ISES - Greater Pittsburgh Chapter

International Special Events Society
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ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter Newsletter                                           April 2010

ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter
In This Issue
ISES NEWS
Esprit Awards
Upcoming Meetings
ISES Benefits
Pittsburgh Helps Haiti 
hopitail 
 Thanks to all who attended our March meeting at Heinz Field.
 
 
 $555 was donated by our chapter to the Albert Schweitzer Friends of Hopital Albert Schweitzer Haiti
 
Guests learned to boost sales from  
      Scot Teachout of Peak Performance
 
Special Thanks to:
 
ISES ESPRIT AWARDS
esprit
An ISES Esprit Award is more than your fifteen minutes of fame -- it's the opportunity to showcase you and your team's creativity, uniqueness, and the consistent quality you have to offer.  Being an ISES Esprit Award recipient will provide the distinct competitive advantage to sing your praises to customers, potential clients, vendors and colleagues, reminding them of your accomplishments and industry expertise.
 
Whether you set the stage, cook the food, design the invitation or create an experience...you have the ability to enter your best work into the ISES Esprit Awards. 
 
FIND OUT MORE
Mark Your Calendar
dates 
Upcoming
 ISES Meetings
 
 Wednesday 
  April 21st 
 The Fairmont Pittsburgh
 
Wednesday 
May 19th 
Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
 
Wednesday
June 16th
Omni Hotel
 
Wednesday
July 14th  
University Club
 
NO MEETING IN AUGUST
 
Wednesday September 15th Gateway Clipper Fleet
 
Wednesday
October 20th  PNCPark
 
Wednesday, November 17th 
To Be Announced
 
Wednesday
December 15th  Holiday Party

 

Visit our website for information, industry links, a calendar of upcoming events, member search and great resources.

Letter from the President

cindy

It is almost impossible to believe that a year has passed since a group of people gathered together with the goal of bringing ISES to Pittsburgh.  ISES was received with open arms as it attracted special events professionals from Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas.  In April of 2009 nearly 60 people gathered to learn more about this organization and by October ISES Pittsburgh installed its first Board of Directors.  The membership climbed as it broke records as the fastest growing chapter in ISES history.
 
When we initially gathered to learn more about this organization, each of us came with certain expectations. Some came to learn about ISES. Many came looking to create new opportunities by networking. Others came in hopes of meeting professionals in their field. Most came seeking information that would enhance the industry.....but, everyone came with expectations. 
 
As we are about to embark on our second year, it is essential to review the accomplishments of the last twelve months, define next year's goals, and to ask..."Did we meet the expectations of our members?"
 
The accomplishments are quite amazing as creating an ISES chapter parallels building a business. We met the rules, regulations, guidelines and timelines set forth by ISES. We were laying the foundation as we defined the chapter, worked on a business plan, and built a prospective member base. A board of directors was appointed, sponsors were found, members were recruited, information delivery systems were built, banking relationships were developed, and programs were produced. Through the efforts of many, we built a chapter, we received national recognition from our peers, we were educated, entertained, wined and dined at the city's finest venues, and relationships were built.
 
But, this is just the beginning. Our goals are ambitious. As we listen to the requests of our members, goals are being developed that will increase member benefits. The results will brand ISES Pittsburgh's members to reflect the highest professional standards in the industry. Stronger member relationships will develop by limiting access to the events for non-members.  Members will be the focus as we build a sophisticated website offering valuable industry information.  We will utilize the talents of the members to establish an ongoing philanthropic project. The continuation of stimulating programs will be designed to educate and entertain. And, opportunities will be available for the members to participate through volunteering.
 
We look forward to the upcoming year as we continue to develop the Pittsburgh Chapter of ISES. But in closing it is important to know.....Did we meet YOUR expectations?  Your feedback is essential; therefore, please send me your thoughts, comments, suggestions and ideas.  
 
I look forward to seeing everyone on April 21st at the Fairmont Hotel and have a wonderful spring!
 
Cindy Scott
president@isespittsburgh.com

Next Meeting April 21st - Fairmont Hotel

fairmontLocated at the heart of Pittsburgh's business, cultural and retail hub, Fairmont Pittsburgh hotel offers superb and distinctive guest services and accommodations in a luxury setting. With breathtaking views of PNC Park, the restored downtown and the Pittsburgh skyline, guests have the feeling of truly being in the center of it all. 
 
 
Join us for Speed Networking and a chance to see expierence Pittsburgh newest hotel with ISES.
 
Join Barbara Schwarck from Clear Intentions and DJ Kelli Burns and as they lead you through a night of Speed Networking.
Meet other members and get an up close look at all the new Fairmont has to offer.  
 
 
 
 
 

Special Thanks to:

    Barbara Schwarck   The Fairmont Hotel   

       Allison McGeary Florist      Mosaic 

Annie O'Neill Photography          Kelli Burns DJ

 
 
 

                    ISES NEWS

After the snowy days of winter weather we all faced, it's nice to see spring has arrived. With the warmer weather comes changes and we have a few to tell you about.

Liesa Anderson has resigned as Director of Membership retention due to time commitments. Liesa has been a wonderful promoter of our chapter and has volunteered to assist on special projects. We thank her for all her hard work on behalf of the membership.
 
Kristin Nolte, who has served as chapter finance director, has been appointed as our new Director of Membership Retention.
 
Bill Jones, who was a key member of our formation and nomination committees has accepted the position of  Director of Finance and was sworn in at our last board meeting.
 
Please welcome Bill and Kristin to their new positions.

               Get Involved with ISES

volWe are currently seeking volunteers to assist in areas of chapter development. Positions take very little time and connect you with other event professionals. Please consider contributing your time and talents to one or more of the following volunteer opportunities:

Finance: solicit and organize volunteers for the registration table
 
Communications: 
Newsletter: Assist in the development and maintenance of the newsletter. Solicit and organize articles and information.
Email Blast
Web: Assist in the development and maintenance of the web. Solicit and organize information
 
Education and Programming:
Guest Identification: name tags, organize the name tags for the meetings for the registered guest
           
Membership:
Student Recruitment: reach out to the universities and schools to provide opportunities for student memberships
Membership Information: gather, compile, and maintain information relating to the member profiles, websites, email address, etc.
Membership Directory: Create and maintain database on the current membership 
Coupon Book: developing and creating a coupon book for the members...by the members
 
Branding: Work on a campaign to provide recognition to the public regarding the professionalism and value of an ISES member            

Philanthropic Development: working with the Board of Directors, creating, recruiting, and implementing an on-going project.
 

To Volunteer contact president@isespittsburgh.com
ISES Doesn't Cost - It Pays
 
Jan Mtg
3It's hard to believe, but our chapter membership drive is right around the corner. It's a great opportunity to encourage others in the event industry to join our chapter and reminded them of the great benefits that come with being a member of ISES:
 
  • PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES
  • DISCOUNTED SERVICES
  • CERTIFICATION
  • COMMUNICATIONS & ADVOCACY
  • EDUCATION/CONFERENCES
  • AN OPPORTUNITY TO NETWORK WITH  AREA PROFESSIONAL 

Can We Have Your Autograph?

signWhen you attend any of our chapter events please remember to sign the registration sheet at the entrance. Every meeting you attend counts as credit toward the CSEP certification.
 
Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
The CSEP designation is awarded by ISES and its Certification Committee.  It is regarded as the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry.  For more information about the CSEP, please visit www.ises.com.  
 
If interested in earning your CSEP, please contact Susan Tate Hiser, director of administration for the ISES Pittsburgh chapter at sjt1@andrew.cmu.edu
 
Based upon interest, focus groups may be established for those studying for the designation.
ev
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Make your reservations now to attend August 5-7 in Baltimore Maryland. More than 550 attendees from across North America attended last year. Don't miss your chance to expand your experience.
Click here for reservations and information

 

 

ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter Newsletter                                           January 2010

ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter
In This Issue
Pittsburgh Passes 100
Breakthrough Concepts
ISES Gives Back
Surprising Things
 Breakthrough Concepts Changing the World of  Meetings and Events for 2010
 
Make plans to join us for our February 23rd meeting at The Andy Warhol Museum with guest speaker
 

Richard Aaron, CMP, CSEP

President, BiZBash Media

Richard is acknowledged as one of the foremost experts in pioneering the modern event industry today and called the "King of Edutainment" for his high energy presentations.
 
Currently president of BiZBash Media, Richard manages over 30 tradeshows, conferences and award shows.
 
Prior to that Richard was President of Mallory Factor, Inc where he produced over 3,000 meetings and events for Fortune 100 companies across America. 
 
Richard was the founding president of the New York Chapter of ISES and the International Special Event Society as well as an ISES founding member.  He established the first charitable foundation named The SEARCH Foundation for the Event Industry and has served on the boards of The MPI Education and ISES Foundation.
 
 Do you seek fresh direction each year to stimulate new excitement for your events or meetings? Then plan to attend this not to be missed meeting to hear the latest trends that will influence meeting and event design for 2010!
  
Richard will spice up this session with the latest BiZBash discoveries in design, lighting, and themes to help you create the most memorable event experiences.
   
 
Special Thanks to:
Big Catering
Lendable Linens
 Hepatica
 The Andy Warhol Museum
 Details coming soon
bod 
ISES Pittsburgh  Board of Directors
 
PRESIDENT
 Cindy Scott 
PRESIDENT ELECT 
 Kim Racan  
VP MEMBERSHIP 
 Lisa Mason
VP COMMUNICATION
Shaun Pierce
VP EDUCATION AND PROGRAMS
Sheila Weiner  
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
 Kristin Nolte
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
 Susan Tate Hiser
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING
 Lori Upperman
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION 
 Ed Amori
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION
 Susie Perelman
DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP RETENTION
Leisa Anderson
DIRECTOR OF MEMBERSHIP DEVLEOPMENT
Kelli Burns

Pittsburgh Chapter breaks 100 member mark!

As of this publication, the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of ISES stands at 104 members. There are very few chapters that boast such strong membership. We are by far the fastest growing chapter in the history of ISES and it's all because of you!
 
Our December membership drive was extended due to the amazing response as we welcomed many new members. To those of you just joining, we would like to welcome you. We look forward to continued growth for our chapter and all our members in 2010!
ISES Holiday Party Gives to Children's Hospital 
Jan Mtg

In December, members  of our chapter gathered for a holiday event with a purpose. One of the goals of our new chapter is to give back to our community through our monthly meetings.
 
Attendees were asked to come to this free event with books and children's games. The response was incredible.
 
The  gifts donated went to Children's Hospital and will put smiles on the faces of many children thanks to the generosity of our members.

Thanks to all who made this event possible

 

All Occasions Party Rental

La Crème Artful Catering

Big Day Entertainment
Behind The Scenes
Wedding & Event Planning
 
designspace
 
Joe Appel Photography

What's a CSEP????

csep

Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)
The CSEP designation is awarded by ISES and its Certification Committee.  It is regarded as the hallmark of professional achievement in the special events industry.  For more information about the CSEP, please visit www.ises.com.  
 
If interested in earning your CSEP, please contact Susan Tate Hiser, director of administration for the ISES Pittsburgh chapter at sjt1@andrew.cmu.edu
 
Based upon interest, focus groups may be established for those studying for the designation.
Surprise! 
 
We asked our board members to share something about them that others would be surprised to learn:
 
 "Most people are surprised to know that I grew up on a farm and was in 4H showing market lambs until I was 18 years old" Lori Upperman - Director of Education
 
 
 
"I've been an avid ballet dancer for 30 years and I lived in France for a year as part of a study abroad program in college" Susan Tate Hiser - Director of Administration
 
 
Ed"As a young teenager, I made a selection of comedy/horror movies with a few friends of mine"
Ed Amori - Director of Education
 
 
 
landerson "I think that people would be surprised to know that I almost drowned at 17 and have since had a huge fear of deep water, with that, I would like to conquer that fear someday and learn how to scuba dive"
 Leisa Anderson -
Director of Membership Retention
  
sheila
 
"
People may be surprised to know that many years ago I was a Lamaze Instructor"
 Shiela Weiner -
VP Education and Programs         
 
 
 
"I think that most people would be surprised to know that I am a blackbelt in Karate"
Lisa Mason - VP of Membership 
 
 
Shaun"I was a radio and TV producer and I'm a eucharistic minister in the Catholic Church"
Shaun Pierce - VP of Communication
 
   
Susie"Once upon a time I was a major scuba diver. I am a Dive Master who has logged over 100 dives around the world including night dives, simulated decompression dives and wreck dives"
Susie Perelman - Dir. Of Communication
 

Kristen

 "On a Thespian trip to New York City, I stood on the broadway stage of my favorite musical, Chicago, before the show as Bebe Neuwirth warmed up beside me!" Kristin Nolte - Dir. of Finance
 
 ____________________________________________
 

"As a teenager I worked in my parent's antique business and I have been an avid collector since the age of 18.  Cindy Scott - President

 _____________________________________________________
 
"I traveled the country teaching aerobics to instructors at clubs...and was one of the innovators of STEP AEROBICS in the 80's,
then became partners with a Physician and we taught wellness seminars before wellness became popular!"
Kim Racan - President Elect
 
 

ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter Newsletter                                           December '09

ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter
In This Issue
A Message From Our President
December Membership Drive
Maximize Your Membership: Call for Volunteers
December Meeting

Please join us on THURSDAY, Dec. 17th as we celebrate the holidays together with friendship and good cheer. 

This event will be taking place at the
All Occasions Showroom
located in the Cigar Factory
on THURSDAY December 17th
from 6:00-8:00PM
 

Thanks to our Sponsors for the December Meeting:
 
All Occasions Party Rental

La Crème Artful Catering

Big Day Entertainment
Behind The Scenes
Wedding & Event Planning

designspace

bod 

ISES Pittsburgh Inducts First Board of Directors
 
PRESIDENT Cindy Scott 
PRESIDENT ELECT 
 Kim Racan  
VP MEMBERSHIP 
 Lisa Mason
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
 Kristin Nolte
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
 Susan Tate Hiser
VP EDUCATION AND PROGRAMS
Sheila Weiner  
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING
 Lori Upperman
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION 
 Ed Amori
VP COMMUNICATION
Shaun Pierce
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATION
 Susie Perelman

Great Ideas
MC
On November 18, 2009 Michael Cerbelli traveled to Pittsburgh to teach his "Hot Event & Entertainment Ideas" at J. Verno Studios.
Welcome to our first chapter newsletter!

We have come a long way in a very short time. Right now, the Greater Pittsburgh Chapter of ISES boasts 76 members and is the fastest growing chapter in the history of ISES. As we continue to develop, you will find exciting tools and opportunites to network and grow. From all of us, we would like to wish you a wonderful holiday season and the best in 2010.
A Message From Our President 
It is hard to believe that we are in the midst of the holiday season. With the arrival of Thanksgiving, my personal favorite, days begin to fill with family, friends and a demanding schedule.  It is at this time of the year I look back and reflect on the year that is passing and plan for the year that is getting ready to arrive.  Like most, I found 2009 to be a challenging year.  I watched as it changed the complexion of our industry.  Most of the changes were out of our control as they affected our businesses and our lives. But in the midst of all of this, I watched as something else emerged. I watched as members of our industry learned how to adapt.  We changed the way that we did things.  We altered our services and products to meet the needs of the environment. We re-evaluated the way that we conduct business, we trimmed the excess and honed our skills.  We found ways to provide wonderful events and pledged continued excellence to our clients. We began to look for creative solutions. But more than anything else, we began to work together more than ever before. We had more conversations, offered more services, referred more of our event partners....we adapted together.
 
Now as we look to 2010, we are going forward with the confidence of success. We survived the worst and became the better. We learned many lessons, we strengthened our foundations and built bridges.  As we look back, we may miss some of the things that were lost, but it is my holiday wish for you that we look forward with excitement to all of the new opportunities that we have created.
 
"What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals."
Zig Ziglar
 
Happy Holidays!
Cindy
Memebr in December and Save!
logo
 
Position yourself for success Join ISES in December...and SAVE!

In order to successfully compete in today's challenging market, special events professionals need to be educated and connected. ISES provides an environment that will afford you opportunities for professional development while enhancing your network.
 
Join ISES in December 2009
ONLINE for only $199!
 
Get 7 months of membership for the 1/2 year rate AND avoid the $50 application fee!**
This is an incredible savings!
CLICK HERE for information on member benefits and discounted business services you will enjoy as an ISES member.
 
Feel free to contact Lisa Mason of the ISES Greater Pittsburgh Chapter at Lisa@bts-events.com 412-566-2900 ...or ISES Headquarters at 1-800-688-ISES (4737) or info@ises.com. The question is not, 'can you afford to join ISES,'the question is 'can you afford not to join ISES?'
  **All ISES Memberships are up for renewal on June 30, 2010
The Big Event in the Big Easy
Stay on top of your game in 2010 and breeze through these tough economic times. Join the family of event professionals at the world's largest tradeshow and conference for the event industry. Over 8,000 of your peers attend the world-recognized event education program, visit with 300+ vendors on the tradeshow floor and attend the fabulous showcasing events to pick up the very latest trends and ideas to use in your own eventsFind out more.