JUL
AUG
2024
VOL 46/NUM 4

C H A P T E R“MPI-WI Chapter is the bridge to knowledge, compelling ideas, andrelationships to create a voice in the meetings and events industry.”A W A R D

TWOTWO PROPERTIES,PROPERTIES,ENDLESSPOSSIBILITIESENDLESSPOSSIBILITIESBook your meeting at The Madison Concourse Hotel or The Ingleside Hotel!
Book your meeting at The Madison Concourse Hotel or The Ingleside Hotel!

You can do a lot with 27,000 square feet of meeting space.
You
do a lotwith 27,000
squareof meeting
space.
The canMadisonConcourseHotelandfeetGovernor’sClubis the largest
The
MadisonConcourse
Hoteland
Governor’sClublargestconvention hotel in Madison. The modern, flexible spaceis isthe
perfect
convention
hotel
inMadison.
The
modern,flexiblespaceisperfect
for everything from large conventions to small strategic planningforeverythinglargeinconventions
small strategicplanning
sessions,
and it’sfrom
locatedthe heart oftodowntown
Madison,steps
sessions,
andit’s
located
in
the
heart
of
downtown
Madison,from dozens of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.steps
from dozens of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.
1 W Dayton St, Madison WI • 800 356 8293 • concoursehotel.com
1 W Dayton St, Madison WI • 800 356 8293 • concoursehotel.com

With over 40,000 square feet of meeting space, 20 private event
With
over
squarefeet ofacres,
meeting
20 private
venues,and40,000
40 breezyoutdoor
Thespace,
Ingleside
Hotel event
offers avenues,and40
breezyoutdooracres,
The
Ingleside
Hotel offers arefreshing change of pace from conventional destinations.
refreshingchange Lakeof pacefrom conventional
Come experience
Country
hospitality atdestinations.
its natural, vibrant best.
Comeexperience
Lake
Country
hospitality
at its natural,
vibrant best.
Plan your next event in the flexible,
unique spaceand enjoy
Plan
your
next
event
in
the
flexible,unique
space
and
enjoy
an inspirational setting unlike any other in the Milwaukee area.
an inspirational setting unlike any other in the Milwaukee area.

2810 Golf Rd, Pewaukee WI • 800 247 6640 • theinglesidehotel.com
2810 Golf Rd, Pewaukee WI • 800 247 6640 • theinglesidehotel.com
July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

2

JULY/AUGUST 2024

MPI-WISCONSIN
2023-2024
BOARD OF DIRECTORSVOL 46 / NUM 4

PRESIDENTREGGIE DRISCOLL, CMP
State Bar of Wisconsin
rdriscoll@wisbar.org

Feature Articles

PRESIDENT-ELECTLIZ UNRUH
Positively Pewaukee
liz@positivelypewaukee.com
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTREBECCA STAATS
Residence Inn & Fairfield by Marriott Eau Claire
rebecca.l.staats@gmail.com

Gala Event Preview		

8

MPI-Wisconsin Hall of Fame

10

Wisconsin’s Take on MPI-WEC in Louisville, KY

14August Education Day Preview

19

VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIPELIZABETH POH
La Crosse Center
epoh@lacrossecenter.com

In Every Issue

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
SARA BEUTHIEN
WEDC
sara.beuthien@wedc.org

Editor’s Note		4

President’s Message

7

Food for Thought: Chef Jenny Koschak

11

Who’s in the News

22

Anniversaries / New Members				24

Volunteer Spotlight: Elizabeth Poh		

26

Save the Date

28

VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONSKORTNEE CARROLL
Kalahari Resorts
kocarroll@kalahariresorts.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF EDUCATIONAMY QUALMANN
Wisconsin Association of School Boards
aqualmann@wasb.org
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION PROJECTSJACOB ADAMSKI
Stevens Point Area CVB
jacob@stevenspointarea.com
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTSCARRIE BERGER
National Fluid Power Associationcberger@nfpa.com
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERS & SPONSORSHIPSED BUCHNER
Majic Productions
ebuchner@majicpro.com
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER CAREJODY ROOS
Wisconsin Bankers Association
jroos@wisbank.com
DIRECTOR OF AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS & RECRUITMENT
KATHY READINGThe SCAN Groupreading@scangroup.net
DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
CHERYL OSWALD
CNH Industrial
cheryl.oswald@cnhind.com

Experience MPI Wisconsin
Print: Agenda Magazine
5 Different Ways
Web: mpiweb.org/Wisconsin
Facebook: facebook.com/mpiwi
LinkedIn: MPI-WI Chapter
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mpi_wi_chapter 																	DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONSGRETA MCCUEHyatt Regency Milwaukee
greta.mccue@hyatt.com
DIRECTOR OF MONTHLY PROGRAMMING
LINDSEY HESS, CMPUW-Madison
lhess@highroad.wisc.edu

July/August 2024

4075 Vilas Road

fax: 608.204.9818

Cottage Grove, WI 53527

email: admin@mpiwi.org

tel: 608.204.9816

web: www.mpiweb.org/wisconsin|

MPI Agenda|

3

Editor’s Note
Published bimonthly by
Meeting Professionals International –Wisconsin Chapter

Happy Summer, MPI-WI!
For those of you that are connectedwith me on LinkedIn, (or read “Who’s
in the News” in this publication), you
may know of my promotion at Zywave.
Although I am proud of the fact that
I got this promotion, it was far moresignificant to me than the new title or
the new salary – it marked a pivotal
point in my career post-pandemic.

EDITORSMaria Peot, CMP
Zywavemaria.peot@gmail.com
Tyler Priefer
Generac Power Systems
tyler.priefer@generac.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Courtney Carroll
Reggie Driscoll, CMPCheryl Oswald, CMP
Maria Peot, CMP
Ashley Booth
Kathy Reading

GRAPHIC DESIGNAnn Shultz, AJS Designs

PUBLICATION DEADLINES

September / October 2024
Deadline: August 15, 2024
November / December 2024
Deadline: October 15, 2024
January / February 2025
Deadline: December 15, 20242020 was a tumultuous year for allof us – the world was turned upside
down in more ways than one. One
thing we all have in common is that
our jobs changed. This looked different for everyone – some were pivoting
from live to virtual events, others were brainstorming creative ways toengage event attendees through their computer screens, and some wereeven looking for new careers altogether.
Here’s where I am going to get really vulnerable….
When the pandemic hit in March of 2020, I actually was not working. I had
been let go in January after missing goals set out by my manager and HR aspart of a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP). For those of you who know
me well, you know this was very out of character for me. I wasn’t one to be
lazy, slack off, or do any of the things that typically prompt a PIP. I was a bit
embarrassed, but also felt burnt out, tired, and thought maybe it was time
for me to pursue a different career. Fast forward to mid-March and BOOM,
the world changed for everyone. Like many people, I felt totally lost. Unlike
a lot of people, I had already been unemployed for a while and thus in the
midst of a pretty bad depression. The pandemic took things from bad toworse for me. I spent the rest of 2020 being treated for depression, sleeping
A LOT, and getting further and further from being myself.
Skipping over many details, I’ll fast forward again to December of 2020.
I went to the eye doctor for my annual check up and within 24 hours was
being wheeled into the ER for emergency brain surgery to remove a tumor
the size of a lemon from my frontal lobe.

PERMISSIONS
Material in this publication may not be
reproduced in any form without permission.
Statements of fact and opinion within the
Agenda are the responsibility of the author(s)and do not imply an opinion of the officers or
members of MPI or MPI-Wisconsin Chapter.

This was a HUGE relief for all of those close to me, especially my immediatefamily. I was lucky. So, so lucky. I had the BEST care from world-renowned
doctors and my tumor was benign…which made it easier to joke about when
I had my tumor and the bizarre behaviors that came with it. Thankfully, myrecovery progressed well and quickly.
Continued on page 5

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

4

Back to table of contents

Phew. Yes, phew. A big, grateful PHEW.

Continued from page 4

you can take from this is not just a (super scary!) health scare,
but a story of overcoming something totally unexpected,
during possibly the worst time ever.

Just shy of a year after surgery, I started at Zywave. I was hired
as an event coordinator and had no idea what to expect.

Strength. Grit. Determination.

I’m happy to say that less than three years
later, I am confident that this was the job forme. I’m not burnt out, I’m not tired (well, otherthan the normal tiredness that comes withworking in this industry!), and I no longer doubtthat I am following the career path meant forme. I’ve been promoted twice, am working withthe best events team in the business (ya, I’m alittle bit biased, but we mesh really well), andam living my best #lifeofaplanner!

Each and every one of you have these qualities inside of you.
Tap into them when you need them. Know that you will land
exactly where you are supposed to land.
And in the words of my dear friend Kathy Reading, “Go YOU”!

I hope y’all take this story of hope to heart. It’s not somethingthat I run around talking about, but I think my MPI-WI family
deserved to hear the story directly from me. What I’m hoping

Meet in the Middle
Middleton, Wisconsin, is anything but ordinary.
Choose from one of nine hotels, including the area’s
largest convention hotel, and enjoy one of our 80 cafésand restaurants, two shopping districts, awardwinning brewery, local cidery, quirky attractions,and beautiful scenic spaces. Come discover why
it’s the middle things that will make your meeting
memorable.

meetinmiddleton.com

WMPI_halfpg July-Aug-2024.indd 1

6/27/2024 2:47:27 PM

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

5

Back to table of contents

Ask About Our Grant Program!

L E T’S C R E A T E
YO U R V I S I O N
We know just the place. Our world-class meeting and event centerin the heart of Madison, Wisconsin, is home to 250,000 square feet ofFrank Lloyd Wright-designed space – and every inch of it is customizable
right down to the last detail. From award-winning catering to custom AV
and staging setups, walkable restaurants and nightlife to breathtaking views,

Back to table of contents

if you can imagine it, we can help orchestrate your incredible.

Madison, WI

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

6

Connect with us at MononaTerrace.com© 2024 Monona Terrace

President’s Message“Chapter of Excellence.” Our chapter
has won this a couple of years in arow, so it would be great to keep the
momentum going and add anotheryear to our record.

next board continuing the growthand success of our chapter. The
board will be posted to the members
for the month of July, then submitted
to MPI Global on August 1st to keepin compliance with their deadlines.
Thank you to Becca Staats andthe nominating committee for allof your time and commitment onreaching out to our current board,
seeking individuals to join theboard, and following through withcompleting the board slate. Again,
we are setting our chapter up for
success with a great team.

Yes, it’s me again. Normally wewould be welcoming and celebratinga new board and a new president
for our chapter. With the chapter
redesign from MPI-Global, that
won’t take place until January 1st,2025. This change was brought tous about a year ago, shortly after
we all accepted our new board
positions. Our chapter appreciates
the additional commitment from ourcurrent board. We also understandthe additional commitment from our
co-workers and families for the next
six months.
We are now in July looking to finish
up our board term strongly. The newboard for 2025 has been submitted
to the membership. When theslate becomes available, pleasetake a look and see who we haverepresenting the chapter for the
next year. We have a strong basecontinuing on the board and somereally excellent people coming on
the board for their first term. I’mreally looking forward to seeing theThis Fall, we’ll also see the MPI
Global survey come through ouremails. Please look for this and return
it promptly.

Once again, here we are in July. This
year has gone by quickly. Please
make sure to take time for yourloved ones, friends, and family.
This industry seems to never havea “slow” period. Make sure to
take some time out for yourself torecharge your batteries and let those
closest to you know how much you
appreciate them. Working with many
“Type-A” people I’ve seen many folks
look at their calendars in mid-Augustand realize they had some muchplanned for the summer but havenot accomplished much yet. Take
the time now to schedule days off or
family days, etc.

Our chapter gets gradedeach year by global on
several different metrics.
Membership, retention,member satisfaction,
educational content, andnumber of accredited
events vs. non-accredited
events.

Enjoy your summer, go easy on
yourself, and I look forward to seeing
you all in August, September, andOctober at our education events andour Awards Gala!

We get points for how we do in eachcategory. At our mid-year review, wewere in the top tier for all categories
except for the member satisfaction
survey. The survey hasn’t come out
yet. It would be great to get a large
amount of positive surveys returned.
This will qualify our chapter as a

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

Cheers!

Back to table of contents

Hello to all MPI-WI members,

Please check the back page of thisAgenda magazine. We have threeoutstanding events to round out
your year: August in Milwaukee,
September in Green Lake, andOctober in Fontana. Take a minuteright now to get these on yourcalendar. I would love to finish theyear strong with a record number ofattendees at each of these events.

7

A
L
GA NUE W
VE EVIEPRSEPTEMBER 26, 2024
MPI AWARDS GALA
Heidel House, Green Lake
By: Ashley Boothoised on the edge of the waters of Green Lake,the newly renovated Heidel House Hotel &Conference Center deftly combines genuine
Midwest hospitality with approachable elegance. Thishistoric landmark boasts expansive views of the emerald
waters of Wisconsin’s deepest inland lake.

activities, both on-site and throughout the area, offer
thrilling entertainment when your workday is done. The
only limit to your event is your own imagination.

With flexible and comfortable meeting spaces indoors andoutside, full-service AV equipment, attentive customer
service, culinary excellence and spectacular scenery,
Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center is your ideal
meeting venue. The tranquility of our beautiful 12-acreproperty will inspire your team, while the abundance of•Inspiring Ambiance: We understand that theenvironment plays a crucial role in shaping
productive discussions. Our thoughtfully
designed spaces, lakefront views, and appealing
aesthetics create an atmosphere conducive tocreative thinking and effective decision-making.

•Catering to Your Needs: Whether you requirecatering services, specialized equipment,
or unique room setups, our dedicated event
planning team is here to accommodate yourspecific requirements, ensuring your meeting
unfolds seamlessly.
Continued on page 9

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

8

Back to table of contents

The Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center offers
creative meeting space setups that are tailored to meetyour every business need, providing you with a seamless
platform to engage, ideate, and achieve your goals.

Centrally located in Wisconsin, and less than three hours
north of Chicago, Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center
offers breathtaking lakefront views, amazing spaces formeetings, executive retreats, gatherings, and activities,
and accommodations to meet any group’s needs. Divein or sit back and enjoy exceptional amenities and easy
access to nationally-rated golf, spa services, sunset
cruises, watersports, biking, shopping, live entertainmentand so much more. As the pace of life keeps getting faster,we welcome you to slow down, enjoy the views and hostyour successful event with us.

AL
GA NUE W
VE EVIEPR

HIGHLIGHTS•••

Privacy and Security: Your discussions are
confidential and secure within our environment.
Flexibility Redefined: With a range of meeting
spaces, from intimate rooms for quick
discussions to spacious ballrooms for large-scale
presentations, you have the flexibility to choose
the perfect setting for your objectives.
The Great Outdoors: Flexible outdoor space
available to inspire your attendees as well asprivate charter yacht excursions to inspire anddifferentiate your event.

•

11,000+ square feet of event space•

750 ft of lake frontage•

114 elegant rooms•

2 on-site restaurants and bars•

Customizable catering menus•

Advanced audio/visual services•

Group room blocks•

High-speed Wi-Fi•

Access to 114 holes of premium golf•

Free parking|

9July/August 2024

Back to table of contents

Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center specializes
in unique events. Our professional sales and catering
team can accommodate groups for business and social
events, weddings, reunions, golf outings, hospitality
arrangements, holiday parties, and private yacht
cruises. Expansive windows and walk-out terraces are
the perfect setting to inspire event attendees. Host
your next event at a lakeside destination that offers
incredible lake views directly from every event space.

|

MPI Agenda

Alison Hutchinson

By: Kathy Readinge are elated to announce that a true cornerstone of our chapter,
Alison Hutchinson, will be inducted into MPI-Wisconsin’s Hall of Fame
this year.
Celebrating her 10th year at the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, Alison continues to excel in her distinguishedcareer within the hospitality, meetings, and events industry. Since joining MPI in 2012, Alison has contributed to ourchapter in numerous volunteer, committee, and board roles, including her vital service as Chapter President during the2020-21 term. We are grateful for the profound impact of her dedication, innovative spirit, and unwavering inspiration on
our chapter.

July/August 2024|

September 26, 2024
Heidel House Hotel & Conference Center
Green Lake, WIMPI Agenda|

10

Back to table of contents

Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

Join us in celebrating Alison’s
remarkable achievements!

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

FOOD for thought:

CHEF jENNIFER KOSCHAKChef Jennifer Koschak, inspired by her Sicilian heritage, began her culinary journey
at a young age, cooking alongside her family. Her passion for food led her to the
Arizona Culinary Institute, where she honed her skills and graduated in 2015.
Jennifer’s career is as diverse as it is impressive. She has served as a private
chef to celebrities, politicians, and sports stars, showcasing her versatility andcreativity in the kitchen. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish both amobile food business and a successful catering company. Jennifer served as an
Executive Chef for seven years, during which she refined her culinary techniques
and built a strong reputation in the industry. For the past year, she has been
the Banquet Chef at the Heidel House Hotel and Conference Center, where her
culinary prowess continues to impress guests and clients alike.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer is a devoted mother.
She often shares that cooking comes second only to her love for her children,
infusing every dish she prepares with the same warmth and dedication she
gives to her family.
Chef Jennifer Koschak shares a favorite recipe that embodies her rich culinary
background and is simple enough for home cooks to try: Short Rib Bolognese.

Back to table of contents

See recipe on page 11

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

11

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Short Rib Bolognese Recipe
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

2 lbs. beef chuck short ribs
3 tbsp. canola oil
2 stalks celery (finely diced)
1 medium carrot (finely diced)
1 medium onion (finely diced)
4 oz. pancetta (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

3 tbsp. tomato paste
2 sprigs rosemary
2 sprigs thyme
1 sprig oregano¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
Salt and pepper
1 package pappardelle pasta

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Season and Sear:o Pat dry and season all sides of the short ribs withsalt and pepper.

o Heat oil in a Dutch oven or heavy pan over high heat
until it shimmers.
o Sear short ribs on all sides until browned (2-3
minutes per side). Transfer to a plate, leaving about
1 tbsp. of oil in the pan.

2. Build the Sauce:o Cook pancetta over medium-high heat until it starts
to brown.

o Add celery, carrot, and onion, cook for 2 minutes.
o Add garlic, cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
o Reduce heat to medium, add red wine, and scrape
the pan. Simmer for 1 minute.

o Add tomato paste and stir to combine.

3. Cook Low and Slow:o Return short ribs to the pan, meaty side down.
o Cover and cook on low heat for 3 to 3 ½ hours, until
meat is fork-tender.

o Remove ribs, pull meat off bones, discard gristle,
and return meat to the sauce.

o Remove herb sprigs. If desired, stir in heavy creamand simmer for 30 seconds.

4. Cook the Pasta:o Cook pasta in salted water according to package
instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before
draining.

5. Combine and Serve:o Toss pasta with short rib Bolognese. Add reserved
pasta water for a thinner sauce if needed.

o Top with cheese and fresh parsley or red pepper
flakes for added spice.

Enjoy this hearty and delicious Short Rib Bolognese, atestament to Chef Jennifer Koschak’s culinary expertiseand Sicilian roots.

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

12

Back to table of contents

INGREDIENTS:

WISCONSIN DELLS, WI

UNPARALLELED MEETINGS WITHUNIQUE OPTIONS FOR ALL
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is the perfect place to hold yourmeeting. Big or small, we’ll make sure your attendees are taken careof. Our talented culinary team is ready to create a tailored dining
experience to delight. With a full-service spa, a piano bar and worldclass dining options, Kalahari has everything you need to ensure
your event is successful.

› 212,000 square feet of flexible event space› Two hours or less from major cities› Diverse team-building options available on-site› Eight food & beverage options› 794 guest rooms & suites| ©2024 Kalahari Management Co. LLC
Back to table of contents

KalahariMeetings.com | Call 855-411-4605 to learn more | Follow Us:

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

13

MPI-WEC RECAP

Wisconsin’s Take on MPI-WEC
in Louisville, Kentucky
By: Kortnee Carroll

The MPI World Education Congress (WEC) held in Louisville, Kentucky was an exceptional event, bringing
together meeting and event professionals from around the globe. This year’s congress was marked by vibrantnetworking opportunities, educational sessions, and unique experiences, all set against the backdrop of
Louisville’s rich culture and history. Here are some highlights and personal reflections from our Wisconsin
chapter members:“The combination of educational sessions, workshops,
and social events created an engaging environment
where I could learn about the latest trends andinnovations in the industry while expanding myprofessional network. The vibrant city of Louisville added
to the experience with its rich culture, history, andhospitality,” said Ed.
Continued on page 14
July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

14

Back to table of contents

Ed Buchner’s Reflections:
Ed Buchner found the networking opportunities at MPI
WEC in Louisville to be his favorite part of the event.
He appreciated the diverse group of professionals it
gathered, providing a unique platform to connect withindustry peers, share experiences, and establish valuable
professional relationships.

MPI-WEC RECAP

Shannon Timmerman’s Favorites and Tips:
Shannon Timmerman highlighted the educational sessions and therelationships formed over the years as the main draws of WEC. She
particularly enjoyed the unique experiences offered by the host city,such as creating Derby hats and mingling at Churchill Downs.
“Never danced the night away in the front row like we did this year!
Creating our own Derby hats and mingling at Churchill Downs in our
Derby best was a bucket list item checked off for sure. An amazing
experience that so many people never get the opportunity to do,”Shannon shared.

“Being part of our Board for somany years, and watching ourStrategic Partnership program grow with the hard work of so many, wasa very proud moment for me. GO WISCONSIN!!”
For new WEC attendees, Shannon advises applying for a scholarship tohelp justify costs to employers and joining the MPI-WI chat group to stayconnected with chapter members.

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda

Continued on page 14|

15

Back to table of contents

Shannon also expressed
immense pride in witnessing the
MPI-WI Chapter receive its first
RISE Award.

MPI-WEC RECAP

Rebecca Staats’ Insights and Advice:Rebecca Staats’ favorite part of
WEC was spending quality time with
Wisconsin Chapter members. She
recounted memorable moments from
carpooling with fellow members tocelebrating the chapter’s RISE Award.
“One of the brightest spots of WEC wasbeing in attendance this year to witness
our chapter receive a coveted RISE
AWARD,” Rebecca enthused.

“For 2024, I was a very lucky recipientand awarded a $1,000 scholarshipfrom the MPI Foundation. Plan ahead,just a little! Review the sessions andfind out what you have to see and do inadvance,” she advised.

Continued on page 15
July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

16

Back to table of contents

Rebecca’s advice for future WEC
attendees is to plan early and secure
approvals for travel as soon as possible.
She recommends registering early to
get better hotel options and applying for
scholarships for financial assistance.

MPI-WEC RECAP

The MPI WEC in Louisville was a resounding
success, providing attendees withnumerous opportunities for professional
growth, networking, and unforgettable
experiences. The shared insights and tips
from Ed Buchner, Shannon Timmerman,
and Rebecca Staats highlight the value andimpact of this annual event. Our Wisconsin
chapter members returned with enriched
experiences, stronger professional
connections, and a sense of pride in theiraccomplishments. As we look forward to
WEC 2025 in St. Louis, MO, their reflections
will serve as a guide for maximizing thebenefits of this premier event for meetingand event professionals.

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

17

Back to table of contents

CONCLUSION

Mention this ad at the time of booking toreceive 50% off your in-house AV needs

ANYTHING
BUT BUSINESSAS USUAL
If you’re in pursuit of a venue that seamlessly integrates modern amenities witha storied history, your perfect destination is none other than Red Circle Inn.
Recognized as a hidden gem in Lake Country, the Delafield Hotel effortlessly
combines cool, contemporary sophistication with the tools to get the job done.

RED CIRCLE INN N44W33013 WATERTOWN PLANK RD, NASHOTAH • REDCIRCLEINN.COM
DELAFIELD HOTEL 415 GENESEE ST, DELAFIELD • DELAFIELDHOTEL.COM

AugustEducation
Day
Preview

DAVID CARUSO:
Crafting Memorable Experiences
By: Kortnee Carroll

We are excited to announce that David Caruso will be
our speaker for August Education Day!
With an impressive 22-year career as an event planner,designer, speaker, media personality, curator, andconsultant, David creates spaces and experiences that
foster joy and connection. As a native Milwaukeean, he
has elevated the standard for events in his hometown
and beyond, with his work extending to cities suchas Chicago, Miami, San Diego, and Los Angeles andinternationally to Costa Rica, Mexico, and the West
Indies.
David’s keen eye and business acumen have earned
him appearances on news and talk shows nationwide,
including his popular “Entertaining in Style with David
Caruso” segment on Milwaukee’s NBC show, The
Morning Blend. His insights have been featured in
Brides Magazine, Catering Magazine, and on various
radio outlets.
A sought-after speaker, David presents on weddings,
style, business, branding, and design across thecountry and internationally. His accolades include theprestigious Event Planner of the Year award from the
National Association for Catering and Events (NACE).
David also hosts the Emmy-nominated TV show Good
Things Brewing, designs linen collections for BBJ
LaTavola, and is a founding member of The Giving
Circle. He serves on the United Performing Arts Fund
(UPAF) board of directors. His collection, Signature
Style by David Caruso, offers affordable, handpicked
items from global creative partners.

July/August 2024

Back to table of contents

David Caruso’s life and career embody the spirit of
hospitality. His commitment to excellence defines
his life’s work. We look forward to his insights andexpertise at our August event.

|

MPI Agenda|

19

MEET in the

STEVENS
POINT AREA
The Stevens Point Area is the ideal spot
for meetings, with plenty of amenities forthe budget savvy. Experience our vibrantcommunity culture intertwined with alove of outdoor recreation, a knack forcraft brewing and an appreciation of arts.
The #StevensPointArea is nestled in theheart of Wisconsin with easy access tomajor highways. Let us be your guidewhen planning your next event!

John Hartman

Daniel Acker Photography

5

Ellen Klismith@coolasbryce96

6@sentryworld@stevenspointarea

Find caterers, event services,or entertainment for yournext event with our helpful
entertainment planner.

University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Point sculpture

Great Northern Distilling

5 SentryWorld, Grand Ballroom 6 Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, Exhibition Hall

SentryWorldSTEVENSPOINTAREA.COM/MEETINGSLand at MSN
Hit the hotel
Conference check in
7:15 pm

Cocktails with colleagues

Plan your next event in the city with top-tier conference centers, hotels,
and restaurants - all with easy access for your guests. Meet in Madison.

visitmadison.com/meetings

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

21

Back to table of contents

Dinner on Capitol SquareCompiled by Cheryl Oswald, CMP

Farrah Slinger, recently
accepted a new position as
Development Coordinatorwith NCG Hospitality.
Congrats, Farrah!

2

Maria Peot, CMP, wasrecently promoted to
Events Manager – Internal &Customer Events at Zywave.

3

Congrats, Maria!

Cheryl Oswald, CMP,
recently participated in theinaugural Golf Certification
on behalf of MPI. She is now
a Golf Tournament Certified
Planner.
Congrats, Cheryl!

NOTE: if you have any news to share in this column, please contact Cheryl Oswald,
Director - Publications & Community Outreach, cheryLoswald@cnh.com.

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

22

Back to table of contents1

It’s a bo u t t he Jou r n e y
Brookfield is located right off I-94 between
Milwaukee and Madison, and just a short drive fromGreen Bay, Wausau, and the Fox Valley. Easy
access to Milwaukee’s General MitchelInternational Airport makes Brookfield the perfectlocation for your next event.

It ’ s a bout the D estin ation
Home to the Brookfield Conference Center a
50,000+ sq. ft. venue with 168 sleeping rooms
attached, another 386 rooms adjacent, and 1200
more rooms within a mile. All have free surface
parking. Additionally, find meeting spaces in all
shapes and sizes to accommodate any budget
available.

It’s ab out y our S uccessMeeting locations in Brookfield offer all theamenities necessary to make your guests happy andyour job stress free. We can help with RFP’s, site tours
and guest welcome opportunities- all free of charge.
We’ll even thrown in some goodie bags!

Back to table of contents

CONTACT US(262)789-0220

visitbrookfield.com

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

23

MPI WISCONSINNEW MEMBERS

ANNIVERSARIESCongratulations to those members celebrating
a milestone anniversary in July/August!

1 YEARKELLY BAYLOR
BairdAMBER FARINA
Generac

DREW FUCHS
Sentry World

BRANDON FLITTER
Hotel Northland

JANA FURMANUW Credit UnionCARI GRULKE, CMP, DES
Association Management Strategies

TONY MCNAMARA
Ariens Co Hospitality

SHELLEY LAUERBest Western Bridgewood Resort Hotel

AREE WICHMAN
Prestige Global Meeting Source

CARRIE MANTEY
Nei-Tuner Media GroupCHRISTY MARQUARDTOshkosh Waterfront Hotel & Convention Center

5 YEARSED BUCHNER
Majic Productions
ANNIE SPECKETER
Sentry World

25 YEARS

Back to table of contents

STEVE LORENZ, CMP
TakedaJuly/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

24

Back to table of contents

MAJICPRO.COM • 414.839.1760

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

25

Our membership appreciates you, Elizabeth!

Back to table of contents

ELIZABETH POH

Volunteer Spotlights:

ELIZABETH POH stepped in when a mid-term position opened up on our chapter
board. She has been serving as Vice President of Membership since early 2024.
In this role, she keeps our Membership team directors and committees on task
and moving forward to best support our members.

If you’re interested
in volunteering,reach out to us atadmin@mpiwi.org
July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

26

Wisconsin’s
best-kept secretTransform ordinary meetings into extraordinary
experiences at Wisconsin’s first destination golf course.
Experience unparalleled convenience where luxury meets charmat SentryWorld—your premier destination resort for meetings, golf,
and leisure in Central Wisconsin.
• Flying or driving, reaching us is effortless with convenient
access from major highways and nearby airports• Over 70,000 square feet of flexible venue space accommodating
up to 3,000• Casual to fine dining options to enjoy, along with fully
customizable banquet menus• Indulge in luxury accommodations, featuring a diverse selectionof rooms and suites, complemented by an exclusive, secure floor
for heightened privacy and peace of mind
• Plan your group’s golf outing at our food/beverage inclusive,championship course—where 20-minute tee time intervals offer
guests a relaxed pace of play
Our experienced, full-service team will work with you to create aunique and impactful meeting for your team. Contact us today.

SPECIAL OFFER:

Back to table of contents

Unlock exclusive savings by mentioning MPI WI with yourRFP for meetings/events booked through March 31, 2025.
Enjoy 0% service charge on all room rental and AV needs!
sentryworld.com | 715-345-1600
Stevens Point, Wisconsin
July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

27

Enhance your meeting planning career with the

MPI ACADEMYWith hundreds of hours of free education for MPI members, the MPI Academy is your one-stop shop for
meeting planning and event industry skills training, CE credits and certificate courses. Featuring online andin-person classes and webinars, it's the perfect resource for the job you have - or the job you want.
CERTIFICATE COURSES: https://www.mpi.org/education

SAVE THE DATE
2024 CHAPTER EVENTSAUGUST 15, 2024
AUGUST EDUCATION
Bars & Rec
The Best Place at Historic Pabst Brewery &Brewhouse Inn & Suites, Milwaukee
SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
MPI AWARDS GALA
Heidel House, Green Lake

Back to table of contents

OCTOBER 14, 2024
OCTOBER EDUCATIONThe Abbey Resort, Fontana

July/August 2024|

MPI Agenda|

28