2017 MSAE Fall Conference
The 2017 MSAE Annual Conference advertised: Hattiesburg’s “Award-winning Red Carpet Service.” That was no under-statement. Hattiesburg’s renown “Red Carpet Service” for MSAE began well before Members crossed the threshold into the Lake Terrace Convention Center, Hattiesburg, MS. Marlo Dorsey, Executive Director for Hattiesburg Tourism Commission, tirelessly orchestrated the smallest of details with support from her team, and MSAE Executive Director, Amy Wilson. Over and above attention to details were apparent the moment anyone walked through the Convention Center doors for registration. Service, Music, floral arrangements, special draperies, and a balanced box lunch set the stage. The General Opening Session, “All That Jazz,” highlighted a performance by the William Carey University Show Choir and orchestra.” VisitHattiesburg provided a variety of music and entertainment throughout the three days, showcasing local musical talent, including, The University of Southern Mississippi School of Music, The Winters School of Music and Ministry Studies at William Carey University, and Tiger Rogers (Jazz). Talent did not stop with music. Rita B (Comedy), and Hattiesburg Celebrity Chef ‘s that demonstrated the preparation of savory food available for enjoyment. The abundance of good food, entertainment, educational sessions, and multiple small and special touches helped to propel October 2017 MSAE Fall Conference to one of the leading conference experiences for Members and Industry Partners. Some memorable perks included soothing continuous background music, Wild American iced shrimp for cocktails, cuisine prepared by celebrity-local chefs, a private zoo party with animal encounters, jazzy costumes, International food choices with beverage pairing, special coffee condiments that included whipped cream, raw sugar cubes, and barista raw sugar sticks, floral arrangements, and eclectic local shopping opportunities. The three day conference showcased Hattiesburg. Talent included musicians, cheerleaders, and or dancers from University of Southern Mississippi, or William Carey University, culinary talent from the Purple Parrot Seafood & Steaks, and Master Chef Finalist Katie Dixon. Continuing Education sessions were led by Bob Harris (Internationally known author), Max Fenn (Protective Security Advisor for the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security Office of Infrastructure Protection), Tom Wagner (Wagner Consulting Group), Barrie Schwartz (My House Social), Kevin Whorton (Whorton Marketing & Research Consulting), Mayor Toby Barker (Hattiesburg), Thomas Broadus (The Focus Group), and Mandi Stanley (Certified Speaking Professional). A Silent Auction returned to the MSAE Conference this year with a special benefit to granddaughter of Penny Ann Quave, MS Coast Coliseum & Convention center, and long time MSAE member. Outstanding donations raised over $3,700.00 to help Ashtyn Jackson with a needed liver & kidney transplant. Organizing a successful event requires multiple parties. Some not previously mentioned include, the MSAE Executive Board, University Florist, PCH Hotels & Resorts, IP Casino Resort & Spa, Tunica CVB, Golden Nugget / Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort, Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast, Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum, Hattiesburg Zoo, Best Western Premier Hotel, Visit Oxford, Wild American Shrimp, Lake Terrace, BBJ Linens, Marriott International, VisitHattiesburg, Visit Natchez, Hilton Garden Inn (Starkville), and Mobile CVB. Save the Date: October 7 – 10, 2018. MSAE 2018 Fall Conference: |
