MPIGNY 30/30
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Message from Our President

Dear MPI Greater New York Chapter Members,

As we step into April, we focus on the power of connection and collaboration within our industry. This month, we celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) and Business Events Industry Week—two significant occasions that highlight the profound impact of meetings and events on economies, businesses, and communities worldwide.

Celebrating Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID)
On April 3, 2025, professionals from around the globe will unite to advocate for the meetings and events industry. GMID serves as a powerful reminder of the role our industry plays in fostering economic growth, job creation, and meaningful relationships. We encourage you to participate in this important day by attending events, engaging in discussions, and sharing insights that showcase the value of what we do.

Business Events Industry Week
Business Events Industry Week is a time to bring together leaders, innovators, and changemakers who drive the future of meetings and events. This week provides opportunities to exchange ideas, develop best practices, and explore new strategies to elevate our industry. Let’s use this moment to inspire one another and reinforce the importance of in-person gatherings that spark innovation and collaboration.

Upcoming Events

Video Content Simplified for Event Professionals: Strategy, Creation, and Optimization

Date: April 3, 2025 - Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID)
Location: Planet Hollywood
Join us for this global day of advocacy as we celebrate the economic and social impact of our industry.

April Networking Mixer
Date: April 16th 
Time: 5pm -7pm
Location: SkyLoft - 50 Hudson Yards, 32nd Floor

Get Involved
Your participation and engagement are what make our chapter thrive. As we recognize these important industry milestones, we encourage you to join us, share your experiences, and contribute to the conversation.

Thank you for being a valued member of MPI Greater New York. Together, we continue to strengthen our community, champion the meetings and events industry, and drive positive change.

Looking forward to seeing you at our upcoming events!

Happy Spring! 

With Gratitude,
John Sklencar
President, MPIGNY
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In Memoriam
  
ith heavy hearts, we share the news of the passing of Dean Altvater, Vice President of Global Sales, PRA Business Events. Dean was a respected leader and a cherished friend too many within the MPIGNY community.

Dean served as our chapter President in 1997, and his dedication to MPIGNY continued long after his term. He consistently contributed his wisdom, grace, and kindness, leaving an indelible mark on our organization. In 2001, Dean was deservedly honored with the Hall of Fame Award, a testament to his significant contributions.

His influence and impact on our industry were exemplary, setting a strong foundation for all who had the privilege of working with him. Dean was a mentor to countless young professionals, and his style, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail were truly admirable. He possessed a unique ability to make each person feel valued and special.

We extend our deepest condolences to his lifelong partner, Guillermo Martine, and to his family and friends during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Dean's memory by making a donation to one of the charities he passionately supported:
 
 
Additionally, for those who wish to plant trees in his memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
 
The MPIGNY Chapter will be establishing a scholarship fund in Dean’s name to honor his enduring legacy. We will share further details about this initiative in the coming months.
 
Let us all continue to honor Dean’s legacy by living his mantra, “Always look up.” May we all strive to maintain a positive outlook, even in the face of challenges, as he so consistently did.

With sincere sympathy,
MPIGNY
MEET OUR VOLUNTEERS: THE DIRECTORS' DEN
  
I’ve been a member of MPI for 14 years and I'm a freelance meeting planner and TD. The majority of my work is with MedEd/Pharma.

If I could attend or produce any event in the world, I would love to see the behind the scenes of the Olympics. I'm fascinated with the coordination that goes into producing that scale of an event—all the venues, F&B, housing, AV, countries' delegates, athletes, media, support staff, families, and spectators. And the potential risks… Even with years and years of planning, it amazes me how seamless it appears on TV.

If I could have a superpower to make my job easier, it would be the ability to read minds. LOL It would help immensely when the client is not saying what they really mean.

I hope the chapter continues to grow and continues offering great opportunities for learning, connection, and supporting the Greater New York Community at large.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Hilton Hotels and Resorts/ Tulkal Hospitality Services
MEET OUR VOLUNTEERS: MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
  
Sydney is a new member of MPI and she joined to network with professional peers and gain insight into event trends.

If she could have any super power to assist her in her job, Sydney would like to have super strength! Sydney is looking forward to connecting with members who are trendsetters and potential clients.

Sydney’s favorite quote is "Yes, and."




 

 

 
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Events
 
Global Meetings Industry Day is a time for meeting and event professionals to come together and celebrate the incredible impact of what we do. Face-to-face meetings and events not only drive organizations’ bottom lines, they drive cultures, communities, and humanity forward. GMID is the perfect shared opportunity to connect, learn, and refuel for the year ahead.

GMID April 3rd: North America
8:00 AM - 4:00 PM CDT
 
Pre-Con
MPIGNY invites you to celebrate Global Meetings Industry Day at our next educational event at Planet Hollywood. Transform your event video content in one session with "Video Content Simplified for Event Professionals: Strategy, Creation, and Optimization." Learn Jera Bean's proven "3-Step Video Success Framework," then master venue-specific filming with David Ma's "15-Min Event Film School" that teaches planners to shoot like directors.

Walk away with practical techniques to immediately elevate your event documentation and marketing videos—no experience or fancy equipment needed. Join us to discover video content skills that showcase event value, drive attendee engagement, and deliver measurable ROI for your clients.

GMID
Date: April 3, 2025 
Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Planet Hollywood NYC

PROGRAM
5:00 - 6:00 PM - Networking and reception (lite bites)
6:00 - 7:00 PM - Programming
7:00 - 8:00 PM - Networking (lite dessert)
 
Pricing for GMID - All Associations Below:
ILEA, MPI, PCMA, SITE, IAEE
Member Planner: $85
Member Supplier: $115
Nonmember Planner: $100
Nonmember Supplier: $150
 

The Venue Crawl Networking Mixer – The Grand Finale at SkyLoft!

Join us at the last stop on One Way Event Productions’ The Venue Crawl at SkyLoft, Hudson Yards' stunning new event space! Perched on the 32nd floor at 50 Hudson Yards, SkyLoft offers an exclusive blend of sophisticated style and versatility, featuring dynamic layouts and breathtaking city views—the perfect setting for events, private meetings, cocktail parties, intimate dinners, and more.

At this exclusive networking mixer, you'll get to:
✨ Explore this gorgeous new venue
🍸 Sip on a complimentary signature cocktail or mocktail
🥂 Savor delicious light bites
🎶 Enjoy live DJ vibes
🎤 Engage in a thought-provoking panel discussion with The Venue Crawl sponsors

No cost to attend, but registration is required! Don't miss this chance to connect with top event industry professionals in an unforgettable setting.

REGISTER NOW!

Join Us for a Fulfilling Volunteer Activity with God’s Love We Deliver!
Looking for an opportunity to make a real difference while connecting with colleagues? Join us for an inspiring Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity at God’s Love We Deliver, where we’ll be lending a hand in their Kitchen Projects.

Register Here
Together, we’ll help prepare and package meals that bring comfort and nourishment to people in the tri-state area who are too sick to shop or cook for themselves. Tasks may include:
 
* Packaging meals with care
* Chopping onions or peeling potatoes
* Making meatballs or ladling soup
* Scooping baked goods or preparing fresh herbs
 
Every contribution, no matter how small, adds up to a life-changing impact for those in need. God’s Love We Deliver is the region’s leading provider of nutritious, individually tailored meals, and we’re excited to support their mission.

Location: God's Love We Deliver
Address: 166 Avenue of the Americas, NYC

Monday, May 12, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

First-time volunteers must create an individual account through the following link and be registered for the shift to ensure entry to the building.
 
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Let’s Go to Saratoga! More Memorable Experiences
Book your next meeting or event in Saratoga! Centrally located at the foothills of the Adirondacks; a convenient 3-hour drive from Boston, New York, and Montreal. Saratoga offers a variety of versatile meeting venues; diverse dining options; unique experiences for groups; Plus, a range of accommodations to choose from. Let the Discover Saratoga team help customize your next event!
Book Now
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Chapter Opportunities
  
Want to get more involved? Take our survey and see which MPIGNY Committee is your best "fit"! 
  
Interested in writing for the Buzz and having your work seen by hundreds of industry pros?
Take the Find Your Fit Survey
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Post-Con
On March 12th, we had another volunteer opportunity at God’s Love We Deliver, where we helped package meals for individuals in our community who are unable to shop for or prepare meals due to illness. It was a truly meaningful experience to be part of an organization that provides nourishment and care to those who need it most.

Many thanks to David Fletcher who was team lead on this day, and to Colleen Jasinski and Jacqueline Seltzer for giving their time!

We hope you’ll join us for our next God’s Love We Deliver activity! It’s a great way to give back, network with colleagues, and meet new people. Stay tuned for details on upcoming volunteer opportunities—we’d love to have you with us!
 
Coast Linen Services
Discover Newport
Connect
  
I'm sure you've heard the old saying you only get out what you put into it.This addage still rings true today in everything we do—including our MPI Membership.

Don't throw your membership dollars away by paying dues and then... doing nothing. Make your membership work for you by getting involved, attending events, and making new connections. The best that could happen: you land a huge partnership and increase your revenue stream. The worst that could happen: you make a new life-long friend and colleage.

Need help making these connections? We've got you covered!

Click on the link below, spend less than five minutes answering a few questions, and we will feature you in the following ways:

1. Member Spotlight: Each month we feature a member in the Buzz. Use this as a platform to reach out to potential business partners, get your name out there in the community and make new connections.

2. Hot Tip Tuesday: Share your knowledge and be featured in our new social media campaign! 

3. Feature Story: Give us the green light to contact you for an upcoming article in the Buzz. We are looking for Thought Leaders in all areas of the industry.

What was the last MPIGNY event that you attended? Has it been a while? What was that—you have not been to ANY events yet? Wow, you must have some serious FOMO going on. Luckily for you, that's an easy problem to fix!

Keep an eye out here, in the Buzz, and also frequent our website to find out about upcoming events. Each year, MPIGNY hosts numerous activities from Networking Meet Ups and Educational Events to Fundraisers and Volunteer Sessions. And many are even free to attend—all you have to do is sign up and show up.

Not the greatest networking maven? Heading out alone & not sure what to expect? Stop by the Membership Table or find any member of the MPIGNY Board and they will be happy to welcome you in, answer any questions you may have, and make some meaningful introductions. 

Prefer to sit back and watch your first go round? No problem! Want a unique way to get yourself out there? We have something special just for you:

After each event, we will be looking for a few friendly faces to participate in our new social media campaign Did You Catch That?!

All you'll need to do is spend 2-3 minutes sharing your key takeaways from that event. We will then feature these brief  Aha Moments online.

Who knows, you could be the next social media rock star!

                
Connect
  
The MPI Greater New York Chapter is pleased to announce the formation of the MPI Northeast Affiliate Membership program. This program is available to Preferred or Premier Members of MPI in good standing. Click the link below to learn more!
Want to strengthen a friendship AND an industry? Refer a friend to MPI.

We are pleased to offer you an opportunity to help a colleague, friend, or young professional
experience the benefits of MPI membership. By giving this voucher to a future MPI member, you
will allow them to waive the $50 application fee – and you'll receive $25 off your next membership renewal.
 
Grow
  
You're not alone if you're overwhelmed planning meetings in this unpredictable environment. The events industry faces unprecedented changes from economic shifts to evolving attendee expectations. This short article serves as a sanctuary and a toolkit for meeting professionals.

Meeting industry sentiment has declined significantly, reflecting widespread anxiety among event professionals. Planners are navigating multiple challenges from securing venues and managing budgets to addressing broader industry stability and sustainability concerns. These pressures fundamentally impact their ability to deliver successful events.

You're not alone in this journey. The pressures of perfect execution can be overwhelming, but your dedication matters. Start with one mindful moment between meetings. Build resilience through small, consistent actions.

Micro-Actions for Meeting Success 
In the fast-paced meetings industry, self-care goes beyond occasional breaks. As event professionals, we must integrate small, purposeful actions into our daily routines:

⇒Setting firm boundaries with clients
⇒Taking deep breaths before stakeholder meetings
⇒Staying hydrated during event setup
⇒Connecting with industry peers during challenging times
⇒Managing digital notifications during conferences

Meeting industry professionals, remember: you're not alone in this journey. The pressures of perfect execution can be overwhelming, but your dedication matters. Start with one mindful moment between meetings. Build resilience through small, consistent actions.

Mike Veny
2025 MPIGNY Marketing & Communications Committee
Grow
  
Free, live webinars are available to all members on the MPI Academy web page. New webinars are being added on a regular basis. You can also learn about & register for several certification courses offered by MPI.
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Calendar and Events
12
May 2025
 

Location: God's Love We Deliver
Address: 166 Avenue of the Americas, NYC

Monday, May 12, 2025

Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Thursday, June 5, 2025

Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
24
Jul 2025
 

July 24 7:30 AM - 6:30 PM
New York Country Club
Rockland County
Transportation from NYC Provided
Free for Planners!
Stay Tuned for More Details!
Naylor Association Solutions
Naylor Association Solutions