SEP
OCT
2023
VOL 45/NUM 5

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

TWO PROPERTIES,ENDLESS POSSIBILITIESBook your meeting at The Madison Concourse Hotel or The Ingleside Hotel!

You can do a lot with 27,000 square feet of meeting space.
The Madison Concourse Hotel and Governor’s Club is the largest
convention hotel in Madison. The modern, flexible space is perfectfor everything from large conventions to small strategic planningsessions, and it’s located in the heart of downtown Madison, steps
from dozens of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

1 W Dayton St, Madison WI • 800 356 8293 • concoursehotel.com

With over 40,000 square feet of meeting space, 20 private event
venues, and 40 breezy outdoor acres, The Ingleside Hotel offers arefreshing change of pace from conventional destinations.
Come experience Lake Country hospitality at its natural, vibrant best.
Plan your next event in the flexible, unique space and enjoy
an inspirational setting unlike any other in the Milwaukee area.

2810 Golf Rd, Pewaukee WI • 800 247 6640 • theinglesidehotel.com
September/October 2023

MPI Agenda|

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SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2023

MPI-WISCONSIN
2023-2024
BOARD OF DIRECTORSVOL 45 / NUM 5

Feature Articles

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

2023 Great Lakes Education Summit Preview

10

PRESIDENT-ELECTLIZ UNRUH
Positively Pewaukee
liz@positivelypewaukee.com

October Event Preview

14

A Customer Service Company that Just Happens to Do Events

16

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENTREBECCA STAATS
Residence Inn & Fairfield by Marriott Eau Claire
rebecca.l.staats@gmail.com

Oh What a Night!

18

2022-2023 Award Winners

22

GLES Preview

232023 MPI Wisconsin Summer Social

24

Bidding for Good

24

VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP
BETH SCHNABEL, CMPFilene Research Institutebeths@filene.org

In Every Issue

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE
SARA BEUTHIEN
WEDC
sara.beuthien@wedc.org
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 PROJECTSELIZABETH POH
La Crosse Center
epoh@lacrossecenter.com
DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL EVENTSED BUCHNER
Majic Productions
ebuchner@majicpro.com
DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC PARTNERS & SPONSORSHIPSKATIE RAGAN
Wisconsin Center Districtkragan@wcd.org
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER CAREJODY ROOS
Wisconsin Bankers Association
jroos@wisbank.com
DIRECTOR OF AWARDS, SCHOLARSHIPS & RECRUITMENT
KATHY READINGThe SCAN Groupreading@scangroup.net

Editor’s Note		4

President’s Message

6

Food for Thought: Chef Starkey

15

Anniversaries / New Members			

26

Who’s in the News					

27Volunteer Spotlight			

28

Board Member Profile: Kathy Reading

30

Who’s in the News

33

Save the Date

34

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

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS & SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
CHERYL OSWALD
CNH Industrial
cheryl.oswald@cnhind.com
DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONSGRETA MCCUE
Aloft Milwaukee Downtown
greta.mccue@aloftmilwaukeedowntown.com
DIRECTOR OF MONTHLY PROGRAMMING
LINDSEY HESS, CMPUW-Madisonlindsey_hess@outlook.com

4075 Vilas Road

fax: 608.204.9818

Cottage Grove, WI 53527

email: admin@mpiwi.org

tel: 608.204.9816

web: www.mpiweb.org/wisconsin

September/October 2023

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Editor’s Note
Happy New MPI Year! Thank you to everyone
for all your hard work and consistent support.
MPI is a team effort that takes a village to be
this awesome. It is fantastic how closely all theteams work together to make MPI the success
it is today.

Published bimonthly by
Meeting Professionals International –Wisconsin Chapter

EDITORSTyler Priefer
Generactyler.priefer@generac.com
Pam Lohnes
Metropolitan Builders Associationof Greater Milwaukee
pam@mbabuilds.org

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jennifer Hasty
Stacey Lancour
Meredith Commender, CSEP
Kortnee Carroll
Reggie Driscoll, CMP
Danniel Kaczoroski
Samantha Garcia
Maria Peot, CMP
Kathy Reading

GRAPHIC DESIGNAnn Shultz, AJS Designs

PUBLICATION DEADLINES
November/December 2023
Deadline: October 15, 2023
January/February 2024
Deadline: December 15, 2023

Welcome to the new members! The opportunities this chapter has to offer are endless. There
are many chances for networking, building new
relationships, and learning new information. If
you are interested in volunteering, I would highly recommend it! You will learn more about MPI,
time management, and organization. If you have any questions about volunteering,feel free to reach out, any member will assist you!
A little over a year ago, I joined MPI and began volunteering after my first gathering.
I started on the Education Committee, then transferred to the Agenda team!
Everyone I have met and worked with is beyond welcoming and amazing! We are
one lucky chapter.
We all would like to give a huge round of applause to all the winners of the gala!
Every award was well deserved, and your hard work does not go unrecognized.
Congratulations to all the nominees!
The Best Western Premier Hotel did a fantastic job hosting our group, and it was abeautiful location. The view of the Capitol - WOW!!! After that night, my camera roll
was full of pictures of how pretty the Capitol looked during the day and night. The
Gala Planning Committee really knocked it out of the park with their decorations
and silent auction items. Can’t wait to attend next year’s gala!
I am looking forward to the upcoming events in the next few months! We have
Stevens Point in October and Michigan in November for the exciting GLES. It isalways great to see who the speaker team brings in to fill our time with knowledge,
laughs, and takeaways for our events. Of course, it is great to see everyone as well.
Lastly, I would like to thank the education team and the Agenda team for allowing
me to jump right into volunteering as a new member of MPI. Everyone on eachteam has been helpful and easy to work with!

March/April 2024
Deadline: February 15, 2024

Tyler Priefer

September/October 2023

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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.

MPI Agenda|

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The annual business dinner was billed
as “The Next Big Thing.” And the organizer
wanted us to make it a can’t miss experience.
Inspired by our panoramic views of the lakeand state capitol, our AV team createdan all-new 180° of amazing.

Let us orchestrate your incredible.
Connect with us at MononaTerrace.com© 2023 Monona Terrace

September/October 2023

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Cue the surround sound.

Madison, WIPresident’s Message
Well, Hello again!
Holy cow, what a great night we had for the Capitol Soiree Gala. It was outstanding tosee such a mix of current members and past members. Many of whom are still involved in
the industry in one way or another. Such great people that many of us have learned fromthroughout the years. These folks, or any long-term member, can be a great resource fornew members. If you have any contact with a past or present member, feel free to connect
with them. I am positive that they’ll be willing to help out. If you surround yourself withamazing people, you can’t help but learn and grow.
The Best Western Premier Park Hotel was a wonderful host. Many thanks to their team for
all that they did. The Afterglow, sponsored by Destination Madison, at the Top of the Parkwas beautiful. It felt like you could reach out and touch the Capitol building. (No, we didn’t
actually attempt this :)There is a quote that I love.
If you can find a path with no
obstacles, it probably doesn’tlead anywhere.
— Frank A Clark
This quote relates to us
in this industry. Our jobs
usually include many
obstacles… and we love it.

There is a quote that I love. “If you can find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn’tlead anywhere.” — Frank A. Clark. This quote relates to us in this industry. Our jobs usually
include many obstacles… and we love it. We choose to be in this industry and take pride in the
obstacles that we are able to overcome. Working in this industry, we are usually on the ridgededge of our comfort zone. Each new event or client brings a new set of ideas and options that
we bring to fruition in a seamless manner. There are people outside of our industry that think
we’re crazy for what we put up with week after week, but for us it is the only way to learn andgrow. It is our ability to use our experience and knowledge to lead during these challenges that
set us apart from many other industries. Choosing this industry, even with the obstacles andchallenges, enables us to be proud of what we are doing.
In October we will be at the Inn at SentryWorld in Stevens Point for the first time ever. The Inn
opened a year ago in April. This event starts on Wednesday, October 18th with networking
and fieldhouse games, and then we top off the night at the Great Northern Distillery. Our
speaker, Meredith Commender, will wake us up and get us motivated. Remember that theeducation session on Thursday will be breakfast and a morning presentation, finishing up
around noon.
Once again, thank you so much for allowing me the opportunity to serve as your president
during this term. I am excited to have this opportunity to learn and grow myself. ept

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MPI-WI Chapter President
Reggie Driscoll, CMPThe Gala is a way to celebrate the last year and to show how far we have come in the last
12 months. Congrats to all the award winners. Check out the article in this issue for thecomplete list. This is also our starting block for the upcoming year and all that we would liketo accomplish. As always, maintaining and increasing our membership and attendance arealways on our minds. The RFP team is working diligently to complete the contracts for the2024 year. Once all contracts are complete, we’ll publish a list. There are many moving parts
to this effort, so once we have it all tied up, we’ll share it with everyone. There are many new
and fresh facilities that we are working with. Shout out to the RFP team.

September/October 2023

MPI Agenda|

6September/October 2023

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MEETINGSLAKESIDE

Lake Lawn Resort’s timeless charm and breathtaking surroundings create
an unforgettable backdrop for corporate gatherings. Whether it’s a retreat,team-building workshop, or annual conference, the resort offers a range ofversatile venues with over 32,000 square feet of space to cater to the needsof companies of all sizes. Attendees can relax in one of our 271 guest
rooms and enjoy leisure activities such as a late season round of golf at
Majestic Oaks, fall color boat tours on a private charter, spa services at theaward-winning Calladora Spa, shopping and indulging in one of our many
dining destinations including our signature 1878 on the Lake.

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LAKELAWNRESORT.COM | 800.338.5253 | 2400 East Geneva Street | Delavan, Wisconsin 53115

1. Choose an accessible venue.

Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are all examplesof facility features that can make attendees more comfortable.
Choose locations that are conveniently located and wellconnected to public transportation, making it easier for
attendees from different areas to reach the event.

2. Discuss DE&I goals with vendors and suppliers.

The organizations you work with should help you reach yourgoals and objectives. Start by implementing badges that areeasy to read from afar, accommodating dietary needs andrestrictions, adding mocktail options to happy hour, and using
gender-inclusive language when addressing the crowd.

3. Incorporate diverse programming.

Seek out speakers, panelists, and exhibitors from various
backgrounds who can share unique perspectives andexperiences with your audience. Including a wide rangeof voices, genders, ethnicities, and cultures will enrichdiscussions and empower attendees to see themselves
reflected in the event’s content.

4. Cultivate an inclusive atmosphere.

Require attendees to agree to a non-discrimination policy
and anti-harassment policy upon registering for the event.
This holds everyone accountable for upholding a safe
environment.

5. Facilitate meaningful interactions.

Kick off your event with icebreaker activities or networking
sessions that encourage people to connect beyond
their familiar circles. Group discussions, workshops, orbrainstorming sessions are surefire ways to create a sense ofcommunity.

6. Help attendees visually display pronouns.

Part of being an ally is not making assumptions about aperson’s identity or pronouns based on their appearance orname. One way to show your allyship is to provide pronounbadge ribbons at registration for attendees to stick to theirbadges, if they choose.

7 Ways to Support
Diversity andInclusion at Events

7. Understand your audience and their needs.

Sponsored by pc/nametag®

Designing events with diversity in mind is not just a trend; it isa necessary approach to celebrating the uniqueness of every
person in attendance.

September/October 2023

Visit tag/talk, an educational blog for planners, atblog.pcnametag.com to find more weekly tips, freeresources, and expert advice to help you become amore informed professional.

MPI Agenda|

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Planners are always looking for ways to make their
meetings and events better places to be. Help attendees
feel welcome with the following seven strategies for
hosting inclusive events that make an impact.

The foundation of any inclusive event is understanding
the diversity of the people who plan to attend. Consider
factors such as age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, andlanguage preferences of attendees. This information will help
you tailor the experience to the needs of your audience.

Lock in the
Memories
Create unforgettable moments with
our vibrant, secure, and budget-friendly
wristband solutions.

pcnametag.com • 800.369.8622

September/October 2023

*Savings apply to merchandise only; gift cards and charges for shipping, processing andsales tax are excluded. No cash value or credit back. Limit one offer per customer. Cannot be
combined with any other offers.

MPI Agenda|

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Shop custom and blank wristbands
at pcnametag.com/wristbands

2023 Great Lakes Education Summit
November 12-14, 2023
Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport
Grand Rapids, Michigan
By: Jennifer Hasty

Get ready for an incredible experience at the upcoming Great
Lakes Education Summit! This year, we’re gathering in the
picturesque Grand Rapids, Michigan, and let me tell you, ourspeaker lineup is nothing short of fantastic!
Brace yourself for Robin Shear’s captivating presentation
on overflowing your joy bucket with real connection. You’llknow how to have more joy in your life after this fun andheartfelt presentation about cultivating relationships.
Because connection can be a rich source of joy evenwhen we are down and out, you’ll be inspired by stories oftimes that real connection was shared despite the odds,
differences, and lack of resources. You’ll want to reachout to the people in your path, finding unity and joy that’s
contagious.

But wait, there’s more! Are you looking to amplify yourbrand and connect with a powerhouse trio of chapters from
Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin? Become a StrategicPartner for this year’s event and get ready to harness the
combined buying power of over $242.8 million! By joining
us as a 2023 GLES Partner, you’ll not only gain exposureand networking opportunities but also contribute to theeducational enrichment of all GLES attendees.
Hosted at the Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport, the 2023 Great
Lakes Education Summit will help kick-start a new season ofrelationships and business throughout the Midwest. Join us
as we CONNECT, ENGAGE, and INSPIRE.

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Join Princess Castleberry - Pro Speaker and CEO at
Beyond Well, as she emcees our event and provides anengaging breakout session that equips meeting planners

with foundational risk management practices. Gain practicaltechniques to identify, assess, and mitigate risks that can
impact your event. Discover strategies to minimize financial
risks, protect your reputation, and maximize attendee safety
and satisfaction.

September/October 2023

MPI Agenda|

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SERVICE & SPACECOME
TOGETHER AT THE
SERVICE&WILDERNESSSPACECOME TOGETHER AT THE WILDERNESSWhen our five-star meeting spaces match our unparalleled service, your meetingis sure to be a success. From finding you the perfect accommodations to making
sure
runs
smoothly
and match
giving yourteam a chance
to unwind
when
Whenyourourevent
five-starmeeting
spacesour unparalleledservice,your meeting
things
wrap
up,
we’ll
make
sure
it
all
comes
togetherattheWilderness.
is sure to be a success. From finding you the perfect accommodations to making
sure your event runs smoothly and giving your team a chance to unwind whenthings wrap up, we’ll make sure it all comes together at the Wilderness.

FIVE-STAR SPACES

With facilities to accommodate groups of 12 to 1,200, we have the spaces you
FIVE-STARSPACESneedfor groups large
and small. And if you need technology, AV equipment,catering,
or
specialaccommodations
forofyourarrange
With facilities to accommodate groups
12 toevent,1,200,ourwestaff
havecanthehelp
spaces
you
the
right
room
and
set
up
for
your
needs.
need for groups large and small. And if you need technology, AV equipment,catering, or special accommodations for your event, our staff can help arrange
the right room and set up for your needs.

ACCOMMODATIONSThe Wilderness Territory consists of 1,155 rooms spread over 600 wooded acres
ACCOMMODATIONS
in Wisconsin Dells. So there’s room for everyone – and their families – to rest theirheads
after a successful
Attendees
can spreadenjoy lodging
optionsfrom
twoTheWilderness
Territory meeting.
consists of
1,155 rooms
over 600
woodedacres
bedroomvillas,luxurious
lake
view
condos,andthreetofivebedroom
cabinsin Wisconsin Dells. So there’s room for everyone – and their families – to rest theirin
additioncomfortable
hotel rooms
surrounding
theresort’soptions
eight waterparks.
heads
after toa successful
meeting.
Attendees
can enjoy
lodgingfrom twobedroom villas, luxurious lake view condos, and three- to five- bedroom cabinsin addition to comfortable hotel rooms surrounding the resort’s eight waterparks.

HOPE YOU’RE HUNGRY

You’ll find seven on-site dining options to choose from ranging from upscale
HOPE
YOU’REHUNGRY
four-star dining
to casual
sports bars and everything in between.
You’ll find seven on-site dining options to choose from ranging from upscale
four-star dining to casual sports bars and everything in between.

56,000 Sq. Ft.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

1,155 Lodging Units
56,000 Sq. Ft.
Free Parking
1,155 Lodging UnitsGrand Ballrooms
Free Parking
Break Out Rooms
Grand Ballrooms
On-Site Catering
Break Out Rooms
Golf Course
On-Site Catering
World-Class Spa
Golf Course
8 Waterparks
World-Class Spa
Part of Wilderness Resort…
8 Waterparks
America’s Largest Waterpark Resort!

Looking to take your meeting out of the boardroom, or maybe you’re planning
THAN
MEETS
THE
EYE
aMORE
team bonding
retreat?
Bring yourgroup
to Wild Rock Golf Club, the resort’s
championshipgolf
coursedesignedbythesame course
architects
as thesite of
Looking to take your meeting out of the boardroom,or maybe
you’replanning
the
2017
U.S.
Open.
And
if
you’relooking
at
clearing
yourheads,
youcanunwinda team bonding retreat? Bring your group to Wild Rock Golf Club, the resort’s
at the secludedgolf
SundaraInn& Spa – byonetheof sameAmerica’s
Toparchitects
10 destination
championshipcoursedesignedcourseas thespas.
site ofthe 2017 U.S. Open. And if you’re looking at clearing your heads, you can unwind
at the secluded Sundara Inn & Spa – one of America’s Top 10 destination spas.
GET MORE INFORMATION OR
START PLANNING YOUR MEETING.

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GET MORE INFORMATION OR
511
E. Adams
START
PLANNING YOUR MEETING.
Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965(608)E.253-9729
511
Adams
Wisconsin
Dells, WI 53965
sales@wildernessresort.com

Partof Wilderness Resort…
WildernessResort.com
America’s
Largest Waterpark
800-867-9453(WILD)Resort!
WildernessResort.com
800-867-9453 (WILD)(608)
253-9729
WildernessResort.com
sales@wildernessresort.com
WildernessResort.com
September/October 2023

MPI Agenda|

11Elevate your next business meeting at

Your place on the lakeTM

Y Multiple Restaurants and Bars
Y 38,000 sq. ft. of Meeting Spaces
Y Team Building Activities
Y Experienced Planning Partners
Y Aspira Spa

Y World-Class Meeting Technology
Y Cooking School
Y Beautiful Suites
Y Low 20% Service Fee

Y Lake Experiences
ELKHART LAKE, WI

For more information on The Osthoff Resort, scan the QR Code,visit osthoff.com/meetings or call 888.748.1136.

Start planning for your next meeting or eventin the Fox Cities. With a wide variety ofspaces and places, we have the perfect venue
to inspire any group to get down to business.

Ask about our incentives
starting at $500
for events booked andheld in the Fox Cities.

September/October 2023

MPI Agenda|

Contact Alison Hutchinson at
ahutchinson@foxcities.org
to plan your original event.

12

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Connect in the Fox Cities

Back to table of contents

MAJICPRO.COM• 414.839.1760
September/October
2023 MPI Agenda

|

13

T T
C
O EN WEV EVIE
PR

Join us for October’s networking event at SentryWorld in Stevens Point –a premier golf and event destination in central Wisconsin!

By: Stacey Lancour

Thursday, October 19, will feature a morning education program with a frequent and sought after presenter at MPI,
NACE, and ILEA programs, Meredith Commender, CSEP.
Meredith will share her experiences and expertise in her

September/October 2023

program Improving Your Event Industry Relationships,
Cultural Awareness, and Event Day Logistics. In this wideranging session, we’ll analyze many ways you can strengthen
and enhance your role, processes, and knowledge in yourarea of the meetings and events industry.
Following the education program, experience the best
SentryWorld has to offer by touring the boutique hotel,
championship golf course – recent host to the 43rd U.S.
Senior Open – and multiple unique banquet spaces to meet
all your event needs. Bonus: Participate in a course andfacility tour and you’ll receive free swag!

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rrive Wednesday, October 18, for a relaxing eveningof activities in SentryWorld’s 50,000-square-footFieldhouse – their largest and most versatile
event space! You’ll have the opportunity to
network with peers, play a game of pickleballor cornhole, and enjoy a delicious spread handpicked bySentryWorld’s talented chefs.

FOOD for thought: CHEF Starkey
EXECUTIVE CHEF STARKEYNEW ORLEANS STYLE GUMBO

ROUX
1 cup of flour
2/3 cup of clarified butter

Upon graduation, Starkey worked in Hawaii gaining training at
the Westin Hotel, Maui, and then at the Plantation Inn, Gerard’s
Restaurant. He was part of a team at Gerard’s earning the restaurant
many accolades including best restaurant in Hawaii. Working under
the direction of the owner Gerard, a French-born native raised andtrained in France, using the freshest seafood available as well
as locally raised products on a daily basis, Starkey’s interest in
becoming a Chef only intensified.
In 1994, Starkey earned his first Executive Chef position at the
Crowne Plaza Hotel and returned to his home of Ohio where heworked for two years. Starkey took a two-year corporate Chef
position at Bergro Restaurant Systems in Columbus and then joined
the private club sector when he took the position of Executive Chef
and Co F&B Manager position at the prestigious Hyde Park Golf andCountry Club in Cincinnati. In 2019 Starkey became the Executive
Chef for Birchwood Farms Golf and Country Club in Harbor Springs
Michigan. Since 2004 Starkey has also owned his own private
catering company overseeing all events, from intimate parties of
two to elaborate weddings of 350 people. In 2021, Starkey took
the executive Chefs position at Wausau Country Club, then was
recruited in 2022 to Sentry World as their Executive Chef where heworks today. When not in the kitchen cooking, he enjoys time withhis wife and two children, coaching youth sports, and keeping fit
and active at his local gym.
September/October 2023

ROUX – In a cast iron skillet combine the butter and heat,then slowly add your flour and cook slowly until roux
becomes dark as chocolate, and the consistency is likecookie dough. Set to the side.
BASE
Brown your andouille sausage in a stock pot browning till it
begins to caramelize. Add all of the vegetables, and cook
until vegetables begin to soften. Add your chicken broth,then your parsley and garlic. Slowly add your roux, then thepulled chicken meat, and the shrimp and slowly simmer.
Add your Cajun spices and finish simmering for another 30
minutes at a slow simmer. Adjust with salt and pepper totaste.
Ladle onto your rice in an appropriate dish, and enjoy

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Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, Chef Starkey always knew hewanted to be a chef. His passion took him first to the Universityof Cincinnati to obtain his Associate degree in Hotel/Motel
management and then on to attend and graduate from the Culinary
Institute of America in Hyde Park New York, with an Associate’s
degree in Culinary Arts.

GUMBO
1 bunch of celery diced
1 green pepper diced
1 large sweet onion
1 bunch of green onions
1 bunch flat parsley
2-3 cloves of garlic
1-2 tablespoons of Paul Prudhomme Cajun seasoning
6-8 cups of chicken broth
12-16 oz of Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
Meat from a roasted chicken, dark and white
2 cups of Shrimp, or crawfish
Cooked white rice

A Customer Service Company
that Just Happens to Do Events
By: Meredith Commender, CSEP

at all passionate about shoes - a surprising statementfrom the CEO of a billion-dollar shoe company.

However, what he said next has
always stuck with me: “Zappos isa customer service company thatjust happens to sell shoes.”
Indeed, there was nothing remarkable about the shoesthat Zappos sold; they were the same shoes any otherfootwear company was selling. It was customer service
that set Zappos apart from other competitors and the truearea in which they excelled.
This quote really made me think about my own business.
I love producing and designing events and watching themcome to life, but I have never felt particularly passionate
about event production or design. I am, however,incredibly passionate about working with my clients andtaking great care of my vendor colleagues, and theseareas are the main focus of my career. I love to see clientsand vendors develop trust in me and have complete
confidence on the day of their event that I will exceed
expectations. I love being told by clients and vendors that I
was amazing to work with and have them refer me to otherpeople they know in need of an event planner. I haveconcluded that I am a customer service company that justhappens to plan events, and I have found that other event
industry companies who have this same philosophy havethe best and most sustainable businesses.
When focusing on your event business, how much time
do you spend on developing your customer service
strategies? What things are you doing and improving to
make processes easier for your clients to understandand manage? Are you implementing new and helpful
technology measures that make sense for your business

September/October 2023

and your clients, or are you doing things the way you havealways done them? How are you providing guidance andfeedback to your clients? These are questions you should
be asking yourself frequently with your business. Although
taking care of yourself as a business owner, being
financially astute, and managing your employees are
incredibly important things to focus on, ignoring customer
needs and changes and putting them in a position
where they feel unsupported and unheard leads themto look elsewhere for better service. On the other hand,establishing those client bonds through trust, thoroughcommunication, deadline adherence, and under-promisingand overdelivering leads to the five-star reviews andreferrals we all want and need.
Additionally, we must never forget that planners andvendor partners are customers of each other as welland should be treated as such. Are you a vendor who
is constantly slow to respond causing the planner who
referred you to have to reach out to you again andagain? Are you a planner who throws vendors underthe bus in order to appease your clients? We have toalways remember that we function as a team in thisindustry, and all of us have to support each other and do
our parts to make each event a success. So many of myreferrals come from vendors I work with, and that has
been the result of treating my vendors like customers
by understanding their needs, supporting their work,
maintaining good lines of communication, and respecting
their time. My relationships with my vendor partners are
as important, if not more important, than the ones with
my clients, as these are the people I will work with year
after year.
By focusing more of our efforts on customer service,
we will see our businesses grow, thrive, and evolve
over time as our customers' needs change as well.
This approach also allows us to look to examples inthe business world, such as Zappos, for inspiration andguidance rather than focusing so narrowly on event
industry mentorships. This bigger picture approach
to what we do leads us to grow bigger ourselves andachieve more than we ever envisioned possible.

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Back to table of contentsIn the late Tony Hseih's book about his career as
CEO of Zappos, he famously stated that he was notHost Your Next
Event in Brookfield

Fast Facts:• Convenient location off I-94 between Milwaukee and Madison, andjust a short drive from Green Bay, Wausau and the Fox Valley. Fromsmall gatherings to large galas, Brookfield is the perfect location foryour event.
• 11 branded hotels, 1,842 hotel rooms, and 150,000+ sq. ft. of meeting
space within a 2 mile radius.
• Best shopping, dining and entertainment in SE Wisconsin
Featuring the Brookfield Conference Center- Voted 2023’s Best
Conference Center by Smart Meetings Magazine• Total of 40,000 sq ft of flexible meeting space in the Connect
and Collaborate Ballrooms, Celebration Atrium and outdoor
Celebration Plaza• On-site catering & beverage service• Attached Hilton Garden Inn
Our meeting locations offer all the amenities necessary to make yourguests happy and your job stress-free. We can help with RFPs, site
tours and guest welcome opportunities- all free of charge. Book yourupcoming event in Brookfield and let us exceed your expectations.
Brookfieldvisitbrookfield.com
September/October 2023

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Back to table of contents• Complimentary surface parking

MPI-WISCONSIN GALA RECAP

A recap of MPI-WI’s 2022 – 2023 Awards Gala event
By: Maria Peot, CMP

a delicious meal which included a roasted pear andarugula salad, a perfectly-seared filet, crab cake, roasted
asparagus, and mashed potatoes. A variety of desserts
were served as well – people enjoyed trading tiramisu,
crème brulee, and cheesecake amongst themselves!

All other attendees werewelcome to a cocktail
reception before dinner,
where they could enjoy
the signature drink – theCapitol Champagne
Cocktail – while perusinga wide-variety of silent auction items. The bidding thisyear was fierce as usual, especially for that American Club
package! Attendees also enjoyed taking photos in front of
the step and repeat banner with friends and colleagues
they hadn’t seen in awhile.

September/October 2023

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REBECCA STAATSThe evening began with
the Past President’s
Reception, hosted by
the outgoing President,
Rebecca Staats. This
reception is a special time
for all past presidents
to gather, reminisce,and celebrate theiraccomplishments fromthe time they each led ourchapter.

Once everyone was seated for dinner, we received awarm welcome from our emcees, Julie Peterman, CMP
and Susan Grigsby. Following the welcome, we enjoyed

JULIE PETERMAN, CMP &SUSAN GRIGSBYAt the end of each MPI year, the Chapter takes
a night to celebrate the accomplishments of ourmembers, volunteers, Board of Directors, sponsors,
and administrators. The event is all about recognition,
networking, celebrating, and having fun! This year’sAwards Gala was no exception!

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MPI-WISCONSIN GALA RECAP

The formal program then beganwith a reflection on the past
year by outgoing President
Rebecca Staats. This was

JEN MELL, CMP

JASON SALUS

Lastly, Jen Mell, CMP, took
the stage to tell everyone about
our next chapter event, which
will be held in September at theBest Western.

CHRISTOPHER & HEATHER DYER

September/October 2023

Next up was a very special presentation of the Hall of
Fame Award by Kathy Reading and Sherry Wolff. These
ladies had so many wonderful things to say about thenewest inductee into the MPI-WI Hall of Fame, Tamara P.
Jesswein, CMP, bringing both laughter and tears to thosein the audience. Tamara took the stage to accept theaward and left us all with her wise words of “If volunteering
is beneath you,leadership isbeyond you.” Thisis a phrase thatshe fully embodies
herself, having
said “yes” to justabout everything
she was asked to
do for our chapter
over the many
years she has
been a part of ourchapter!
Our emcees
returned to thestage to present
the rest of theawards (see page22) and closeout the formal
program of thenight. Attendees
were reminded
to pick up theirauction items ifthey won, andwere invited to
the After Glow at
the Top of the Park, where Celebrations Entertainment
provided dance tunes and a 360 degree photo booth.
The drinks continued flowing, attendees busted out theirbest moves on the dance floor, and the party continued‘til midnight!

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TAMARA P JESSWEIN, CMP

Rebecca’s opportunity to share what she was most proudof from the past year, which included a significant increasein our membership numbers. After several “pandemic
years” with declining membership, this was something for
Rebecca to be especially proud of! During her remarks,
Rebecca also gave out the President’s Award, recognized
the Board of Directors who served under her, presented
a special thank you gift to our administrators of 20 years,
Christopher and Heather Dyer from MDS.

Rebecca officially passed the gavel to our incoming
President, Reggie Driscoll, CMP, who took the stage
to remark on what he’s looking forward to as he enters
into his presidency year. He also gave Rebecca a coupleof gifts as a thank you for her guidance and leadershipover the past year. At the end of his remarks, Reggie
invited the incoming Board of Directors to the stage forrecognition as well.

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After dessert, the emcees returned to the stage to kickthings off. First things first was a BIG thank you to our hostvenue, the Park Hotel, with remarks by General Manager
Jason Salus. Then, all chapter volunteers were recognizedon screen, with a special shout
out to the Gala Team. Following
that, the in-kind donation
sponsors were recognized aswell (see page 22).

Back to table of contents

MPI-WISCONSIN GALA RECAP

September/October 2023

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MPI-WISCONSIN GALA RECAP

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2022-2023
Gala Awards
In-Kind Donation
Sponsors

September/October 2023

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MPI-WISCONSIN GALA RECAP

2022 - 2023 AWARD WINNERS
PRESIDENT’S AWARD
Lindsey Hess, CMP

RISING STAR
Amanda Wilkins, CMP

PLANNER OF THE YEAR
Carrie Jensen, CMP

HALL OF FAME AWARD
Tamara P. Jesswein, CMP

SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR
Darcie Holte

INDUSTRY ADVOCATE
Reggie Driscoll, CMP

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TEAM OF THE YEAR
Spring Spectacular Team

September/October 2023

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Back to table of contents

When it comes to what you need for a convention, we’ve got
the numbers you’re looking for like 5,600 meetings a year,
500,000 square feet of meeting space and 8,000 guest rooms.
But more importantly, we have what you want. Shopping, golf,waterparks, restaurants, family fun and so much more – all in
19+ square miles. Because we’re in the business of having fun.
MeetInTheDells.com | sales@wisdells.com | (888) 339-3822
September/October 2023

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232023 MPI Wisconsin
Summer Social
The 2023 MPI Wisconsin Summer Social was a family affair on the farm. On July 20th, Christopher and Heather Dyer were
our hosts at their home and new office just east of Madison. Over 60 members and their families brought a dish to pass andenjoyed the beautiful evening, with musician Julius Bindrum creating the cool summer vibe. Embassy Suites Brookfield
member Heather Harmeyer and her family attended, including her husband Mason DeWitt, who works for MobCraft Beer.
Mason brought the MobCraft Beer tent and provided samples of their latest brews. Cottage Grove based Doundrins Distilling
was also on hand with flavored vodkas and liquors perfect for a summer cocktail. “It was great to see so many new faces
at the social” said VP of Membership Beth Schnabel, CMP. “It was so nice connecting with everyone and meeting family
members. Everyone had a great time, and it’s possible the kids had an even better time in the pool. My kids didn’t want toleave.” The social was held in the 100 year old barn, which was renovated into the offices of our chapter administrators, MDS
Association Management.

Items donated will go on the MPI-WI Bidding forGood website. We will use our auction website,bidder email system, and refer-a-friend featuresto promote our event and expand our outreachbeyond our community. We will also activate social
media buttons on our auction site so our supporters
can help spread the word. Our auction is poised forthis November, and we will encourage everyone totalk up the site as a way to purchase some unique
Christmas gifts... all donated by you! What fabulous
exposure for you!
If you would like to join the Bidding for Good Teamor you would like to donate an item, please email
admin@mpiwi.org.

September/October 2023

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In Search of Volunteers andDonations for Bidding for Good

Walkable downtown
Traditional and unique meeting venues
Over 900 sleeping rooms
One-of-a-kind family owned restaurants
Where you’ll be embraced as one of our own
Hand-crafted hometown experiences
Team building opportunities everyone will enjoy
Community wide partnerships that make planning simple
One hour from four international airports
And of course dog friendly trails and hotels
Check out what’s happening inFond du Lac!

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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

10 reasons to meet inFond du Lac, Wisconsin

Darcie Holte
Director of Sales
dholte@fdl.com
920-923-3010
MPI-WI Chapter
Supplier of the Year 2023
September/October 2023

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MPI WISCONSINNEW MEMBERS

ANNIVERSARIESCongratulations to those members celebrating amilestone anniversary in September/October!

Congratulations!

WELCOME NEW MEMBER!

20 YEAR
DANA ECKER

BRANDON FLITTERHOTEL NORTHLAND, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

10 YEARSHERRY WOLFFCARRIE MANTEY
NEI-TURNER MEDIA GROUP

5 YEARCHRISTY MARQUARDTFARRAH SLINGERTABITHA SCHROCK

Don’t miss your chance to get top notch education,
networking, and idea sharing with our tri-statecolleagues at MPI Great Lakes Education Summit!
Registration coming soon!

EVENT: MPI GREAT LAKES EDUCATION SUMMITDATE: NOVEMBER 12-14, 2023
LOCATION: SHERATON GRAND RAPIDS (MICHIGAN)
WHO: MPI CHAPTERS - MICHIGAN, WISCONSIN, INDIANA

Sponsorship opportunities please contact tamara.jesswein@hidglobal.com

September/October 2023

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SAVE THE DATE

Welcome back.

We invite you back to discover the exceptional facilities at the Red Circle Inn, perfectly suited for yourbusiness needs. Our appointed banquet and meeting rooms have been designed to accommodate andinspire gatherings ranging from 10 to 240 attendees. Whether you are organizing a team-building session,a business meeting, a department dinner, a holiday party, or any other corporate event, let Red Circle Innprovide a historic setting for your next occasion.

Complimentary Room Rental for MPI Members

Applicable for the initial reservation only. Please mention this ad when making your booking.

Contact Kim Ash to plan your meeting at Red Circle Inn

RED CIRCLE INN•

N 4 4 W 3 3 0 1 3 WAT E RTO W N P L A N K R D , N A S H OTA H , W I 5 3 0 5 8

September/October 2023

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•

WWW.REDCIRCLEINN.COM

Back to table of contents(262) 303-5321 • kim.ash@geronimohospitalitygroup.com

If you’re interested
in volunteering,reach out to us atadmin@mpiwi.org

Being an Events Supervisor for Generac Power Systems means Danniel
Kaczoroski and her team plan, organize, and execute over 60 events,
including the Generac Annual Conference, in addition to participatingin over 100 tradeshows each year. Even though her day job keeps herbusy, Danniel loves supporting MPI by helping acquire gala auction
items and selling raffle tickets at monthly meetings. Danniel went togreat lengths for this year’s unique gala centerpieces, calling in a favor
to her friend in New Jersey who owns a 3D printer and traveling to theEast Coast to pick them up!
“I absolutely adore volunteering for MPI! It’s such a joy to work alongsideothers who share my passion and occasional headaches (haha) for event planning. MPI holds a very
special place in my heart and my career. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting some truly wonderful people
who inspire me to think outside the box and strive for greatness in this industry.”

SAMANTHA GARCIA
Samantha Garcia, Complex Sales Director for Hotel Monona andSheraton Madison Hotel, is responsible for soliciting past and new
business for her properties. Entertaining and maintaining relationships
is her specialty as she works to exceed revenue goals for room nights,
F&B, and rental. Samantha says, “I love volunteering for MPI because
I get to provide support and services to the organization by offering mytime, skills, and expertise. In addition to accomplishing all of that, I get todevelop meaningful relationships with colleagues in my industry.”
As a member of the gala team, Samantha created the shimmery gold
signature cocktail to bring a bit of glamour to the evening and complement
the theme. Sweet, fruity, and floral notes swirling with gold luster, this year’s signature cocktail was aparty all on its own. If you sipped on the Capitol Champagne Cocktail at the Capitol Soirée, raise a glassand say “cheers” to Samantha!

MARIA PEOT, CMP
As the Senior Event Coordinator with Zywave, Maria Peot manages
and executes internal and client events, as well as supporting thought
leadership events. In addition, she manages the internal relationships
between the events team and the finance and legal departments. By
streamlining processes with these departments, she has freed up her
teammates to be able to focus more on executing nearly 100 events
each year!
As a long time MPI-WI member and former Board Member, Maria hasgenerously stepped up and donated her talent countless times over theyears. She has always enjoyed writing and editing, so her MPI-volunteer
roots began with the Agenda magazine. Most recently, she joined the gala team, where her writing skills
were put to use, writing/editing the script. Taking on this task is no small feat, but Maria has a great senseof humor, “I think the most fun part about writing the script was the last-minute nature of it...Yep, I said it!
I guess ‘works well under pressure’ should go on my resume!”
A committed volunteer, Maria said, “Since I no longer serve on the Board of Directors, I love volunteering
for the Chapter in new and different ways. I am looking forward to the coming year and supporting anotherfearless leader, Beth Schnabel, with her membership efforts!”

September/October 2023

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Volunteer Spotlight

DANNIEL KACZOROSKI

From the board room to the bier garten,
make a weekend of it in Middleton.

meetinmiddleton.com

Madison Marriott West-Middleton

September/October 2023

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Hilton Garden Inn
Madison West/Middleton

Kathy Reading

Tell us about the company you work for and/or your position: I’ve been with this company
for more than 25 years. We serve the meetings and events industry with print, signage,displays, promotional items, kitting, fulfillment, and custom registration solutions.
How long have you been in the meetings industry? 25-ish?
Tell us a few things about your role on our Chapter Board: I’m excited to serve and honor
our membership, especially through our annual awards recognition, which we just celebrated
at our Gala.
What drew you to serve on our Chapter Board? I’m returning to the board after a brief
hiatus. I’m recharged and ready!
What do you enjoy about your board service, and what are you learning? There is always
much to learn from people who are passionate about our industry and serving.
What are your hobbies and interests? Many and varied.
Tell us about your family: I’m super-happily married to Bob Harley, and super-happy to beaunt to many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and a couple of great-greats.
Favorite song/band/artist/movie/book: Many and varied
Person you admire and why: Many and varied
Tell us your words to live by or share a favorite quote: What if...

September/October 2023

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Board Member Profile:
Kathy Reading

Director: Awards, Scholarships,
and Recruitment
Employer: The Scan Group, Inc.

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 new piano bar andworld-class dining options, Kalahari has everything you need toensure 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| ©2022 Kalahari Management Co. LLC
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KalahariMeetings.com | Call 855-411-4605 to learn more | Follow Us:

September/October 2023

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Meet in Janesville
Rotary Botanical Gardens

•
•
•
•
•

Variety of meeting locations
Fraction of the cost of larger cities
Pre and post meeting activities
Easily accessible - right off I-39/90
Free JACVB assistance every step of the way

RCHS Carriage Barn
©Full Spectrum Photography

The Venue

Genisa Wine Bar

September/October 2023

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janesvillecvb.com · (800) 487-2757 ·   

1Danielle Campbell welcomed her beautiful baby boy
on July 27th. Congratulations, Danielle and family!

Compiled by Kortnee Carroll

WHERE
CITIES
MEET...

AND
PEOPLE
DO, TOO.

PLANNI NG

NOTE: if you have any news to share inthis column, please contact Kortnee Carroll,
Director - Publications & Community Outreach,kocarroll@kalahariresorts.com.

September/October 2023

TOGETHER.

Come see what makes Waukesha
Pewaukee the place where people
meet. With ample space and venues towelcome you, exciting activities and aconvenient location, you can count on
us to be your planning partner.

LET’S GET PLANNING!
visitwaukesha.org/meet-more

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2

Cheryl Oswald, CMM,
CMP, CEM stated a newrole as Corporate Events
Manager with CNH
Industrial.
Congratulations, Cheryl!

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
2023-2024 CHAPTER EVENTSOCTOBER 19, 2023
OCTOBER EDUCATION
Sentry World, Stevens PointNOVEMBER 12 - 14, 2023
Great Lakes Education Summit (GLES)
Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport Hotel, Michigan
JANUARY 25, 2024
JANUARY EDUCATIONThe Osthoff Resort, Elkhart LakeFEBRUARY 15, 2024
FEBRUARY EDUCATION
Bridgewood Resort & Hotel, Neenah

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MARCH 7, 2024
MARCH EDUCATION
Monona Terrace, Madison
APRIL 21, 2024
SPRING EDUCATION
Kalahari Resorts, WI Dells

September/October 2023

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