatever it is we need to examine. 

To read the whole article by Jim Carroll, visit http://www.jimcarroll.com/10s/10words.htm

Nikki

What's Allowed in Your Meeting Room?

As we begin to wind down the holiday season, for many of us it is a relief to see 2008 come to a close. A year of ups and downs in many business sectors we can look at 2009 with the optimism that a new year brings.

So what is in store for 2009? Your guess is as good as mine. What I do know is that technology is going to continue to change - new tools and gadgets, new ways of interaction on the internet, and new challenges for technophobes.

There was an interesting article in the January 2009 issue of Entrepreneur Magazine on whether technology gadgets like BlackBerrys and smartphones should be banned from meetings. For those interested, here's the link to the article: http://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine/entrepreneur/2009/january/199070.html . I know that I find it annoying at meetings when others are using their phones.

The MPI Toronto Chapter Board agreed no phones during their Board meetings. After all, we survived before we all had smart phones. I believe this has increased the level of involvement in the meetings because everyone is paying attention.

What's your company policy? Do you have one? Are your meetings gadget free? Post a comment if you have something to share.

Happy New Year!

Nikki

A Week of Gifts for the Meeting Professional

Seeing as it's the holiday season and everyone is busy buying gifts for family and friends, here are some gift ideas for the meeting professional.

• For the meeting professional who needs to know what time it is anywhere they are in the world check out this cool-design travel clock. http://www.momastore.org/museum/moma/ProductDisplay_World%20Time%20Clock_10451_10001_12266_-1_11536_11538_null__6J115
• Chocolate - is there anything better than a good piece of chocolate? We are lucky in Toronto there are some great chocolatiers - check out Soma, JS Bonbons, or your local chocolatier for a box of some delicious morsels.
• For the meeting professional who travels with their laptop (okay who doesn't) check out this mouse designed like a flip phone so it's compact for travel but easy to use. http://www.microsoft.com/hardware/mouseandkeyboard/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=112
• How many of us have stuffed our luggage so full of conference material, ahem shopping, and 'stuff' only to arrive at the airport to find out it's overweight - here's a handy device to save the embarrassment of unpacking your skivvies in the check-in line. http://shop.heys.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=xscale
• Resolution for a Healthy New Year on the horizon? Why not give a gift to support these efforts - a gym membership, organic or local fruit/vegetable delivery boxes (there are several companies that offer this service in the GTA), or a pedometer to track steps.  (The recommended number of steps is 10,000 a day - who knew!  http://www.active2010.ca/index.cfm?fa=english_challenge.usingyourpedometer). It sounds like a lot but I bet we'd all be surprised how many steps we take each day.
• Give a gift in someone's honour to charity. Never out of fashion, a gift of charity makes you and the recipient feel good. For the person who has everything or the hard to buy for this might be the perfect thing.
• And if some 'time off' is well deserved for the busy meeting professional, a day at the spa, or a weekend away or at home with no expectations will always be appreciated. 

What's on your gift list this year? Drop us a comment and share what you'd like to receive, what you're giving this year.

Nikki

People, Planet and Profit and the Quest for Sustainability: WEC 2008 Report

My last post talked about the UN Global Compact, and in the recently released WEC 2008 Sustainability Report, the connection is made between what it is that we do as meeting professionals and the broader goals of sustainability: "Meetings and events give practical meaning and reach to shared perspectives; they are opportunities for innovation, ideas and connections to values and principles, cultures and peoples globally.  Meeting professionals have a stunnning opportunity to touch the world through their specific medium--touch it, enhance it and change it for the benefit of our global community."

As part of MPI's sustainability journey, there has been a concerted effort to measure and report the results of the organization's CSR-related efforts at key events, starting with WEC 2008 in Montreal (as reported in the November/December 2007 issue of MEETING magazine and available on our chapter website's CSR resource page), MeetDifferent 2008 in Houston and now the WEC held this past August in Las Vegas.

I've attended numerous conference and events over the past year related to green meetings and sustainability in our industry, and time and again the issue of measurement has been raised by participants. Just like ROI, meeting professionals are eager to have tools at their disposal that help to quantify their greening initiatives and demonstrate the positive impact that it can have on their program and organization. The MeetGreen Calculator is one such tool (http://www.meetgreen.com/), and is used by MPI in this report; it was created by Meeting Strategies Worldwide, a third-party meeting management company based in Portland, OR. It tracks results over the following areas: destination, venue, accommodation, transportation, communications, food and beverage, exhibition services and the onsite office.

The report highlights the added benefit of working with a meeting venue (in this case, the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino) that already has a well established waste management program in place. The property doesn't even have recycling bins placed throughout the building since all of the sorting is conducted in the back of house. For WEC 2008, they were able to track the following results (for the convention centre only, excluding guest rooms and restaurants):

Cardboard: 9,282 lbs.

Aluminum: 315 lbs.

Plastic bottles: 326 lbs.

Glass: 600 lbs.

Carpet: 2,260 lbs.

Wood: 4,500 lbs.

Paper: 5,274 lbs.

Food: 14,400 lbs.

Signage: 5,722 lbs.

Carpet underlay: 969 lbs.

Total materials by weight, in pounds: 59,977

Total recycled, in pounds: 47,657

Total waste, in pounds: 12,320

Total % waste recycled or repurposed, in pounds: 80%

Total average materials per delegate, in pounds: 13.4

Total recycled per delegate, in pounds: 10.64

Total discarded per delegate, in pounds: 2.75

Having actual numbers like these really help to reinforce the importance of implementing sustainability initiatives within our meetings and events, since we clearly can make a significant difference by reducing our environmental and social impact. I encourage you to check out the full report not only to see our overall performance, but also to learn about some of the key initiatives that are becoming industry minimum guidelines and/or best practices. It is available for download at http://www.mpiweb.org/cms/mpiweb/mpicontent.aspx?id=20916

To Scent or Not to Scent…

I am sure many of us have noticed recently the increasing occurrence of scents being used in public spaces. From hotel lobbies, to retail outlets, scent marketing seems to be wafting into more and more places.

The theory is that scent is a strong trigger for memory and mood. The risk is you don't know what memories may be associated with a scent… what's pleasant for some may not be for others. The other risk is that you cause your customers to go into a sneezing fit or allergic response and leave.

I am surprised that in today's age of heightened allergies, marketers are taking this risk. From my limited research on this subject, I've learned that the scientific world has not concluded there is an allergy impact from air scents.

Recently, at a client board meeting in Montreal, I had a not so pleasant experience with a floral scent that was pumped into the meeting room about every hour. By the end of the first day of meetings, more than 1/2 the board had headaches, and one board member was sniffling and sneezing uncontrollably - having a severe allergic response to the smell. What was also interesting was it took us about 1/2 the day to figure out what was causing the problem - the scent was very subtle - until we realized it was there, and then it became overwhelming.

For those of us who attended the WEC in Las Vegas, you may also have noticed the scent in the lobby of THE Hotel - at times it was quite strong.

Scent marketing is a growing industry - and if you Google you will find all sorts of websites and blogs dedicated to the science of scent marketing. Here are just a few:

• http://www.scentmarketingblog.com/
• http://www.scentmarketing.org/
• http://www.economist.com/science/displaystory.cfm?story_id=10250329&CFID=3673016&CFTOKEN=80233598

I'd be interested in knowing if you have noticed an increase in aromas and what you think about it. Please post a comment. Or if you are a venue and you are using scent in your public spaces, what is the feedback from your customers?

Nikki