MAY
JUNE
2022
VOL 44/NUM 3

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

You can do a lot with 27,000 square feetof meeting space.
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From large conventions to small strategic planningsessions, The Madison Concourse Hotel andGovernor’s Club is perfect for your next successful
event.
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MEET WITH CONFIDENCE
With 20 private event venues, over 40,000 square
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Why choose an ordinary venue for your event when
extraordinary is just 20 miles from Milwaukee?
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unlike any other in the Milwaukee area.
Learn more at theinglesidehotel.com
2810 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI 53072
800 247 6640 | salesinfo@theinglesidehotel.com

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MPI Agenda|

2

MAY/JUNE 2022

MPI-WISCONSIN
2021-2022
BOARD OF DIRECTORSVOL 44 / NUM 3

PRESIDENTSHANNON TIMMERMAN, CMP
Wilderness Hotel & Golf Resort
stimmerman@wildernessresort.com

Feature Articles
2022/2023 Board of Directors

6

A Birthday Bash with MPI-WI Chapter

8

April Ed-You-Cation Day & Trivia Night

9May Event Preview

12

The Event Industry ComebackAwards Gala & 50th Anniversary Invite

16
18

VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIPMICHELLE TYO JOHNSONNorthCoast Media Groupmichelle@northcoastpro.com

WEC Heads to Sunny San Fran28

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
WANDA GILLES
veda
wanda.gilles@yahoo.com

In Every Issue

PRESIDENT-ELECTREBECCA STAATS
Residence Inn & Fairfield by Marriott Eau Claire
rebecca.l.staats@gmail.com
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTALISON HUTCHINSON
Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau
ahutchinson@foxcities.org

VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONSLIZ UNRUH
Positively Pewaukee
liz@positivelypewaukee.com
VICE PRESIDENT OF EDUCATIONREGGIE DRISCOLL, CMP
State Bar of Wisconsin
rdriscoll@wisbar.org
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EDUCATION PROJECTSBETH SCHNABEL, CMPFilene Research Institutebeths@filene.org
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTSJODY SIMON
WAMIC
wamic@wamic.org
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERS & SPONSORSHIPS
VICTORIA GRINWALD
The Boldt Company
victoria.grinwald@boldt.com
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER CAREJOSHUA WIMMER
Bartolotta Catering and Events
jmwimmer@wi.rr.com
DIRECTOR OF AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS & RECRUITMENTSARA BEUTHIEN
WEDC
sara.beuthien@wedc.org
DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITYMARIA PEOT, CMP
Zywavemaria.peot@gmail.com
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONSJESSICA RIEFLIN
Wisconsin Dells VCB
jessica@wisdells.com
DIRECTOR OF MONTHLY PROGRAMMINGJODY ROOS
Wisconsin Bankers Association
roos@wisbank.com

Editor’s Note

4

President’s Message

7

Food for Thought: Executive Chef Joe Thomas

14

Volunteer Spotlight: Danielle Ziegler, CMP, CVT, CNAP

20

Board Member Profile: Reggie Driscoll

22

Anniversaries / New Members

23

Supplier Profile: Sarah Lemmers

24

Who’s in the News

25

Planner Profile: Michelle Eggert, CMP, CDS

27

Save the Date: 2022 Chapter Events

29

Experience MPI Wisconsin
Print: Agenda Magazine
6 Different Ways
Web: mpiweb.org/Wisconsin
Facebook: facebook.com/mpiwi
Twitter: twitter.com/mpiwisconsin
LinkedIn: MPI-WI Chapter
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mpi_wi_chapter 																	

2820 Walton Commons, Ste 103

fax: 608.204.9818

Madison, WI 53718

email: admin@mpiwi.org

tel: 608.204.9816

web: www.mpiweb.org/wisconsin

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

Greetings, dear MPI-WI members!
As outgoing co-editor of our beloved
AGENDA Magazine, this is my lastscheduled Editor’s Note ...as far as I
know...for now ;)CO-EDITORS
Kathy Reading
The SCAN Group, Inc.
reading@scangroup.net

Like all MPI-WI volunteer experiences,serving in this role has been
tremendously rewarding. I’ve loved
helping to share the story of all aspectsof our chapter’s news, goals, members,
and activities. As I awkwardly statedlast year at our Gala: “You--every oneof you members--WOW me.”Jennifer Mell, CMP
NorthCoast Media Groupjen@northcoastpro.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Naomi Tucker, CMP, HMCC
Kathy Reading
Liz Unruh
David T. Helgeson, CMP
Jody Roos
Sherry Wolff
Jennifer Mell, CMP
Maria Peot, CMP
Sarah Lemmers
Reggie Driscoll, CMP
Michelle Eggert, CMP, CDS
Shannon Timmerman, CMP

I’ve learned that our chapter comprises lifelong learners, trailblazers, andindustry advocates. But, most importantly, we’re all made better througheach other’s support.
As we meet less over the next couple of months, let’s keep up this support!

•••
GRAPHIC DESIGNAnn Shultz, AJS Designs

PUBLICATION DEADLINES
July/August 2022
Deadline: June 15, 2022
September/October 2022
Deadline: August 15, 2022
November/December 2022
Deadline: October 15, 2022••

Share the good news - with job offers as well as goodexperiences. We ALL want to know when an event went well andhow you made it happen!
Share the challenges - We all learn when we face unforeseenchallenges. It helps to rely on our industry-leading members’
experience and creativity.
Planners: Reach out to chapter suppliers (full disclosure: I’m oneof those). Our member suppliers have committed to our industry
and will work to serve you well.
Suppliers: Let’s remember to be generous with our time andsuggestions for planners, regardless of $ results. We’re in this
together!
Remember to tag our chapter and use #MPIWI on social media.
Our members appreciate the notice and will respond.

Thanks for letting me help for the past few years. We’re all excited to see
the fresh perspective that our new AGENDA Magazine team will bring tothis unique publication. I look forward to my next volunteer role with ourincredible chapter. Go MPI-WI!

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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.

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Madison, WI© 2022 Monona Terrace

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12/29/21 11:51 AM

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Connect with us at MononaTerrace.com

The MPI Wisconsin Chapter Nominating Committee has selected the following individuals, whom we believe to havethe skills, dedication and integrity to provide outstanding leadership to our chapter during their term of office. Please beaware that as a member in good standing you have the right to review and challenge the slate of directors as indicatedin the chapter bylaws. If positions remain uncontested, the slate of officers will be considered approved by a unanimous
vote after 30 days. Please congratulate and thank these members for their service.

OFFICERS

The following slate of officers is elected by the Chapter Board of Directors. They are identified in this communication somembers can view the full board proposed for the upcoming term.
Position

Name and Company

Term

President

Rebecca Staats, Residence Inn & Fairfield Inn Eau Claire/
Chippewa Falla

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Immediate Past President

Shannon Timmerman, CMP, Wilderness Territory

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

President-Elect

Reggie Driscoll, CMP, State Bar of Wisconsin

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

VP Communications

Liz Unruh, Positively Pewaukee

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

VP Education

Beth Schnabel, CMP, Filene Research Institute

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

VP FinanceWanda Gilles, veda

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

VP Membership

Sara Beuthien, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

DIRECTORS (BOARD MEMBERS)

The following slate of Board members is elected by the membership of the Chapter. This slate will be deemed elected byunanimous vote unless the slate is challenged as outlined in the chapter bylaws.
Name and Company

Term

Director Awards, Scholarships& Recruitment

Farrah Slinger, Event Essentials

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Member Care

Jody Roos, Wisconsin Bankers Association

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Monthly Programming

Lindsey Hess, CMP, Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Publications &Social Responsibility

Kortnee Carroll, Kalahari Resorts

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Special Education

Elizabeth Poh, La Crosse Center

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Special Events

Ed Buchner, Majic Productions

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Strategic Partners &Sponsorships

Sherry Wolff, American Club Resort Hotel

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Director Digital
Communications

Jessica Rieflin, Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

7/1/22 - 6/30/23

Please direct any questions to: Alison Hutchinson, Nominations Committee Chair at ahutchinson@foxcities.org
A copy of the Chapter bylaws can be viewed at: mpi.org/chapters/wisconsin

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Position

President’s Message

SHANNON TIMMERMAN, CMP
2021-2022 President, MPI-WI Chapter
As I sit here in front of
my fireplace…in April…
(ugh), I am reflecting
on the last 10 monthsof my Presidency,
which is quickly coming to an end. I
am overwhelmed with emotion on somany levels!
GRATITUDE. I am so grateful forthis opportunity, and that I finallyovercame my fears to take on thischallenge. I am grateful for thepeople that believed in me when I
didn’t believe in myself. I am gratefulfor all of the past leaders of thisamazing organization that set us up
for success and put us in a “safe”
place during an industry-altering
pandemic that we prepared for, butnever expected. I am grateful for the
support of my employer, not only
on this journey, but for supporting
my passion for this industry and this
Chapter. I am grateful for my family,
friends, and Steve, who supported

BITTERSWEET. As much as I feared
this role, and the anxiety I faced, I
cannot believe this year is almost
over. I am so happy that I took on thischallenge, and I LOVED every minuteof it! I would never have thought that
I would be sad to see this year end,
but I am. I will miss sitting beside
Alison Hutchinson, who has been an
amazing mentor and friend throughsome pretty dark times! But in thesame breath, I am beyond excited to
see what my friend Rebecca Staats
will bring to our Chapter in the next
year. Her passion, energy, and love
for this Chapter are going to bringgreat things, and I am proud to bealongside her as her IPP!
EXCITEMENT. Excited to pull off
a year of 100% in person events!
And our attendance is growing
each month. This year we tried to
put a focus on adding a networking
component to every event. We kicked
it off with our Gala, which is all about
networking and celebrating us. So
far we had tours and virtual golf bays
in Green Bay, GLES celebrations in
Fort Wayne, Take Flight in the Dells,a DoubleTree debut in Madison,
and Trivia Night in La Crosse. I can’t
wait to see what “Mysteries” May
will bring! And if the results from our

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7

chapter membership survey are any
indication, this is what our members
want to see. After two years of being
apart, being together is priceless.
The excellent education we provide
is just an added bonus! And thefood. And the EIC credits. But really,
networking, to me, is where I get
the most out of this Chapter and mymembership. YOU are why I am filledwith excitement to attend as many
events as I can, and why I call this my
MPI family!
If I can leave you with any words ofadvice…
If you have ever thought about
volunteering, but were afraid to...
Or joining the Board, but were
intimidated…
Or tracked for President, but didn’t
think you “had what it takes” like I did…
Come talk to me! Or any Past
President and/or leader in ourchapter. Honestly, I can say this has
been the most rewarding year, both
personally and professionally, in mylife! I’m almost saddened to be on
the downslide of this journey, but I
know that I have a long ways to go yet
serving as one of our chapter leaders.
I love you all, and I cannot wait see
what the next chapter brings! Thankyou for believing in me!

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me every step of the way, eventhough it took away from my timewith them. And of course, gratefulfor my fellow leaders on the Board(seriously, I have the most AMAZING
team of rock stars!), for Heather
and Christopher Dyer for being our“glue” year after year, and for our
entire MPI-WI Chapter for continuing
to support our chapter by attending
events and volunteering their time.

A Birthday Bashwith MPI-WI Chapter

H

By: Liz Unruh

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ow do we in Wisconsin help celebrate MPI’s 50th Anniversary? We celebrate by giving back to thecommunity. When we were at the La Crosse Center for Spring Education in April, we reached out tothe local food pantries in the La Crosse community. We teamed up with the Wafer House and Hunger
Task Force for this activity. All of our members that attended the event brought items to create
birthday packages for both organizations. We had items such as birthday cake mixes, sprinkles, candles, frosting,gift bags, aluminum pans, balloons, and other birthday decorations. We created homemade cards for each of thebags. The best part was that we were able to support not one, but two different organizations in La Crosse!

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8April Ed-You-Cation Day &Trivia NightR

By: David T. Helgeson, CMP

iddle me this, what do you get when you
combine planners and suppliers witheducation, food, drinks and fun at the La
Crosse Center? You get MPI Wisconsin
Chapter’s Ed-YOU-Cation Day and Trivia Night! This
was a night and day you could not afford to miss.
Situated on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River,the beautiful La Crosse Center played host to ourevents, while giving us outstanding views, food, anddrink. While you were there, you may have even got aglimmer of a bald eagle!
We started with trivia on Wednesday night with ouremcees Ed Buchner from Magic Productions andSherry Benzmiller from Weir Minerals feeding Ed
the questions. The attendees faced off in a battleof smarts in some challenging categories! To win,your team had to have a broad knowledge base that
included everything from our Strategic Partners,
Millennials, gold, to “What’s in Sherry’s Head,” allwhile celebrating MPI’s 50 Years! What a fun filledevening matching wits against our fellow members
only to find out who was truly the “know-it-all” andbragging rights for a full year. By the way, thosehonors go to “Bootz w Fur,” who started slow, butfinished strong. They got to hoist up the coveted
Trivia trophy!
Trivia was not the only thing happening! Several of
our partners donated some great items for our silent
auction. The silent auction started on Wednesday
and finished on Thursday at 1:30 pm. We weretreated with all kinds of outstanding items, such as anovernight stay in Canada to whiskey from Texas. All
the proceeds benefit our chapter and better yet, ourmembership!

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Silent auction transitioned us into the next day.
Even though we had fun after dark in this college
town (“studying” late into the night at The Library),
we still managed to make it to our classes in themorning. After all it was Ed-YOU-Cation, the focus
was YOU! Shawna Suckow started us off with a lookat humanizing
Continued on page 10

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9Continued from page 09

ourselves. The world has changed
from three years ago and she offeredideas to help us look at how we areselling ourselves and what we cando to make us more relevant in ourefforts. After a short break, and furious
bidding wars on the silent auction
items, Alan Kleinfeld led an interactive
session on safety for travelers. It wasa great collaboration of fellow member
experiences as well as his own.

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Following Alan, we embarked on ourcommunity outreach project. We put
together birthday boxes for families
in need to help make their family
member’s birthday something special.
The boxes included cake making items
as well as balloons, decorations, andpersonalized birthday cards. This was
all to benefit the Hunger Task Force of
La Crosse and the Wafer Food Pantryof La Crosse. After lunch, attendees
chose between two breakouts, onewith Alan Kleinfeld discussing crisis
communication and the other with Lisa
Walden discussing how to connect
across the generations. Lisa finished
our day with a closing main session
about how to find balance in a burnout
world and to embrace boundaries.
With more demand from everyone,
she offered suggestions on how tohave balance and make time for selfcare. “You’ve mastered survival mode.
Now, time to LIVE.” A great session
to cap off great events hosted by the
La Crosse Center. Truly an event that
focused on YOU!

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10

MEET IN JANESVILLE, WISCONSIN
64,000 square feet of Overmeeting space Unique venue options
 Great location
 900 clean & comfortable hotel rooms
planning professionals that Meetingprovide exceptional customer service
Lots of Options
Janesville features a variety of versatile meeting venue options including one-of-a-kind natural and historical locations
that are sure to make your meeting distinctive and unforgettable. From meetings held in locations filled with a richhistory such as the Rock County Historical Society’s Lincoln-Tallman House or the The Venue, to meetings surroundedby scenic beauty at the award-winning Rotary Botanical Gardens, to meetings held in a conference center with state-ofthe-art technology, Janesville offers an assortment of meeting spaces. If you’re looking for a fun and unique venue you
may also want to consider one of our breweries, wineries, our beautiful performing arts center or even a local farm.
Customer Service
Our staff at the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is here
to help you every step of the way, from welcome packets and nametags,
to sanitizer stations and signage, to assisting you and your guests inlocating the perfect venue, pavilion or overnight accommodations. Ourservices are completely complimentary

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Location
Located directly off of I-39/90, Janesville is less than one hour frommajor travel hubs Milwaukee, Madison and Rockford, IL, and lessthan 2 hours from Chicago, IL.

janesvillecvb.com · (800) 487-2757  

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May Event Preview

Murder-Mystery, Wine and Double the Education in May!
By: Jody Roos

May MPI WI Chapter &Networking Meeting
Thursday, May 12
Hyatt Regency
Green Bayoin us for the May MPI Wisconsin Chapter Education & Networking Meetingon Thursday, May 12 at the Hyatt Regency Green Bay. Early bird registration isavailable through May 6. We would love to see you!
There’s so much happening for the May event we have to start early! Arrive by 10am
for tours of the KI Center and Hyatt Regency Green Bay. Registration officially kicks
off at 10:30am with networking time up until lunch at 12pm. After lunch, stay for TWO
afternoon education sessions, presented by Ms. Bonnie Carlson, CDME and Mr. Jeff
Hahn. See below for more information on the sessions.
After getting thoroughly educated, stay to enjoy a wine/cheese pairing & murder
mystery reception (with raffle drawings) from 3:30-5:30 p.m., hosted by The DinnerDetective & Hyatt Regency.
Continued on page 13

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12

Continued from page 12

A Do-Not-Miss Chapter Meeting...
Featured presenter is Chair of MPI’s International Board of Directors and President/CEO of the Bloomington, MN
Convention & Visitors Bureau, Ms. Bonnie Carlson, CDME. In a special “State of the Industry” program, Bonnie
will share her insights on the current trends and predictions in the meetings & events industry.

Following Bonnie’s session, Mr. Jeff Hahn of Real World Strategies LLC will
present “Collaborating in Your Communities: A Strategic Approach to
Building Connections and Relationships.” With 30+ years of Fortune 500
financial services and membership/volunteer-based organizational executive
leadership experience, Jeff thrives on helping people and organizations take thatnext step forward toward their larger potential.

Jeff Hahn

Register HERE with just one click.

We look forward to seeing you on May 12!

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MPI Agenda

Bonnie Carlson, CDME

Ms. Carlson has 35 years of industry experience (including 24 years with the
Bloomington, MN CVB) and has made significant contributions to the state’s travelindustry. Bonnie has been at the forefront of the hospitality industry crafting andsupporting policies and initiatives promoting the industry at every level – local,
state, national and international.

|

13

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:
executive CHEF Joe Thomas
Meet Executive Chef
Joe Thomas
Approachable and elevatedculinary arts that produce great
plates start with vision, travel,
experience and creativity. Chef
Joe Thomas uses these four
elements to push the envelope
when developing his creations
while entertaining our guests.
He believes you eat with youreyes and hearts and not just yourmouth when he creates thesecolorful and visually stimulating
culinary art designs.
Chef Joe Thomas is making apresence in the culinary field withnumerous awards. The artistic
freedom displayed on his plates
are show stopping with beautiful
details. Dynamic, accomplishedand charismatic describes his
presence and his desire toshare his knowledge with thecommunity is evident.

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The chef we are proud to callour own here at Hilton Appleton
Paper Valley is paving the way
for a complete culinary emersion
here in Appleton, Wisconsin.

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14

Black Umami Garlic Steak Butter
INGREDIENTSPROCEDURE

Butter

1. Peel garlic bulbs to get cloves, not skin.
2. Saute shallots with butter, until translucent and deglaze

BrandyChives, fine diceParsley, fine chop
Black Umami garlic cloves
Balsamic reduction
Maldon sea salt
Black pepper, groundwith brandy, allow to cool.

3. Using a food processor, blend black garlic with balsamic
reduction to create a paste.

4. Add softened butter to mixing bowl with all otheringredients with paddle attachment until fully
incorporated.

5. Serve alongside your favorite cut of perfectly grilled steak!

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Shallots, fine diceTHE EVENT INDUSTRYCOMEBACK:How you can ramp up properly tocome back strong
By: Naomi Tucker, CMP, HMCC

I

think it’s safe to say that the event industry is roaring
back. We’ve all felt it. The tight-turn requests with ourclients, or the scramble to fill staffing holes on our
team. In many ways, business is coming back in thesame way that it left us – rapidly. So how do you handle
the unavoidable deluge of tasks ahead of you? Here are
5 learnings that I’ve had recently that will help you as
you navigate these tumultuous times.

1. TAKE A DEEP BREATH
Although it seems fundamental, a simple pause liketaking a breath can do wonders for your well-being.
Studies have shown that doing breath exercises, canhave a dramatic affect in reducing your stress, allowing
clarity of thought so that you can make good decisions
for yourself and your business.

My favorite breathing
technique? Take a deep
breath, hold it for 5 seconds,
and exhale slowly. Do this
5 times. It only takes 30
seconds, and you’ll feel somuch better.

execute programs, but we are running into shortfalls.
Evaluating every piece of business to ensure that you
can properly handle the requested service is key toa successful ramp up. Here are some questions thatyou can ask to ensure you are positioning yourself forsuccess:-

2. EVALUATE RISK

Getting back to business in the event industry is exciting
and good. However, we need to rethink how we dobusiness because ramping up in such a quick manner,
can lead to struggles. We’re in a position where weneed seasoned staff to be able to pick right up andAre requested services tasks that my businessis able to take on?
Am I staffed properly for the event or service
that is being requested?
Has my staff been properly trained to manage
this requested service?
Are we being asked to do more than we canhandle in this situation?
Should I take this piece of business now basedon what I have evaluated?

These questions are important for you to have a
successful business while building up staff to be able tohandle more.
Continued on page 17

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16

Continued from page 16

3. TRAIN PROPERLY
We all want to get back to business and get back tothose 2019 margins, however there can be serious
implications from ramping up too quickly before yourteam is properly trained. Take the time to provide yourteam with proper training. Take the time to do thoroughinterviews to ensure that you are bringing on the rightpeople to your team. This will prevent struggles in the
future and ensure flawless execution of our meetingsand events.
Internal policies, procedures, customer etiquette, andteam rapport are crucial to ensure that new employees
are putting their best foot forward for your business andthey are a good representation to anyone your businesstouches. With many new faces coming into the meetingsand event industry right now, it is crucially important totake that opportunity to train correctly and avoid futurerisk.

4. TAKE ADEQUATE BREAKSWhen we are doing so much with limited time andresources it is very easy to get yourself to the point
where you are highly stressed, and even worse, easy
for you to head into a possible burnout. If you feel at any
time that you’re not getting enough rest, or that you areworking too many long hours in a day, maybe it’s timefor you to get some rest. This can be a simple afternoon
off where you practice self-care by taking a walk, getting
a massage, or having some quiet time. Or it may meanthat you need put in some vacation time so that you can
get the abundance of rest to get in a position where you
can sustain this next season.
What is being asked of us is a lot, and we are so
passionate about our industry that we want to see
it get back to where it was, but we can’t do that at
the detriment of our own self-care. So this is a great
reminder to take the time that you need.

5. EXPLORE CREATIVE SOLUTIONS
We are saying goodbye to many in the industry as theyleave this season in their careers, yet there are others
that are ready to move forward with us by taking theirfirst steps into this world. So you may have to explore
creative solutions in order to bring fresh energy andfresh perspective onto your team.

May/June 2022

Look at those resumes closely in these times.
Interesting trends are emerging that could bemeaningful to your business. For example, let’s notforget about our students that are in meetings andevent management programs in the state. These are
great trained resources for you to lean on during thistime. Additionally, there are a lot more teachers that areinterested in entering the event planning space, and thatmight be a unique blend. We are also seeing individuals
that have learned much through the pandemic and are
possibly ready for their next step up in the industry, so
you might consider them for a promotion or a new role.
Not only is this the Great Resignation period, it is also a
Great Reshuffling because many people are looking todo things differently, so as a leader in this industry be
open to those opportunities for others.
FINAL THOUGHTSIt is my hope that this article gave you some fresh
perspective on how to ramp up properly as we are in thecenter of the industry come back. Let’s move forward
and get to a place in which we are better than we werea few years ago. The people by your side may lookdifferent but the business of meetings is still strong, so
well wishes to you and building up your businesses andbuilding up your teams for this new era in events.

Naomi Tucker, CMP, HMCC
Naomi Tucker, CMP, HMCC is a Global Event
Professional of 25+ Years, Past President of Meeting
Professionals International Wisconsin Chapter, AccountDirector at Meetings & Incentives Worldwide, Inc andFounder of Planners on Purpose. Naomi loves to share
her accumulated knowledge of events and learning in
the industry, thrives on event strategy, and reducing
burnout for event planners and organizations.

MPI Agenda|

17Registration Open Soon!
MPI.org/Wisconsin
May/June 2022

MPI Agenda|

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Join us August 11th
as we celebrate
MPI’s 50 year anniversary and ourmembers who have contributed
in meaningful and inspiring ways at the
MPI-Wisconsin annual awards gala!

After a long meeting, it’s nice to know
there’s a beer garden nearby.

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Coming in 2024, our expanded convention center
will offer 445,000 sq. ft. of space. Discover it all at
visitmilwaukee.org/meet or scan the QR code.

VM_MC_Beergarden_MPI_FP.indd 1

May/June 2022

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3/31/22 2:14 PM

President & CEO
Red Dog Resources LLC

Danielle wasnominated forthis issue’s
VolunteerSpotlight by
President Elect
Rebecca Staats.

ON THE EDGE
OF CHICAGOAND IN THE
MIDDLE OF
EVERYTHING.

Danielle is an exceptional volunteer for our chapter that we would
like to recognize and whose praises we could not sing more! She is
the Speaker Team Lead and has been helping the MPI-Wisconsin
Chapter secure quality education speakers since she agreed tolead the team in September 2021. Danielle, having served on the
Board of Directors in the area of Education in the past, is extremely
knowledgeable about the process of researching and contracting
speakers, while ensuring they meet the Events Industry Council’s
continuing education accreditation requirements. Danielle has a cando-attitude and hosts her monthly Speaker Team meetings with asmile and concise agenda. During Danielle’s time leading the team,the MPI-Wisconsin Chapter has maintained an impressively higheducation satisfaction score, which year-to-date is 4.89 on a 5-point
scale, and our chapter is on track to earn a merit award from MPI
Global. A great big thank you to Danielle and her entire Speaker
Team for their hard work and dedication behind the scenes inbringing back our MPI-Wisconsin in-person events with a bang!

WHERE YOUARE THECENTER OF
OUR UNIVERSE.

Conveniently located adjacent to O’Hare International
Airport, Chicago Northwest is an event planner’s dream.
With over 60 hotels and 10,000 guest rooms, we give
your group budget-friendly options without sacrificing
service.

Easier.
More Profitable.
Entertainment Rich.
Up to $3,000 Cash Back.

ChicagoNorthwest.com/
incentive
May/June 2022

MPI Agenda|

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Volunteer Spotlight:
Danielle Ziegler

DANIELLE ZIEGLER,
CMP, CVT, CNAP

17748_Kalahari_2022 Group Sales_WI_Corporate
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experience to delight. With a full-service spa, a new piano bar andworld-class dining options, Kalahari has everything you need toensure your event is successful.

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

May/June 2022

MPI Agenda|

21

Reggie Driscoll
VP Education

What are your hobbies and interests?
I love traveling when possible. Otherwise,
just about anything outside. I love towalk, bike, tour, and have recently started
kayaking.
Tell us about your family: I come froma family of six kids. My mother, all of us
kids and 10 of my 11 nieces and nephews
all live in the Madison area. We are allvery close and we still have coffee at mymother’s place every Sunday.

Tell us about the company you work for
and/or your position: The State Bar of
Wisconsin is a professional association for
all 25,000+ attorneys who hold a Wisconsin
law license. Our team of two contract all
events, conventions, trade shows, meetings
etc. held outside of our Madison office.

Favorite song/band/artist: I like mostkinds of music. Josh Groban, Grateful
Dead, Pink Floyd and even some morecurrent stuff.
Person you admire and why: My motheris one of the strongest people I know. She’s
85 years old and still working two daysa week. She’s always patient and evenkeeled. Growing up with all of us kids, mealplanning, traveling, keeping us in sports andactivities, etc., she is naturally the ultimate
planner.

How long have you been in themeetings industry? 20+ years, 15 years
at the State Bar
Tell us a few things about your role on
our Chapter Board: Our team contracts
with the facilities around the state for our
education meetings, the Awards Gala, andthe Spring Education day.

What is something that is still on yourbucket list? There are two places where
I would still like to visit - Ireland andAustralia.

What drew you to serve on our Chapter
Board? This is my 3rd year on the board.
After so many years of benefiting from thisassociation, I felt it was my time to giveback and see where I can add to othermembers’ experiences.

Tell us your words to live by or share afavorite quote: I like the saying “Onward
and upward!”

What do you enjoy about your board
service, and what are you learning? It isreally amazing to see how the board, thisclose-knit group of people from all aspectsof the industry, can move forward to
improve the industry as a whole.

May/June 2022

MPI Agenda

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Board Member Profile:
Reggie Driscoll

Senior Meeting Professional
State Bar of Wisconsin|

22

MPI WISCONSIN
ANNIVERSARIESCongratulations to those members celebrating a milestone anniversary
in May & June!

Congratulations!

20 YEAR

15 YEARCARMEN SMALLEY, CMP, CHE

REGGIE DRISCOLL, CMP

Milwaukee Area Technical College

10 YEAR
KATHY READINGThe Scan Group, Inc.

State Bar of Wisconsin

JOELLEN GRABER

Brava Salon Specialists

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to our new members!
JENNIFER BIRKEL
Generac
Planner

VICTORIA DONAHUE
Impact Association Management
Planner

May/June 2022

EMILY SHAW
PlannerBack to table of contents

MONICA MUELLER
Visit Waukesha
Planner

DANNIEL KACZOROSKI
Generac
Planner

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Senior Convention Sales Manager
Destination Madison

Tell us about your family:
I come from a very tightknit family,
despite the distance. My parents livein Neenah, and my older brother lives
in South Lake Tahoe and my younger
brother lives in Dallas. My pup Siena
and I live in Fitchburg.
Where were you born?
Neenah, WI – home of the manhole
covers!
Where do you currently live?
Fitchburg, WI
What are your hobbies?
Traveling, boating, hiking, going tosporting events/concerts, and spendingtime with family and friends.
Favorite musical group/book/movie:
I love all types of music, but I would haveto say O.A.R or Nelly.
Person you admire and why:
I always have and will admire myparents. They are supportive, hardworking, patient, a blast to be with, andmost of all there for me when I needthem. They worked hard to give mybrothers and I a great life and I will
forever be grateful for them.

How long in the meetings industry?
Six years
Tell a bit about your company and/or
current position:
Destination Madison drives economic
impact through tourism. Our mission is toinspire a love for Madison, and our vision
is that Madison is a place for all. We
attract leisure visitors, conventions andsporting events to the area, and partnerwith local businesses to position Madison
as one of the world’s most vibrant andinnovative places to live, work and visit.

Dream vacation:
It has always been my dream to go on an
African Safari.
If I won the lottery I would:
I would buy a yacht and cruise aroundthe world for the next year…or two.
Words to live by:“In the end, we only regret the chances
we didn’t take.” – Lewis Carroll

As a Senior Convention SalesManager, I promote and sell Madison
as a destination for conventions,conferences, and meetings by building/maintaining relationships with new andexisting groups.

May/June 2022

MPI Agenda|“When we strive to become better than
we are, everything around us becomes
better too.” – Paulo Coelho

24

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Supplier Profile: Sarah Lemmers

SARAH LEMMERS

Compiled by Jennifer Mell, CMP, Maria Peot, CMP & Kathy Reading

MELISSA FALENDYSZ,CMP started a new job
with BCD Meetings &Events, as an Event Program
Manager for ExxonMobil.
Melissa is excited about this newopportunity to build on her event
career, and the BCD team will gaina wealth of knowledge.
Keep working your magic, Melissa!

BETH SCHNABEL,
CMP, CED, CUDE wasrecently featured in the“Planner Tips” section of Wisconsin
Meetings. Along with promoting thevalue of professional MPI training,
Beth shares her expert belief that“the power of connection is more
important than ever…”
We couldn’t agree more, Beth!

TAMARA JESSWEIN,
CMP, VEMM andhubby, Ron, have a new
grandson! Parents Grayson andJack welcomed Lincoln in earlyFebruary, and this kiddo is full oflove! We send support to the family
as Papa Jack is once again off toserve our country in the US Army.
A grateful group is behind Lincoln
and his family. This we’ll defend!

SHANNON TIMMERMAN,
CMP and boyfriend Steve
recently purchased thehouse they have been renting
outside of the Wisconsin Dells.
In addition to the pups making
themselves at home, thegorgeous lion painting from past
MPI-WI education speaker Sam
Glenn, has a found its home on
the wall of the living room.

4

1

5

2

Congratulations on making your house a beautiful home!

JOSHUA WIMMER started
a new job with Bartolotta
Catering and Events as
Catering Manager at Discovery
World. Josh brings stellar
experience and education within
the meetings and events industry,
with an emphasis on banquets andcatering.
Keep serving success, Josh!

SARAH LEMMERS has
accepted a promotion to
Senior Convention SalesManager at Destination Madison.
With more than six years on thisvital Madison CVB team, Sarah
has never been more ready to leadin this role.
Thanks for sharing Madison’s
unmistakable character, Sarah!

3

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May/June 2022

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6Compiled by Jennifer Mell, CMP, Maria Peot, CMP & Kathy Reading

Chompers was recently
promoted to Star
Hamster with NorthCoastMedia Group. His fastidious
qualities and alert nature makehim an excellent fit for thisposition. Keep charming us,
Chompers!

7

Wilderness Resort(Wisconsin Dells) has
announced changes
for 2022, including multi-level
additions to their Wild West
Waterpark and renovations fortheir 446 guest rooms. At thecinematic Take Flight, they’re
introducing the new World Flightadventure, which will take people on a journey flying overglobal and remote destinations. Launching in late summer,
MISSION: MARS will take participants on an “escapeadventure” journey to Mars with just 30 minutes to complete
the challenge.

9

The Hilton Appleton Paper Valley has officiallyopened as the newest full-service Hilton Hotel in
Wisconsin. Formerly the Red Lion Hotel Paper
Valley, this iconic Appleton hotel completed renovations
including the lobby, meeting spaces, restaurants and 388
guest rooms.

8

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NOTE: if you have any news to share in thiscolumn, please contact Maria Peot, Director Publications & Community Outreach,maria.peot@gmail.com.

May/June 2022

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26

What do you like most about being amember of MPI? Having previously servedon the Board of Directors, I appreciate thepartnerships and friendships establishedduring that time, that have continued over
20 years.
What was your favorite team or project
you have worked on for MPI, or what areaof the Chapter do you hope to become
involved with? I enjoyed working on theMembership Team earlier in my tenure with
MPI. Meeting guests and new members andworking to retain members was very fulfilling.
Tell us about your family: 2021 brought the
expansion of my family with two “little” (but
grand!) additions – Ceci, now one year old,
and, Walker, nine months, who joined Eliza,
already four. We also have two grandchildren
in their tweens/teens. This year my husband,
Bill, finally decided to close his business andenjoy Wisconsin weather.

Tell us about your company and/or
position: ConferenceDirect is a fullservice global meetings solution company
that assists with site selection, conference
management, housing and registration, toplanning the perfect incentive program.
Thriving on helping organizations achieve
their sales goals and enhance theirmarketing message, I strive to provide
value to my clients through personalized
customer service and meticulous contract
review. Having negotiated over 1,500
hotel and convention center contracts
during my tenure, I assist with site search
to contract negotiations, managing hotel
room audits, concession obligations,and on-site conference management
including food and beverage selection
and budgeting, audio visual management,
meeting room sets, transportation, off-site
activities, spousal events, and décor.

What are your hobbies and interests?
I took up knitting after a 25 year hiatus nine
years ago, and haven’t stopped since. I
enjoy anything outdoors in the sunshine:
hiking, fishing, or just sitting. And any day
with my grandkids is a good day!
Favorites!
Song: Fightsong by Rachel Platten
Artists: Billy Joel & Paul Simon
Movies: The Sound of Music, West Side
Story, Shall We Dance, and The Greatest
Showman (notice a theme here??)Book: Do I have to read?

How long have you been in themeetings industry? Over 35 years in theindustry and as an independent contractor
for 21 years.

Tell us the words you live by or share afavorite quote: To quote my mom, “If you
can’t come see me when I’m alive, don’tcome see me when I’m dead.” Which I
always thought was an odd thing to tell my
brothers and me – until I realized how true
it is. Take time while you’re able to spend itwith the people important to you, because
you don’t know when those times will stop.

What drew you to become a planner?
I’ve always been a planner at heart andwas fortunate to have the support frommy husband and parents to follow mypassion.
May/June 2022

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Planner Profile: Michelle Eggert

MICHELLE EGGERT, CMP, CDS
Director of Global Accounts
Independent Contractor with
ConferenceDirect

WEC Heads to Sunny San FranBy: Sherry Wolff

transformed into Play Zones, Campfires, and Labs.
I’m looking forward to a brilliant lineup of speakers
and experts. There will be a shift in presentation style,which will incorporate more interactive and collaborative
learning experiences.

What better way to celebrate MPI’s 50th golden
anniversary than to spend it in the Golden state?

I’ll be there, will you?

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From June 21st through 23rd, the World Education
Congress (WEC) will be hosted in San Francisco,California. Expect a dynamic 2.5 days of sharededucation and experiences. This year promises someexciting and playful changes. Breakout sessions will be

Speaking of experiences, WEC throws the BESTparties! This year, the opening celebration is at Oracle
Park, home to the San Francisco Giants (going, going,gone!), the President’s Dinner at Union Square andfinally, my favorite… Rendezvous at the historic andiconic City Hall – no objections here! I believe thisis poised to be one of the most memorable WEC
experiences yet.

May/June 2022

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This issue of the AGENDA Magazine is lovingly dedicatedto our dear MPI-WI family member Amanda Ridout who
peacefully passed on April 30th, 2022

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
2022 CHAPTER EVENTSTime to get excited for 2022 and all of our MPI-WI Chapter events!
2022 is in full swing! This year’s in-person events are bound to be great experiences.

MAY 12EDUCATION EVENT — Hyatt Regency Green Bay
AUGUST 11
AWARDS GALA — Hilton Appleton Paper Valley (formerly Red Lion)

OCTOBERBREAKFAST EVENT — DoubleTree by Hilton Milwaukee-Brookfield
NOVEMBER 13 – 15
GREAT LAKES EDUCATION SUMMIT — Grand Geneva

May/June 2022

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SEPTEMBER 22
EDUCATION EVENT — The Ingleside Hotel, Waukesha