by Laura Bergersen, Installation Chairperson

The heat was on at the MPI Southern California Chapter Installation Awards and Dinner held on Thursday, June 26. This year the committee was challenged to change the format and get the fire burning for the 2008/2009 year.

Held at the Torrance Marriott South Bay the setting was perfect to celebrate the passing of the torch and get fired up for the future! Recently completing a $13 million renovation, the Asian décor was the perfect feel for the awards and dinner. A welcome reception began in the Zen Garden where the LA Jazz Bands Trio played in the background, while volunteers were recognized pool side with host Michael Dominguez, Loews Ventana Resort.

At 6 p.m. the chimes rang and guests were led into the Grand Ballroom which had been transformed into a “flaming” stage for the award presentations. Chairs were covered in yellow, red and orange spandex while the stage drapes were washed in sunset colors and drawn back with red flames shooting from the floor. Ronnie Jayne kicked off the awards by singing her own version of the “Heat is On” – MPISCC style.

Emcee Jared Young from Feet First Eventertainment began the awards presentation by introducing MaryKim O’Brien. MaryKim showcased all the accomplishments for last year and recognized all the Strategic Partners from 2007 – 2008. Lastly she had the honor of awarding the President’s Award to Adele Santos Yee and Erick Long.

The team of MaryKim and John Ehlenfeldt recognized the new 20- and 30-year members along with members from 20, 25 and 30 years that make up both planners and suppliers. A total of 34 members fall into this combined category -- what a testament to this chapter. John then presented the Past President’s Award to Kay Boles. He also announced the winners of the 2007-08 Gary J Rosenberg Scholarship which this year had three winners – Judi Froehlich-Pascoe, Keri Shaffer, and Monica Smith. Lastly he presented Margie Johnston with the Lois K Hauser Service Award. Though Margie could not be there to accept the award, it meant a lot to her since she and Lois were close friends.

Being a part of the Southern California community gives MPISCC the opportunity to give back. This year, MaryKim, with the help of David Finch, recognized four charities: Hillsides, Rainbow Services, TreePeople and the Los Angeles Ronald McDonald House. All four received a check and a big thank you for all that they do in their communities.

While MaryKim stayed on stage, Jared welcomed President-Elect Linda Jenkins to recognize some of their own peers. The awards and winners included: Rising Star, Beth Daniel from Access Destination Services; Shining Star, Carlos Murillo from Pechanga; Supplier of the Year, Steve McCleave, DMCP from Access Destination Services; Planner of the Year, Beverly Laing, CMP, CTC, from JNR Incorporated and Chapter Leader of the Year, Judi Froehlich-Pascoe, from BCD Meetings.

Lastly it was time to “Pass the Torch.” Maribel Denner from our host hotel had the great privilege to recognize the 2007/2008 Board and to welcome to the stage and swear in the 2008/2009 board. MaryKim then passed the gavel to the new president, Linda Jenkins.

After a tearful thank you and welcome to the new board, guests were escorted to a brand new ballroom where tables circled a beautiful center bar. LA Jazz Bands Quintet welcomed diners into the room and played jazz and blues throughout dinner. Wine was hosted by South Coast Winery of Temecula and enhanced the specially prepared menu that included an heirloom tomato salad drizzled with a balsamic herb dressing followed side by side with braised short ribs in a black sauce and seared halibut covered with citrus buerre blanc.

After lots of great conversation and a wonderful meal, guests were invited back to the Zen Garden for desserts and coffee. Dessert highlights included fire-themed cupcakes that stood high with icing and cookies that were decorated to remind guests of ice. And the one item no guest could resist – a chocolate fountain.

The 2008 / 2009 year blazed the way with a new format on the awards and dinner. Some of the highlights to look forward to this year include growing membership by 5%; continuing the green initiative, increasing member satisfaction with great education and marketplace opportunities. Members will be encouraged to volunteer for the many events done throughout the year and be encouraged to use the web for communication.

Remember it takes three things to make a fire: fuel, air and heat. The Southern California Chapter of MPI has all the elements and is positioned to set the world on fire!

A special thanks to all the vendors who donated their time and materials: Adventure in Parties, Aspect Lighting, AV Concepts, Chameleon Chairs, Jerry Cowart Designers, Eventworks, Feet First Entertainment, LA Jazz Bands Trio & Quintet, Los Angeles Party Design, Marriott Torrance South Bay, Quantum Signs, South Coast Winery Resort and Spa, Spandex USA, Vernon Photography, Viva- Teleprompting Services and 11 NORTH Productions.

Finally, the committee which began as a small flame ignited an event that was one of the most talked about of the season. Thank you to: Elizabeth Brazil, Maribel Denner, John Gomes, Robert Hatfield, Ronnie Jayne, Ken Jenkins, Margie Johnston, Jenni Okamura Michelle Nowak, Sandra Richlin, and Amy Zelinsky.