We encouraged everyone to act as leaders of our industry, therefore, we must EFFECT Change or Change with AFFECT us….it goes hand in hand with MPI - International's mantra to THINK DIFFERENTLY …to MEET DIFFERENTLY.

So we did, we met differently as the Sheraton menu was a Greek family style -demonstrating, fellowship, unique and different and cost effective.

I then reported back on a phone call I received from the Governor's Office and a letter that the Governor is preparing to send to the President and our Congressional delegation regarding Washington's outward disapproval of meetings and conferences as a response to TARP.

On brighter subjects, we reported in on the May 20th MPI Aloha Chapter 2nd Annual Gala where "Innovation – is bringing us back to the future.”  Mike, I hope you can make it to this event where we will be recognizing industry leaders who have, who are and others who are rising stars in making a difference to Hawaii's Meetings and Events industry.

You missed our fabulous Featured Guest Speaker, Doug Smith, “Keeping Your Sales Up in a Down Economy”.  Doug encouraged us all to put a value on everything we do - so when we give it away, people learn how much they’ve gained, 'complimentary' - it was an inspiring seminar.

Revell Newton then shared the latest news about the Royal Hawaiian (we missed you at their Grand Re-Opening event last Saturday), and he then toured people around the ever evolving Sheraton Waikiki Hotel.

A hui hou!