Intercom November/December 2014

1

Designed and Edited by Alvalyn Lundgren | Alvalyn Creative VOLUME 112 | November/December 2014

INTERCOM

Reno TahoeHigh Tech Indpendents

Shining Stars MPISCC Honors FourOutstanding Volunteers

Industry UpdateL.A. Tourism’s Market Outlook

PAGE 3

PAGE 12 PAGE 23 PAGE 18

Let’s Knock ItOut Of the Park!

MPISCC’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER IS ON DECK AT DODGER STADIUM

PAGE 6

2

Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter

DESIGN & EDITORIAL

Managing Editor/DesignerAlvalyn Lundgren | Alvalyn [email protected]

Contributing EditorLaura Bergersen, CMP

ContributorsKevin Kirby; Mariles Krok, CMP; Joe Martin, CMP; Audra Narakawa, CMP; Liz Placentini, CMP; and Megan Powers.

Photo Credits Cover: wikimedia; p. 4: Michelle Conant; pp.9-10, 16-18: Alvalyn Lundgren; pp. 11-13: Reno Tahoe CVA

INTERCOM is published six times a year by Meeting Professionals International–Southern California Chapter, a nonprofit professional association of meeting planners and suppliers. ©2014.

Article contributions are welcome. Article submissions and editorial guidelines requests should be sent to Alvalyn Lundgren, Managing Editor, at [email protected].

Advertising Information www.mpiscc.org/marketplace/ advertising-kit/

www.mpiscc.org275 East Hillcrest Drive, Suite 215

Thousand Oaks, CA 91360Phone: 805-449-9111

Fax: 805-557-1133

MPISCC MISSION STATEMENTMPISCC will be recognized as the leading local

membership community that is committed to shaping and defining the meetings and

event industry in Southern California.

Please direct advertising inquiries to:Joe Martin | BDI Events323-692-0802 [email protected]

To Advertise

IN THIS ISSUE

Insider Tips 4

MPISCC MONTHxMONTH 4

President’s Message 5

What Has MPI Done For You? 5 Member Testimonial

Coming Attraction MPISCC’S Annual Fundraiser Let’s Knock It Out of the Park! 6

International Update 7

State of the Chapter 8

Program Highlights 9 Special Olympics: The World Is Coming

Tech Talk 11 Assailing AV Aversion

Destination Spotlight 12 Reno Tahoe USA

Photo Album 16 Weekend Educational Summit

Industry Insights 18 L.A. Tourism’s Market Outlook

Pro Tips 21 How To Hire the Right Keynote Speaker

Volunteers MPISCC’s Shining Stars 23

New Member Spotlight 24

Welcome New Members 25

MPISCC Strategic Sponsors 26

INTERCOM112

Please direct sponsorship inquiries to:Shang Hur | HelmsBriscoe626-449-9111 [email protected]

To Become an MPI Strategic Partner

MPISCC Officers & Directors 2014-2015

PresidentBeverly Laing, CMP, CTC

Russell Harris Event Group818-217-0817

President ElectMariles Krok, CMP

Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board424-731-7781

Immediate Past PresidentDavid Anderson, CMP

Eventive Group 562-438-4834

Vice President of Communications Laura Bergersen, CMP

Laura B Events562-234-8819

Vice President of Education/ProgramsNicole Newman

Searchwide951-640-3745

Vice President of FinanceAmy Zelinsky, CMP

A to Z Special Events818-646-3445

Vice President of Leadership DevelopmentJoe Marcy, CMP

Westin Long Beach310-748-3075

Vice President of MembershipChristine HartmanIce Hat Creative310-601-0695

Directors

Awards and Recognition Shelley Grey, CMP

TCW213-244-0579

Fundraising Joe MartinBDI Events

323-692-0802

Marketing and Publications Jane Mato, CMP

Hilton Waikoloa Village310-523-3896

Member Care Akemi Shapiro

Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach 805-652-5118

Member Recruitment Michelle Conant

VP Limousine & Coaches714-556-6300

Monthly Programs Carlos Murillo

Harrah’s Rincon Resort760-751-3219

Professional Development Bryan Quinan, CMP

Milken Institute310-570-4638

Public Relations and MediaMeredith Delfosse

Crown Plaza Hotel Beverly Hills310-651-3251

Special Education Mai Hogan

Luxor & Excalibur Hotel & Casino702-262-4824

Special Events Michelle Thornton, CMP

NBCUniversal818-777-6044

Strategic Sponsorship Shang Hur

HelmsBriscoe626-460-8991

Executive DirectorDebbie Hawkins, CAE, CMP

805-449-9111

3

INTERCOM | Volume 112 | November/December 2014

Save the Date!

Annual FundraiserWednesday, November 12, 2014Stadium Club, Dodger Stadium

6:30pm - 10:30pm

Featuring:Networking • Entertainment

Backstage tours of Dodger Stadium • Dinner, drinks & fun!Silent auction filled with trip packages from around the US!

For more information on the fundraiser or any other upcoming events and monthly educational programs at MPISCC, visit www.mpiscc.org.

4


MPISCCMONTHxMONTH NOVEMBER 2014

MPISCC Annual FundraiserNovember 12, 2014 Stadium Club at Dodger Stadium

DECEMBER 2014

Holiday LuncheonDecember 2, 2014 | 11:00 a.m. Location TBA

After Five With MPIDecember 10, 2014 Various Locations around Southern California and Nevada

JANUARY 2015

Networking & ProgramJanuary 8, 2014 Location TBA

FEBRUARY 2015

State of the IndustryFebruary 10 & 11Locations TBA

MARCH 2015

Networking & ProgramJanuary 8, 2014 Location TBA

APRIL 2015

Southern California EdConApril 23-24 Costa Mesa Location Details TBA

FOR MPISCC MEMBERS

Insider T ps MPISCC is a volunteer-run organization, providing many opportunities for engagement, connection, and pro-fessional and personal growth. Our chapter has an out-standing reputation in the industry due to our volunteers. Responsibilities and time commitments vary, and there is a place for every member to become involved.

Members volunteer for a variety of reasons ranging from personal development, career development, relationship building, networking opportunities, serving the commu-nity, and giving back to an organization they believe in.

We hope that you will volunteer for at least one task, at least one time, at least one year. MPISCC is dedicated to doing its part to assure you of a satisfying and meaning-ful volunteer experience. To find out more, contact Joe Marcy, VP of Leadership Development, or visit www.mpiscc.org/membership/volunteer-opportunities/

MPISCC’s Connections Program is an opportunity for members to tap into the vast collective knowledge of our chapter, and to share that knowledge on an indi-vidual level. Meet with your peers on a one-on-one basis to accomplish a particular goal you’re striving to achieve, including:

Learn more about our chapter, or get insight about how to improve your networking;

Boost your knowledge of technology or emerging media;

Look for new ways to market your business or in-quire about a new niche in the industry.

If you have a unique skill or area of expertise, or are a long-time member of our chapter looking to share your years of experience, be a Connector!

To be matched as a Connector or a Connectee, fill out the online Connections Profile and we will get you matched up!

Are you interested in attending an MPISCC Board of Directors meeting? MPISCC members are wel-come to sit in on a monthly board meeting. This is a great way to gain insight into what our volunteer lead-ers do in their roles, and how they work together to accomplish monthly programs, educational goals, special events, and more. To arrange a visit, contact the MPISCC office: 805-449-9111 or [email protected].

PAGE 3

SEENThe ladies turned out for MPI After Five in Long Beach

5


PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

It is with great pride and my pleasure to provide you with another issue of Intercom to keep you updated and informed on chapter happenings. In case you didn’t know, most of the articles are written by our dedicated MPISCC volunteers.

I was reading a blog the other day about ways to network and to be recommended for a position if you are thinking of a career change. The writer mentioned “the best way to get recommended is to showcase your skills in a volunteer position.” By working on a project with a team of colleagues you exhibit your talents, enthusiasm and work ethic. You are not only building a relationship, but also enhancing your repu-tation. This person would not hesitate to either hire you or recommend you to his/her management. The writer further stated that companies tend to hire “recommended” individu-als because they stay longer at a job and have already proved themselves!

Don’t be afraid to use your personal interests and hobbies to connect with people you may not otherwise meet. If you

don’t put yourself out there, you won’t meet new people. So, use your networking time with the chapter to meet new people. Volunteer on a committee which promotes your talents and in no time you will see positive things happen.

As you may be aware, serving on the MPISCC board of direc-tors and/or a committee is purely on a volunteer basis. The commitment and passion our volunteers have for our Chapter and for the advancement of our industry is truly admirable. With a strong team in place and a balanced cross-section of planners and suppliers to represent all interests and needs, I feel we are truly blessed!

I look forward to your participation and feedback making this a highly productive year for us all. Please do not hesitate to reach out to the board. We would love to hear from you.

Beverly A Laing, CMP

MPISCC Chapter President

Russell Harris Event Group

EngagementTHROUGH

Involvement

What has

MPIdone for

YOU?To share your story, go to our homepage at www.mpiscc.org click on the form link, complete the form. and send it in.

I always wanted to sell a beautiful property in Hawaii. During WEC in Las Vegas, a friend and fellow MPI member, John Cruz, introduced me to his friend and fellow MPI member, Russ Kemble, who happened to work for the Hilton Waikoloa Village in Hawaii.

A few months later, a position became available to sell this lovely property while being based in LA. Because of the connections that were made through MPI, everything worked out perfectly.

Thank you MPI!

Jane Mato | Hilton Waikoloa Village

6


t’s that time once again! Don’t miss out on one of the largest and most popular MPISCC events of the year — our annual MPISCC Fundraiser! We

are excited to announce that this year’s event will take place on November 12 from 6:30–10:30 pm at the Stadium Club at Dodger Stadium! We couldn’t think of a better place than this iconic Los Angeles venue to knock our fundraising efforts out of the park.

The Top Five Reasons to not miss this event:

1) You can network with more than 200 colleagues from MPISCC and other industry associations in Southern California over delicious food and drink sponsored by Levy Catering and Dodger Stadium.

2) You can step up to the plate and bid on one (or more) of the incredible packages in the silent auction featuring hotel stays, attractions, leisure getaways, theme park tickets and more! We have packages from all over North America including Salt Lake City, Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach, Vancouver, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Palm Springs, Disney Destinations, Seattle and more!

3) You can experience a one-of-a-kind VIP behind-the- scenes tour of Dodger Stadium that includes access to the dugout and field, a look inside the exclusive Lexus Dugout Club where the team’s World Series trophies are on display, and the one-and-only Vin Scully Press Box!

4) You will enjoy live entertainment provided by Dash Entertainment and ballpark-themed games provided by Plan-It Interactive.

5) It’s for a good cause! Proceeds raised at the annual fundraiser benefit the educational programs and events produced by MPISCC. Plus! We are asking each attendee to help in our give back efforts to our local community by bring-ing canned goods for the Los Angeles Mission.

Register today for just $45 at mpiscc.org. Hurry! The early bird registration option ends on October 31!

Don’t forget to invite your friends and colleagues — it’s an all-industry invitation!

#knockitoutofthepark

COMING ATTRACTION

MPISCC ANNUAL FUNDRAISER

Wednesday, November 12, 20146:30-10:30 pmStadium Club at Dodger Stadium1000 Elysian Park Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012Cocktail Attire

Information & registration: www.mpiscc.org

7

INTERCOM | Volume 112 | November/December 2014Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter

We were very excited to have the opportunity to connect with

so many of our members at WEC 2014 in Minneapolis. The best part of that experience was hearing the tremendous feedback of those who attended regarding the educational content, quality of speakers, the FlashPoint sessions, and their over-all conference experience. WEC re-ceived a 95% satisfaction score for education content and a 98% overall satisfaction rating – our best yet! Re-member, the WEC experience isn’t over. You can still access the edu-cational content from WEC 2014 at www.mpiweb.org/wec and keep the ideas flowing. We are build-ing out an even stronger program for WEC 2015 in San Francisco and look forward to seeing you all there. Please encourage your colleagues, coworkers and industry friends to attend.

In September we hosted over 260 chapter leaders in Dallas who are ready to get their chapters moving forward. At this meeting, the MPI Foundation (MPIF) launched the Chairman’s Challenge 5K Plan and asks every

chapter to get engaged in giving back to your industry by hosting a non-cause 5K with your Chapter in March of 2015. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds will be returned to chapters to produce local educational program-ming and 75% will support the MPIF Chapter Grant Program. For more information about the Chairman’s Challenge visit: wwwmmpiweb.org/ foundation/chairmanschallenge.

The MPI Foundation also recently re-launched its Grants and Scholarships page and lists the many opportunities available for individual members and chapters: www.mpiweb.org/founda-tion/GrantsandScholarships

Your International Board of Directors is focused on the following priorities as we move through the year:

Professional Development: MPI is focused on being the first choice for professional career development pro-viding you with the knowledge and opportunities to advance your career. In support of this commitment, we have two new programs to discuss.

MPI and GBTA, together with support of our generous partners, Mexico

Tourism; Riviera Maya Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya are thrilled to be hosting the first onsite meeting of the enhanced CMM program in November 2014. This updated pro-gram promises to deliver one global standard of excellence that will bol-ster the business management skills of meeting and event professionals.

And, at WEC 2014 in Minneapolis, we were excited to launch the Health-care Meeting Compliance Certifi-cate (HMCC). This professional devel-opment course is designed for those meeting industry professionals who need a broad understanding of health-care regulatory topics.

Industry Voice: Our aim is to ensure that every member of MPI has the tools and information to effectively tell the story of the meeting and event industry in their own words. MPI’s Meetings Move Us Forward initiative and the Meetings Mean Business coalition, led by our industry partner US Travel Association, provide essen-tial resources in helping tell our story as the second-largest provider of US

LEADERSHIP

What’s going on at the highest level of volunteerism in MPI? The International Board of Directors creates opportunities for education, grants, scholarships, leadership development and service on a world-wide stage.by Kevin Kirby | Chairman, International Board of Directors

with Audra Narikawa | Board Member, International Board of Directors

Greetings Southern California!

continued on next page

International Update

8


8

GDP in the private marketplace. Visit www.mpiweb.org/moveforward to learn more.

MPI’s Meetings Move Us Forward ini-tiative and the Meetings Mean Busi-ness coalition are essential in helping tell our story as the second-largest provider of US GDP in the private mar-ketplace. Visit www.mpiweb.org/moveforward to access resources to tell the story.

Networking and Business Ex-changes: MPI wants to provide you with the best opportunities to network and conduct business by expanding our event strategy through programs like Market Square and Hosted Buyer and providing more opportunities for our Chapters to create meaningful connections with for their members.

Our meeting and event community is a dynamic force of professionals. We have an eye for talent and we know

those individuals who have elevated their performance and delivered far beyond expectations. I ask you to consider the following opportunities to recognize your peers and support your community:

RISE Awards Nominations: The RISE Awards — Recognizing Industry Success and Excellence — feature sevenannual awards in 3 categories organizational achievement, individual achievement, and community achievement. Recipients are recognized for innovation, global transferability, im-pact and influence. Please consider submitting a peer nomination for one of our RISE Award Categories. www.mpiweb.org/Community/Award-sAndRecognition/Overview. Nomi-nations for the 2015 RISE Awards will be accepted between October 31–December 12, 2014.

Apply to serve on an International Committee Position: MPI relies on its volunteers to assist with creating programs that members need. Nu-merous opportunities are available to serve at the international level. Not only will you build your career and increase your industry knowledge, but your time and expertise will help the meetings and events industry improve and grow as well. Application period for volunteer positions will be open on April 1, 2015 for committees that will begin on July 1, 2015.

MPI is, and always will be, a member-ship organization. Our members are at the center of every decision we make and initiative we launch. This is your organization and I, along with my fel-low board members, invite you get engaged and help us make the MPI experience a truly remarkable one.

We look forward to serving with you!

iBOD continued

STATE OF THE CHAPTERTalking points from the Sunday morning session at WES, presented by David Anderson, CMP, MPISCC Immediate Past President, and Mariles Krok, CMP, MPISCC President-Elect.

OUR MEMBERSHIP

Current membership: 60052% Planners48% Suppliers

New Member Orientation is being restructured.

OUR LEADERSHIP

25% of members volunteer with the chapter.Nominations process isbeing restructured.

Nominations for 2015-2016 Board of Directors begins in December 2014.

Service on the Board of Directors provides opportuni-ty to develop skills and knowl-edge beyond the job setting.

VALUE TO MEMBERS

MPISCC works to ensure that it remains valuable to our membership:

Chapter Needs AssessmentNon-member AttendanceSubscriber Memberships to other MPI chaptersMeetings Industry Advocacy

EDUCATION

Members are welcome to suggest ideas for monthly programs, WES, EdCon.

Monthly speakers are subject matter experts inside and out-side our industry.

Members are encouraged tosubmit leads for properties to host chapter events.

OUR FINANCES

MPISCC is exemplary in terms of fiscal position, with a healthy budget and healthy reserves.

MPISCC has a healthy 100% of its operating budget equivalent in reserve and exceeds the percentage recommended by MPI.

$50,000 was cut from the annual operating budget in less valuable and overburdened areas.

Advertising sales are down.

Advertising opportunities have been expanded to include more digital.

Members are encouraged to click on web site and email links to help support our advertisers.

9


TheWorld is coming!

by Deborah Shepard, CMP, CHSP

Get ready, SoCal! The 2015 Special Olympics World Games will be held in Los Angeles and surrounding com-munities from July 25–August 2, cre-ating an emotional, organizational, and financial impact that should impress everyone in the meetings and hospital-ity industry!

Speaking with our attendees at the August program hosted by the mag-nificent Sofitel Hotel Beverly Hills, Patrick McClenahan, President and CEO of the 2015 World Games, engaged and excited us with inspir-ing stories of people with intellectual disabilities who have overcome incred-ible adversity through the support, physical training, and healthy athletes programs organized through Special Olympics.

The Special Olympics World Games alternates every two years between summer and winter. This 9-day cele- bration of courage, determination and joy will be the largest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games. Los Angeles was named the host city during the Summer Games in Athens in September 2011.

The facts are staggering: 7,000 Spe-cial Olympics athletes from 177 nations; 30,000 volunteers; 3,000 coaches; and an estimated 500,000 spectators to see amazing competition in 26 different sports. The economic impact on our area is expected to reach $415 million!

Reflecting the intent of Eunice Ken-nedy Shriver, who founded Special Olympics in 1968, the inspirational Athlete Oath states, “Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

10


attempt,” and is repeated before ev-ery game by athletes of all ages and nationalities. Mrs. Shriver’s goal was

to create a world that is not domi-nated by those who are excluded, but by those who are included. At every level, the organization strives “to unite the world through sports in a celebra-tion of the abilities and accomplish-ments of people with intellectual dis-abilities.” Of the 200 million afflicted, well over 4 million have competed in 80,000 events worldwide, are twice as likely to be able to hold a job and to live independently.

Be part of the movement! MPISCC is planning a day at the Games to cheer on the athletes. As the event draws closer, be on the lookout for information on being one of our Fans in the Stands.

#TakeAStand: Join the social media campaign on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram leading up to and during the World Games 2015. Patrick and MPISCC are encouraging each of us to participate in ensuring the special athletes, coaches, visitors, press and local fans have a summer to remem-ber in Los Angeles…where dreams come true!

For more information about participa-tion, becoming a major sponsor, or to sponsor an athlete, volunteer, or invite a Global Messenger to speak, please visit www.la2015.org.

The World Is Coming! continued

1111

I took an informal poll of what the biggest challenges are for event professionals these days. The feed-back received revealed that AV budgeting is often

the last item in the event planning process, and plan-ners continue to be intimidated by the AV aspect of their shows. It’s a combination of planners not feeling comfortable with the technology and what elements are needed, and the (often) tremendous impact AV has on their budgets that makes for difficulty in trusting the en-tire process. In many cases, planners become compla-cent or are overwhelmed by the process, and stay with the same vendor out of fear or convenience. Here’s a direct quote from a senior-level planner to me: “I know I’m paying too much and I need to go out to bid, but I don’t have an RFP… and to be honest, I really don’t even know where to start.”

The Challenge

Often times planners don’t want to share their budgets because they fear the AV company will use it all (there are some who might), so they end up telling the sales representative “just tell me what I need and what it will cost.” One of the challenges with that approach is that there is more than one way to produce an event. You could be charged more just for the sake of charg-ing more, but it’s also important to remember that this each event might be different for a variety of reasons because of the venue or the number of attendees. For example, having plastic speakers on the floor through-out a room will provide a much different experience than speakers that are rigged overhead. It will be less expensive, but will it be worth the trade-off in quality? If attendees can’t hear the presenters, it will reflect poorly on everyone.

A Solution

What if AV pros had open and honest conversations with planners about what the technology does and spe-cifically why they need it? Why choose a rigged line-array speaker setup instead of speakers on the floor? Or why do you need a Screen-Pro-plus-switcher?

What if there was an intermediary to help planners form a realistic depiction of their AV needs, help them create realistic RFPs (which is helpful to the AV company as well), and help them obtain bids from a variety of quali-fied providers?

AVforPlanners.com is an online survey service intended to save planners time and money by giving them a central place to vet companies all in one location. It is the only industry resource of its kind. Its comprehensive survey walks through every aspect of AV that might be needed for all elements of a meeting. It asks the questions that AV companies end up asking the planner—questions that are often missing from initial RFPs.

Works for both sides

While created as a resource for planners, AVforPlanners is also great for AV suppliers. Its online directory listings provide opportunities for exposure to potential clients they might not have had access to otherwise. It can also help to eliminate the cryptic part of the process where the two sides hide information from each other.

Bridging the gap between AV companies and planners will also help everyone talk about more than just the bottom-line price. What is the planner trying to accom-plish with the show? What is most important to their attendees? To their sponsors? How can the planner make the show more successful? AVforPlanners intends to put the power with the planner and I think they are doing just that. They’re still developing the platform, so it will become more and more robust as time goes on. The RFP-Builder, which is worth its weight in gold ,is free. From there you can pay for other services, which are all in line with the goal—to make AV less intimidat-ing and more transparent for planners, and make them as comfortable with this part of the show as they are with catering.

Megan Powers is a marketing consultant with Powers of Marketing, and a former audio-visual professional. She is a member of MPI San Diego Chapter.

TECH TALK

ASSAILING AV AVERSION By Megan Powers | Powers of Marketing A tech liaison can help

both planners and audio-visual suppliers to boldly go where neither has comfortably gone before.


T he Nevada legislature recently held a special session to reallocate funds for tax incentives toward a planned 5 million square-foot “gigafactory” to be completed in 2017. The production center for Tesla’s lithium ion batteries is being built just 20 minutes

east of the metropolitan areas of Reno and Sparks, and will provide the electric car company the avenue it needs to begin producing more affordable vehicles and appealing to a broader market. This highly sought-after project will not only include investments, by Tesla, into the surrounding commu-

nities, but will also increase awareness of the Reno Tahoe area as an up-and-coming tech, business, and meetings market, according to Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority President and CEO Christopher Baum.

“The fact that five states wanted a $5 billion factory, and Tesla chose Reno, really does give people pause,” Baum recently told the Reno Gazette-Journal. Adding, “Tesla is a very powerful marketing tool. It gives us credibility that this is not a dying resort town, but a high-tech town that’s also a resort.”

DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT

by Rena Tahoe Convention & Visitors Authority

Reno Tahoe USAMeetings Industry Gets High-Tech Boost


12

13


HIGH TECH BOOM

A September Forbes.com article referenced three things that “Reno can expect from Tesla’s gigafactory”: new roads, additional hotels and restaurants, and lots of visitors. In addi-tion to the 6,500 jobs promised by Tesla, the largest project of its kind anywhere in the world will also produce additional demand throughout the number one industry in Nevada. Added business and leisure travel will lead to improvements of public areas, as well as convention hotels and high-traffic areas throughout Reno Tahoe. Tourism officials also believe the expected boost in visitation will enhance the travel expe-rience by increasing demand in air service, which could lead to more daily flights in and out of Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Along with Apple Inc.’s plans for a new, $1 billion data center, and the recently approved program to develop and test drones at Reno-Stead Airport, the high-tech boom around Reno Tahoe will have positive effects on business and meetings travelers on multiple levels.

Nevada is one of the top states for renewable energy sourc-es, and Tesla plans on utilizing a mix of geothermal, wind, and solar energy for all its energy needs. Plans for those renewable power sources have not been made public, but the thought of powering such a large facility exclusively with renewable energy creates its own opportunity for public tours, and has the potential to lure scientific and environ-ment-sympathetic conventions to the destination. Another remarkable advancement in renewable energy usage is not open for public tours, but the $9.7 million geothermal proj-ect at Reno’s Peppermill Resort Spa Casino is as impressive as it is sound to the resort’s bottom line. From hotel rooms to the outdoor pools, and from the casino to Spa Toscana, the entirety of the water and public spaces at the Peppermill

are heated by a geothermal well, 4,400 feet below the prop-erty. Believed to be the only hotel in the world with an onsite renewable energy source providing heating for the whole resort, the Peppermill was recently named the “Top Hotel in North America” by Expedia Elite. The Peppermill’s 106,000 sq. ft. of meeting space, of course, is also warmed by geo-thermal heat during the colder months in northern Nevada.

THE INDEPENDENTS

According to the RSCVA’s 2013 Visitor Profile Survey, 28 percent of respondents said they conducted business or went to a convention while visiting. That’s roughly 1.3 mil-lion people, by the organization’s estimates, which is much easier to digest when you consider that the region, of less than a half-million residents, contains more than 15,500 first-class hotel rooms and more than 1 million sq. ft. of meeting and convention space. Few major Reno Tahoe re-sorts bear the flags of nationally-recognized hotel chains, and officials say that is as much an advantage as it is a dis-advantage. While the destination does not have nationwide marketing teams directing business in its direction, the de-cision-makers at each resort are on location, streamlining negotiations with group meetings and convention planners. The RSCVA recently highlighted this feature, which they say makes doing business in Reno Tahoe easier than many other destinations, with an ad campaign called “Reno De-clares its Independents,” showing the faces of CEOs and general managers from prominent Reno Tahoe convention properties.

The competition between the “independents” is palpable, and it’s evidenced in seemingly continual improvements from the crystal blue waters of North Lake Tahoe to the event and shopping districts of Sparks. Reno’s newest non-

Peppermill Resort has 106,000 sq. ft. of meeting space


14


14

gaming, smoke-free hotel, the only one of its kind in down-town, Whitney Peak Hotel opened in May 2014. Located near the famous Reno Arch, Whitney Peak has a smaller convention area than surrounding resorts, but lends itself to travelers who want easy access to the city. The property also has an outdoor entertainment aspect, for travelers who want to test their limits, or hold team-building functions, in a safe environment. Whitney Peak houses an indoor boulder-ing park, as well as a 164’ rock-climbing wall on the outside of the building, overlooking Virginia St. and downtown Reno.

Grand Sierra Resort is under new ownership, and added the 25,000 square-foot, $15 million LEX Nightclub to its arsenal during the summer of 2014. “GSR” has more than 200,000 sq. ft. of meeting and convention space, and has performed more than $40 million in renovations to its hotel rooms, restaurants, public areas and meeting space. JA Nugget in Sparks, also under new ownership, is currently undergoing a $50 million improvement project to similar areas of the resort, and has added a new Gilley’s Dance Hall, BBQ and Saloon. In Lake Tahoe, Hyatt Regency has completed a $20 million improvement project, and Cal Neva Resort, Spa and Casino has plans to re-open in 2015 upon completion of a top-to-bottom renovation.

Officials with RSCVA say Reno Tahoe makes sense from an economic standpoint for meeting planners, and that the variety of outdoor activities, a special events season of mon-umental proportions, live entertainment, and world-class spas provide an opportunity for meetings attendees to add a personal day at the beginning or end of scheduled business functions. The visitors authority is currently offering a pro-gram which allows qualifying meetings planners to visit the destination, and get a feel for the quality of hotel rooms, dining and meeting spaces, free of charge. For more information, go to www.VisitRenoTahoe.com.

RENO TAHOE continued

Spa Toscana at Peppermil Resort

Whitney Peak Hotel

JA Nugget

The Riverwalk

15


15

Los Angeles :: Malibu :: Orange County :: Beverly Hills :: Inland Empire :: Santa Barbara

ContemporaryCatering.com310.558.8190

Something Sacred is at Stake at Every Event

Alvalyn Lundgrenwww.alvalyn.com [email protected] 805.857.7981

Corporate Event Branding

Designing Influence. Drawing Attention.P R O D U C T I O N S

P R O D U C T I O N S

@alvalyn /AlvalynCreative /Alvalyn /alvalyncreative

BREAKAWAYCAMP

to the Great Frontier

Lighthouse Church Fall Branding Program | v1 | 7.10.2012

and

Graphic Design and Visual Communications forFestivals, Conferences, Seminars, Trade Shows

Print, Web, Email, Signage & Social Media

16

MPISCC’s Weekend EducationalSummit

PHOTO ALBUM


17

INTERCOM | Volume 112 | November/December 2014Meeting Professionals International | Southern California Chapter

17

MPISCC’s Weekend EducationalSummit

Over 130 planners and suppliers from all over California attended WES on September 12-14, hosted by Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort in Rancho Mirage, CA, and

sponsored by MGM Resorts International. Saturday’s Summer Movie Night was sponsored by the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Las Vegas Convention Center & Visitors Authority hosted Sunday’s Cabana Network-ing. The Luxor Hotel & Casino and Excalibur Hotel & Casino sponsored MPISCC Cares at the Boys and Girls Club and the State of the Chapter brunch.

Exhibitors included: Gather Digital, Hilton Woodland Hills, Los Angeles Tour-ism & Convention Board; Marina del Rey Convention & Visitors Bureau; Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau; Oxnard Convention & Visitors Bureau; The Mob Museum; and Visit Napa Valley.

Raffle rewards were contributed by Base Entertainment, Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, MGM Grand Hotel & Casino, Monte Carlo Hotel & Casino, and New York New York Hotel & Casino.

18


On August 20, 2014, the Los Angeles Tourism and Conven-

tion Board (LATCB) held its 2nd Annual Los Angeles Tourism Industry Market Outlook Forum to a sold out crowd of 350+ attendees at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

A special appearance from Tom, Tim, Stewart, and Jerry — a.k.a. the Minions from Despicable Me — and Xiomara Wiley, Senior Vice President of Marketing & Sales of Universal Studios Hollywood, kicked off the program and shared that the Los Angeles attraction is on pace to have another 1 million more visitors than in 2013.

President and CEO, Ernest Wooden Jr., shared some records and firsts that Los Angeles had accomplished since our last Market Outlook Forum, such as a record 42.2 million visitors in 2013, a record 6.2 international vis-itors, a record 27.2 room nights sold, and a record occupancy of 76.8%. He went on to share that LATCB had also launched its first global desti-nation advertising campaign. We enjoyed record destination media coverage and website visits, and Los Angeles was the first city to achieve 1 million Facebook fans. These combined efforts have put Los An-geles on the map as a leading global tourism destination, and according to The Resonance Report, L.A. was just ranked the #1 destination in the United States. The criteria for this award was based on L.A.’s surge in infrastructure activity, our wide array of activity options, consumer reviews

of the L.A. Experience and the gener-al buzz about the destination through traditional and social media.

In 2012, Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board set a goal of welcoming 50 million visitors by 2020. Based on the records and previously-shared statistics, we’re well on our way to that goal.

A strong local tourism industry means a strong local economy and job growth. In 2013, L.A.’s tourism industry generated record visitor spending of $18.4 billion for local businesses. This spending translates to an economic impact to L.A. of nearly $30 billion. Because of this vis-itor spending, L.A.’s Leisure and Hos-pitality industry supported 436,700 jobs and created 21,400 new jobs in 2013 — more new jobs than any other industry, surpassed only by the Health Services industry. Now, 1 in 9 L.A.-area is supported by our tourism industry. The tremendous amount of tax revenue generated from visitor spending saves each Los Angeles household $669 per year in taxes.”

Wendy Kheel, Vice President of Tourism Insights, shared L.A. Tour-ism Outlook and Trends. Senior Vice President of Sales, Darren Green, addressed the Meetings and Con- vention Outlook, and then Don Skeoch, Chief Marketing Officer, shared the Destination Marketing Outlook. This was followed by the General Session, Tourism Infrastruc-ture Update: Los Angeles Convention Center, LAX, Public Transportation, New Hotel Deployment with panel-

ists Mary Grady, Los Angeles World Airports; Martha Welbourne, Metro; and Bud Ovrom, Department of Con-ventions & Tourism Development. This session was moderated by LATCB’s very own Patti MacJennett, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs.

This year, the Market Outlook Forum implemented concurrent breakout sessions. Breakout One: Inside the Millennial Mind: Connecting with today’s Most Powerful Generation included panelists Jo Piazza of Yahoo! Travel; Rita Prosyak Drucker with Yahoo! Marketing Partnerships & Branded Entertainment; Andrew Pelosi of Maker Studios, a Disney Company; Devery Holmes with Spark Alliance Marketing; and Bob Gregson from the Line Hotel. This breakout was moderated by Susan Lomax, LATCB’s VP of Communications.

This panel of travel and entertain-ment experts represented companies that are leading the way in engaging Millennials. This was the breakout that I attended and found to be quite valuable. Millennials (ages 20-34) are the largest consumer group and avid tech users. They will generate 50% of travel spending by 2020 equating to $180 billion.

Breakout Two: International Out-look, was led by Kathy Smits, VP of International Tourism for LATCB along with guest speaker, Erin Frances-Cummings with Destination Analysts.

Los Angeles Tourism’s

MARKET OUTLOOK50 million visitors by 2020by Mariles Krok, CMP | Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

continued on page 20

19


19

Expectations Exceeded

For over 35 years Luners Production Services has partnered with Event Planners to produce truly custom Event Technology experiences. From creative concept to detailed service performance, you can trust our team of Account Managers, Designers, and Technical Specialists to bring your vision to reality. No matter the size of your event, we go the extra mile to pay close attention to the details that are most important to you. The Luners team will partner with you every step of the way to plan, organize, and simplify your event details. We look forward to making a difference on your next event.

Creative Event Planning

Budget Friendly Proposals

Experienced Technical Specialists

Relevant Equipment Inventory

Our designers will create a truly custom show experience for your event. From renderings to reality, your event will be everything you expect and more.

Your on-site Technical staff will consist of some of the industries most talented, and specialized Event Technology Professionals.

Luners is constantly updating our equipment inventory to keep up with the fast-paced evolution of Audio Visual technologies.

Producing high impact events that stay within budget has been one of secrets to our success. We listen to your financial needs while providing creative solutions.

805-654-1007

www.luners.comCall Today For A No Obligation Proposal

Details Planned

Audience EngagedBudget Met

Southern California’s Premier Audio Visual

Event Production Experience.

0

5

25

75

95

100

MPI Intercom

Monday, July 21, 2014 2:27:35 PM

20


Whether or not you partner with a speakers’ bureau, this handy checklist will provide insight and help expedite the selection process.

Lunch featured Keynote Speaker, Joanne Heyler, Director/Chief Cura-tor of the Broad Art Foundation. The Broad is a new contemporary art mu-seum being built downtown on Grand Avenue. The museum will open to the public in 2015 and will be home to the nearly 2,000 works in The Broad Art Foundation and the Broads’ personal collections, which are among the world’s most prominent holdings of postwar and contemporary art. With its innovative “veil-and-vault” concept, the 120,000-square-foot, $140 million building will feature two floors of gal-lery space to showcase The Broad’s comprehensive collections and will be the headquarters of The Broad Art Foundation’s lending library. The Broad is also building a 24,000-square-foot public plaza adjacent to the museum, adding critical green space to Grand Avenue.

Breakout Three: The Digital Tourist: Trends, Tactics, and Takeaways edu- cated guests on today’s Travel 2.0 world and how top brands navigate the digital landscape. This was moder-ated by Bill Karz, VP of Digital Market-ing for LATCB, with panelists Todd Skelton, Trip Advisor; Troy Thompson, Travel 2.0; and Greg Velasquez, Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills.

Breakout Four: Group, Meeting, and Convention Trends: Strategies, Oppor- tunities, and Perspectives from In-dustry Executives featured Danielle Boyles, HelmsBriscoe; and Brian Stevens of ConferenceDirect. This session was was co-moderated by Kathy McAdams, VP of Convention Sales and Bryan Churchill, VP of Hotel Sales of the LATCB. In this session I learned that third party account acquisition and penetration continues to increase. In fact, 39% of Fortune 500 company planners use a third-party platform. When the panelists were asked what the differences are between each company, Danielle shared that when working with HB, there are no fees passed onto the client, that they offer site selection as well as hotel negotiation and in 2013, HelmsBriscoe booked $857 M and

4.6M room nights, $15.8M and 78K in room nights. Brian responded that CD is a full-service company with 1,800 customers, and that CD booked $537M in rooms revenue in 2013 and 2.9M+ in group room nights. Danielle shared that HB prides itself on its buying power and providing excep-tional value. HelmsBriscoe’s scope of business is 70% Corporate and offers special promotions and dedicated partnership programs with hotels and CVBs. Brian shared that CD has 1,100 3rd party members in MPI, that CD offers an internal certification program. CD often hires hotel sales staff and has a full time trainer. The

facilitators went on to ask additional questions regarding international trends, the global economy and emerging markets, and closed with the question “What can we do as a destination/hotel to be a more desir-able partner?” Danielle’s responses was, “Relationships, staying top of mind, being known as a third party friendly destination, FAMs, and completing RFPs in a timely manner. Brian’s responses were, “selling trust, finding ways to have the General Man-ager meet clients, and take the client to and from the airport”.

The closing General Session The Shared Economy: the Transformation and Impacts of Alternative Lodging Accommodations covered the latest on inroads into the hotel industry, the impact of private accommodation, the rise of the new-gen renter, and what it all means for business. The panelists included Douglas Quinby, PhoCus-Wright; Matt Kurtz, HVS Consulting; and Frank Loukrenzis of LATCB. Tom

Mullen, Chief Administrative Officer, LATCB, served as moderator. In this session I learned that private accom-modations are nothing new to travel. In 2008 vacation rentals generated $24B. Seventeen percent of US lei-sure travelers spent $22M on rentals, and half of those were Millenials. The new gen renter represents 31% and is spending more of their disposable income. These renters prefer to stay in smaller, boutique alternatives versus the “big box” hotels. They also use their smartphone or tablets to book their travel. My biggest take away was that short term vacation rentals do not seem to impact hotel perfor-mance.

Wooden Jr. concluded the program with the following message: “Without a destination, any road will do. We have a destination – 50 million visitors by 2020. And, today, we shared key insights and plans to get us there. As a destination, we have an exciting story to tell around the world about the Los Angeles experience. It is our hope that today…you are walking away with thoughts and ideas to build your own L.A. success story in the year ahead. We are excited to work with you and look forward to your continued engagement with us to achieve continued record results.”

Speaking of continued record results, here is one very exciting performance metric:

From August 3–9, Los Angeles enjoyed a 93.6% occupancy rate, which is nearly unheard of. Even more impressive, every single sub market within Los Angeles enjoyed 90% occupancy or better – something that has never been done before in the Los Angeles market. Every single area of Los Angeles has been firing on all cylinders.

If you haven’t yet attended a Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board Market Outlook Forum, I highly recommend doing. The information and insights pertaining to the Travel and Meetings industries is invaluable.

INDUSTRY UPDATE continued

…We have an exciting story to tell around the world about the Los Angeles experience.

21


PRO TIPS

RIGHT KEYNOTE SPEAKERby Liz Piacentini, CMP | Goodman Speakers Bureau

Choosing the best speaker for your meeting can be an exciting task,

often determining one of the key elements of your event. With the Inter-net at our fingertips, it is easy to Google “motivational speakers” for immediate results on speaker options. Easy, that is, until you are presented with literally millions of website options! The reality soon sets in that this is a time-consum-ing and challenging task.

To streamline the process, savvy plan-ners work with a speakers bureau as an extension of their meeting planning teams. By helping them to research, se-cure, and coordinate speaker logistics, speakers bureaus save planners time while providing guidance and expertise.

Use the following checklist to create an effective partnership with your speak-ers bureau. Gathering the answers will also provide a valuable exercise in keep-ing you and your stakeholders on track for success. After completing as many questions as possible, share your find-ings with your speakers bureau partner - your creative resource for discussing ideas, needs and concerns.

Start with the basics:

• When is the meeting?

• Where is the meeting?

• Is the keynote time or date flexible?

• How often is the meeting held?

Understand the Audience:

Audience demographics and charac-teristics can be crucial in selecting the right speaker. Speakers bureaus can immediately recommend, or eliminate from consideration, certain speakers based on the audience demographics.

• Titles of attendees

• Age range

• Male/female ratio

• Which division/department of the organization are they from?

Understand the Stakeholder’s Perspective:

Senior leaders are often the final decision-makers in selecting a speaker. Meeting planners can save themselves time and energy by learning what’s important to the executives before researching speakers.

• What books are your senior leaders reading? (insight to what’s important to them)

• What challenges is your industry, organization or audience facing?

• What personal interests inspire your executive team? (i.e., Do they appreciate music, encourage creative thinking, or follow a particular sport?)

Evaluate Past Event History:

If you are working on an annual program, chances are, you collected helpful data in last year’s evaluations. Review the feedback and recommendations from prior attendees and compare this with current stakeholder expectations.

While attendees and internal execu-tives may all appreciate the value a pro-fessional speaker adds, you need to be sure you understand their needs and objectives to have both happy attend-ees and satisfied stakeholders. To help meet this wise goal, both planners and their internal executives should answer the following questions:

• Who stands out as the best speaker you have had in the past? Why? (Was it subject matter, delivery style, placement on the agenda, celebrity status, or participation in the event beyond the stage?)

• Who stands out as the worst? Why?

Define the Meeting Objective & Program Format:

By clearly identifying your meeting objectives, you can design meet-ing components that become build-ing blocks for a successful meeting. Share objectives early in the process with your planning committee, key stakeholders and your speakers bureau

How To Hire the

Whether or not you partner with a speakers’ bureau, this handy checklist will provide insight and help expedite the selection process.


22


partner.It helps everyone to understand the type of speaker that can drive atten-dance, engage attendees or deliver the desired outcome.

Encounter a change along the way? Keep everyone informed! A speakers bureau can redirect its research and respond with updated recommenda-tions. The more your event partners know about your desired outcome, the more they can help you find the right professional speaker and increase your meeting’s success!

• What is the overall objective of the meeting?

• What is the strategic message or program theme you wish to communicate?

• What type of speaker would help you accomplish this? (Do you need a specific background such as recognized business leader, industry expert, celebrity, or sports figure? Or, do you need a particular style such as motivational, humorous, educational, interactive, etc?)

• How will the meeting format be structured to communicate this message?

• Where on the agenda would the speaker be most effective?

Define Speaker Expectations:

Defining speaker expectations initially helps a speakers bureau make the right speaker recommendations. Once the speaker is determined, they help the speaker customize their presentation according to the program objectives. Conference calls provide excellent com-munication opportunities for clarifying these expectations.

A speaker will appreciate being told up-front that you need someone to deliver the opening keynote PLUS write an ar-ticle for the newsletter and participate in a meet and greet reception before they accept the invitation. Use the following questions to clarify expectations and avoid misunderstandings:

• What expectations do you have from the speaker in supporting your meeting’s objective?

• What ideal “take aways” would you like the speaker’s presentation to provide?

• Beyond the keynote, are there other expectations of the speaker? (i.e., pre-event promotional article, Q & A session, book signing, reception attendance, follow-up webinar)

• How important is the keynote speaker is to the overall success of the meeting?

Conduct a Post Event Review:

After the event, assess the role of the speaker and how he/she impacted the overall event.

• Did he/she add value to the meeting and deliver the defined expectations?

• Did he/she meet your stakeholder’s expectations?

• Did he/she meet your audience’s expectations? Did attendees respond well? In what ways?

• What are your additional thoughts or comments about the speaker?

Don’t forget to share feedback from both stakeholders and attendees with your speakers bureau. This information helps them to further understand your organization’s culture and preferences. Future collaboration will only be stronger and help you to continue to produce exceptional programs that meet your objectives and your stakeholders’ expectations.

Liz Piacentini, CMP has been a member of MPI since 2002. She has served as the past Director of Leadership Devel-opment for the Connecticut River Valley Chapter and has been the Chapter’s CMP Study Group Leader for nine years. Liz currently works as a Program Consul-tant at the Goodman Speakers Bureau, helping meeting planners find, secure the coordinate the right professional speak-er for events. Liz may be contacted at l [email protected] or 860-687-1116.

The more your event partners know about your desired outcome, the more they can help you find the right professional speaker and increase your meeting’s success!

23


SHINING STARSSHINING STARS

MARK NITTI has been an outstanding volunteer on the Advocacy Committee. He has been very dedicated to this group by giving of his time and expertise.

Mark is Director of Customer Engagement at Metrolink, where he oversees the market-ing, sales, customer service, communications and market research departments. His professional background was in the hospitality and incentive business with management positions at Marriott, The Ritz Carlton Hotel Company, Associ-ated Luxury Hotels International and Balboa Meetings and Incentives.

Mark is a native of Southern California and was born and raised in Los Angeles. In his spare time Mark enjoys his family, golf, cooking and is an avid surfer.

KAREN MILLAR has been hosting MPISCC’s After Five meet-ups on the Westside. Her efforts and time devoted to MPISCC has earned her this honor.

Karen joined Bloomingdale’s in 1999 as Regional Manager for Corporate Sales. She launched the West Coast office and established Bloomingdale’s as a key fashion resource for the corporate gifting industry. Her passion for the business and commitment to customer service has distinguished Karen as the recipient of many Bloomingdale’s awards, including induction into the Chairman’s Club. An active volunteer, she is committed to charitable causes focusing on women’s and children’s health initiatives, and has chaired fundraising dinners and events throughout Beverly Hills and Los Angeles.

Karen feeds her adventurous soul with a love of travelling, gourmet cooking, and deca-dent desserts, all of which she shares with her husband, two sons, and Oliver, her Pekingese.

CAROLYN MCKENNA has been working diligently on social media for the MPISCC Communications team, focusing on our LinkedIn account. She has been very responsive and dedicated.

Carolyn began her tenure at NBCUniversal as a page in New York City during the summer of 2005. Over the past 8 years Carolyn has made significant contributions to the sales and marketing teams in both domestic and international television distribution.

Recently, Carolyn took a leap of faith and resigned from her position at NBCUniversal to pursue her passion for pilates.

JEFF BERGMANN has done a standout job hosting the After Five gatherings on the Westside, and has been a great resource to MPISCC.

Jeff is the Group Sales Manager at The Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills, the most- awarded hotel in Southern California for 22 consecutive years. Jeff joined the hotel in 2008 after experiences with The Four Seasons Los Angeles, The Bel Age Hotel (now the London West Hollywood) and the Omni Los Angeles. Prior to his hotel career, he worked in the entertainment industry at a talent agency.

A transplant from the east coast, Jeff has called Los Angeles home for more than half his life.

In his spare time, Jeff enjoys golf, tennis, visiting museums and spending time with his dog. A self-proclaimed master of trivia, his co-workers have given him the nickname “The Oracle.”

MPISCC’s

VOLUNTEERS

Each quarter, MPISCC recognizes its outstanding volunteers, nominated by their peers for their contributions to their teams, to the organization and to the meetings industry.

24


NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

YVETTE ANTONIOU is the Director of Sales at the Marina del Rey Hotel in Marina del Rey, CA. She is a 20-year veteran of hotel sales, having spent most of her career at LAX hotels including the Hacienda Hotel in El Segundo, the Holiday Inn LAX, and the Crowne Plaza LAX.

In May of 2011, Yvette chose to explore a different market in Marina del Rey. She started as the Director of Sales of the Jamaica Bay Inn, owned and managed by Pacifica Hotel Company, and which had undergone a com-plete renovation, morphing from a 42-room Best Western to a 111-room independent boutique property.

In August 2013, the Pacifica Hotel Company closed the Marina del Rey Hotel so that it could

undergo a complete renovation. In February, 2014, Pacifica asked Yvette to lead the sales effort of the new property in preparation for its re-opening in mid-November 2014 as a mod-ern 4- diamond resort. Yvette and her team are tasked with repositioning the hotel in the mar-ket and bringing upscale meetings, groups, and events to the property. All of the hotel’s 9,700 square feet of event space, including a 3,500 square foot outdoor event lawn, have beautiful marina views.

Yvette and her husband, Harry, reside in Redondo Beach and enjoy hiking, dining, and traveling. They are supporters of and fund raisers for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

I’m MICHAEL BARRON, a Bay Area native, raised mostly in the small city of Alameda. I lived around Bay Area (Danville, then Concord, then Oakland) my whole life through college at SF State (Communications Major) before mov-ing to LA on a whim 12 years ago. As a lifelong musician and fan of cinema, it just seemed like the place to be.

I came to hospitality via the wholesale market. Right around when the recession hit in 2007, I took a job that seemed very random at the time, which was to work for a London-based Europe-an boutique hotel wholesaler. Through my four years with that company, I came to love the trav-el industry and more specifically the hospitality industry. I knew my next move would be with a hotel.

In 2011 I got my first hotel job with the Standard in downtown LA. I loved everything about it. I worked front desk, reservations, got promoted to Reservations Manager and then transitioned to the sales department by the end of my first year there.

At the end of 2013, I was offered to join the pre-opening sales team for a new hotel in Koreatown. It was a tough decision, but I took the plunge to join the LINE as a group sales man-ager. It’s been one of the most rewarding and exciting professional decisions I’ve ever made (thank you Jane Mato for opening the door!).

I joined MPI in March of 2014 and decided that I wanted to go ALL IN. I am currently volunteering on MPISCC’s monthly program committee and it’s been so much fun. I already feel so grateful for the experience and we’ve only just begun.

HEATHER MASON I am president of Caspian Productions, a third party producing firm (we NEVER say planning because it’s a low-paying word), so the buck stops here on all things. We recommend locations, content, and strategy. It’s very satisfying to see something come to com-pletion and working with clients who are chang-ing the world for good.

I wanted to be a film producer and worked in the movie industry, and realized it was about a lot more than hard work. I now produce meetings instead of films.

I joined MPISCC for the networking opportuni-ties, to keep up with best practices and news in the industry and for the online job board listings.

Childhood Ambition: Inventor

First Job: Camphand at Camp Luther Heights, which involved cleaning the composting toilet, making the bonfire and washing dishes.

Proudest Moment: Seeing my first conference that I financed — a teenage girls conference, SUREFIRE — come to completion last year

Favorite place visited: Cinque Terra In Italy

Bucket List: Zipline in some exotic place

Inspirational Persion: Oprah. She’s amazing


25

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Azza Akkad Riverside Convention Center [email protected]

Maria Baserga-Rudd Event Manager [email protected]

Maribel Denner Marriott International [email protected]

Nina DePaz Rivera Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel Senior Sales Manager [email protected]

Teresa Feil Professor, Orange Coast College [email protected]

Richard Good Classic Party Rentals, Santa Barbara General Manager [email protected]

Darren Green Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board [email protected]

Hillary Harris Warner Bros Special Events [email protected]

Beatriz Jurs Iberostar Hotels and Resorts manager.incentives1@iberostar- hotels.com

Robyn Kiyomi Bird Meets Color Productions [email protected]

Ruben Labin Visit Temecula Valley [email protected]

Debbie Lemke Fielding Graduate University [email protected]

Alma Lester Four Points by Sheraton LAX [email protected]

Jennifer Mason Charles Schwab [email protected]

Christopher Medeiros NY Institute of Art and Design [email protected]

Susan Medica AFR Event Furnishings [email protected]

Juli Miller J&M Entertainment [email protected]

Nancy Normile The Mob Museum [email protected]

Ginger Page Implant Direct [email protected]

John Raftery Executive Limousine & Coach [email protected]

Norma Reyes Student [email protected]

Paul Ross Ghita Services Inc [email protected]

Addi Somekh Balloon [email protected]

Judith SperaMarina Del Rey Hotel & Marina [email protected]

Grace Takimoto Diamond Resorts International [email protected]

Kay Thompson Petersen Village Inn [email protected]

Vanessa Van de Bovenkamp Garden Inn Marina del Rey [email protected]

Kimberlee WolfeStudent [email protected]

Libby Zarrahy The L.A. Hotel Downtown [email protected]

26


Thank YouOUR STRATEGIC PARTNERS

Documents

Intercom November/December 2014