2007 Regional Conference: Key to Success is Team Work

For so many, the thought of attending a Leadership Conference or a Regional Conference is the “RAH, RAH, RAH” of the National Association of Catering Executives. While we can certainly appreciate the hype of conference, it’s the nuts and bolts in the programming that makes the (ROI) Return On Investment worth the expense and time commitment to attend. 

Looking beyond the picturesque Biltmore Estates and the phenomenal cuisine, you have to realize the time and effort needed to entertain and educate three different regions of NACE leaders. Probably the main thing that stands out from the Regional Conference this past March was the importance of teamwork to produce success. As an event Designer, I appreciate the magnitude of work that went in to this weekend. So little time… so much to say and share.

Eight Board members from the Greater Detroit Chapter went in search of enlightenment and answers to a variety of questions. The underlying theme, which may have not been directly on the agenda, was “teamwork.” It took three (RVPs) Regional Vice Presidents countless hours to produce this weekend. In addition, they enlisted two members to guide us through some of the brainstorming for completing a NACE National nomination. (Something we should all do and are talented enough to be honored for) The added guidance and presence from National helped de-mystify some of the questions we all had pondering in our minds. What makes these ten plus volunteers and employees want to dedicate their energies? Again, it boils down to Teamwork for Success.

My main thought after attending the Regional Conference is this: I am extremely proud to be associated and connected with the Greater Detroit Chapter. As a Board, I hope we are serving your needs as a NACE member. If we are missing the boat in education, networking, your perceived ROI, or simply belonging, I hope you will let us know. As an organization (team), together we build a strong foundation. That foundation is there for you, your clients, and your company. If not a strong foundation, what can we do to assist you to make it solid?

~Joseph Martinez

Regional Retreat

As I think about what I took away from the regional retreat so many things come to mind but there were two points that keep coming back to me. They are ideas for upcoming NACE Programs and trends in our industry.

This was the second retreat that I have attended as a board member and I think it is the most valuable conference that a board member can attend. This conference helps to strengthen and give each chapter’s board some direction, guidance, and ideas to keep chapter meetings at the top standards that we set for our organization.

 There were several ideas on chapter meetings that were presented and a few that stood out were as follows.

-         NACE Trade Show- This was the largest fundraiser of the year for one chapter. Booth Spaces were sold to members at a discount. Non-members/Potential Members could get a booth as well for a higher price and they brought in top speakers in the industry, sold a fabulous lunch as part of the deal and marketed it to the public. How about that for a great idea!

-         One of our chapters did a coffee tasting that revolved around food and desserts. Starbucks led this tasting and it was one of the highest attended programs that they have put on. Fun and education all rolled into one.

-         A larger chapter did an iron chef event that was a surprise for its attendees. After their cocktail hour wait staff passed out colored aprons to guests and ushered them into “kitchen stadium” Each team worked with a chef and actually created the dinner for the evening. The plates were judged and drinks were served. This event did last a long time but it is something their members are still talking about.

The other major point that stood out to me is the trends occurring in our industry. This discussion not only helps me in my role with NACE but also in my job. Below are some of the things that are going on around the country.

-         Branding the event from start to finish. The food, décor, staff dress and attitude can all reflect the theme. The example given was for a car company who had chosen the word “Joy” as their theme. Wait staff wore t-shirts with the word emblazoned on the front. Foods were selected to reflect the theme. All things the client felt should bring joy.

-         Eco-friendly and Green Themes are majorly hot now. Sustainable seafood and Organic foods are what the client wants. I just learned that all of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurants are using only organic ingredients now. This is due to society’s demand and his beliefs. This year at the Oscars Wolfgang did all organic foods to reflect the theme of the Green room which was made of all sustainable woods and fabrics. The woods for serving platters, tables, chairs, and flooring are also becoming environmentally friendly.

-         One other thing that was mentioned was the display of foods and in particular food stations. One member shared that she attended an event where the food station was mobile. Carried by two well muscled young men and the station itself featured mussels. Also all tray passed hors d'oeuvres were served by servers wearing a t-shirt with the item they were passing on the front.

 The retreat was whirl wind but as you can see well worth it. 

~Linda Savage

SAY CHEESE......................

3 Reasons Why Zingerman's Loves Their Cheese:

1.) Tantalizing Texture-Hand Ladled Cheese is Flaky and Flavorful
2.) Fabulous Flavor-Gentle Pasteurization Protects the Delicate Flavor or Milk
3.) Michigan Milk-Fresh Milk Makes Better Cheese

Jamie from Zingerman's was introduced for this fun-filled cheese tasting. Jamie had us try four different kinds of cheese. They were:

1.) The Detroit St. Brick-  is a dense, lemony goat brick covered with a snow-white mold rind and liberally studded with freshly cracked green peppercorns. As it ages, the pepper becomes more assertive and the cheese develops more goat flavor.

2.) The Zingerman's Cream Cheese- is made using old techniques, no gums and long setting times to bring out the full flavor of the milk. It has a soft, fluffy texture and rich creamy citrus taste.

3.) The Little Dragon- is a fairly fresh goat cheese, one that's very lightly pressed to make for modestly creamier texture than our super fresh rounds of City Goats, then rolled in fresh tarragon leaves.

4.) The City Goat- is made using overnight stetting of the milk and gentle hand ladling. Hand ladling gives this cheese an amazing, evolving texture, from light and airy when very fresh to firm and perfect for crumbling over salad when older. It is fresh and crisp with a lemony tang.

Jamie emphasizes that good milk is clean, high in butter fat and protein. This combination gives the cheese it's great flavor.

Some cheese statistics:

When cheeses have been opened, refrigerate them so that they are between 50 and 60 degrees. This way natural bacteria's can develop.

Paper is better then plastic to store the cheese in.

Natural blue or green molds are safe, but after you refrigerate the opened cheese, any additional mold should no be on the cheese.

Please visit Zingerman's online at www.zingermans.com or note that they give free creamery tours on Sunday.

We would like to especially thanks the sponsors for this dynamic event. They are:
Theresa from Shenandoah Country Club
Sam  from Sam Sarkis Photography
Dale from Blossom's
Betsy from Chair Covers and Linens
and of course Zingerman's

Job Opportunities

Sterling Inn Banquet and Conference Center is looking for an Sales & Catering Coordinator.  This position is an entry Level Hotel Sales and Catering Position with lots of room for advancement, No experience required, computer knowledge helpful, Hours Monday-Friday 8:30 to 5:00 pm (no holiday’s) ; great benefits; 401k fax resume to Amanda at 586-979-7962 or email Amanda@sterlinginn.com

Responsibilities:

The Finalizations and Logistics Technician is responsible for finalizing all orders and making arrangements for local services (deliveries, installs, etc).  This individual also assists the Detroit Sales Manager with sales and oversees the Local Install Team.  Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:

• Must have proven sales experience.
• Must possess above-average organizational skills and problem solving skills.
• Must have the ability to be flexible on shifts, including weekends.
• Must possess superior customer service skills.
• Experience within the event industry preferred.
• Must be a proven self-motivator, with self-guided disciplines.
• Must have the ability to work with little to no supervision, along with the ability to work within a team environment. Must have the ability to work in a fast-paced, high pressure environment.
• Must possess above-average computer skills.

All qualified applicants should e-mail a resume, along with salary requirements, to Kristen@linenhero.com.

MPE Event Productions, Inc. has a Great Career Opportunity for a Great Floral Designer.

Experienced Event Floral Designers can send their resume to mark@mpeevents.com