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Oklahoma Society of Association Executives |
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NewsMay Luncheon Recap: Hall & Dunlap Discuss Oklahoma Politics
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February 5, 2010, Crowne Plaza Hotel, Oklahoma City - When it comes to the third largest industry in our state, it pays to go green. Tourism is the money-maker that generates $6 billion a year for Oklahoma. With more travelers becoming environmentally conscious, the Oklahoma Tourism Department has launched a program to encourage conservation.
To explain ECO (Encouraging Conservation in Oklahoma), OSAE invited Jessica Blackstock to speak at the February luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Blackstock, sustainable initiatives coordinator, Travel Promotion Division, Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, has been travelling the state promoting ECO. To reflect the them of her talk, the luncheon tablescapes featured some green elements including fresh tulips arrangements and tulip bulb favors for each guest, thanks to factor 110.
Recycling programs, explaining terms like sustainability, carbon footprint and organic are all part of ECO, and Blackstock says that the response has been positive all across Oklahoma. Blackstock said “green travelers,” particularly business travelers, will notice and be loyal to restaurants, hotels and other businesses that have programs to conserve resources, if costs can be contained to make it economically feasible.
The efforts can even save lives. Blackstock applauded the Colcord Hotel in Oklahoma City participating in Clean the World. The Colcord donates slightly used soap for recycling to poor countries (Clean the World's efforts are currently concentrated toward earthquake-ravaged Haiti). She explained that soap could cost more than a family earns in a week, therefore, donating hygeine items, instead of throwing them away, can help reduce illnesses and the spread of germs.
Blackstock, who is no stranger to OSAE, encouraged visits to the ECO website to find out more.
“Thanks for supporting the Blackstock family,” she said. She is the daughter of Sam Blackstock, CAE, executive vice president, Oklahoma Academy of Family Physicians, and grand-daughter of Ben Blackstock, former long-time executive director, Oklahoma Press Association.
Also in February, OSAE honored our Past Presidents including Sam Blackstock and Ben Blackstock. The March 5 OSAE meeting will be held at the Skirvin Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City.
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OSAE Past-Presidents front row; Kris Sanders, Sam Blackstock, CAE, Charlotte Edwards, CAE, Ben Blackstock, Paul Matthews, Bob Berry, CAE. Back row; Sherri Penner, CAE, current OSAE president, Lyle Kelsey, CAE, Jim Sullins, CAE, Ronn Cupp, Matt Robison, CAE, Greta Stewart, CAE, Forrest Wilkins, Pat Hall, CAE, ASAE Fellow, Bill Moyer, CAE and Ed Kelsay, CAE, ASAE Fellow. |
Remington Park, Oklahoma City (October 2, 2009) - When it comes to campaigning for MAPS 3, the proposed penny sales tax in Oklahoma City to fund a new convention center and other projects, OSAE members are being asked to help sell it to voters.
The asking comes from Mike Carrier, president of the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau who spoke at the October luncheon at Remington Park. Carriers talk focused mostly on the convention center aspect of the $777 million project that includes eight improvement projects in all.
The price tag for the new convention center portion of MAPS 3 is $280 million. The new convention center will replace the Cox Business Services Convention Center and will include exhibit halls, meeting rooms, ballrooms, mixed uses and parking.
Carrier acknowledged that OSAE members already understand the issues surrounding Oklahoma Citys convention facilities, and the huge economic impact that conventions bring to a community in terms of payrolls, local tax revenue and employment taxes.
He said from the association members who book and hold meetings at the Cox Center (or do not because of space limitations and availability), to the Strategic Partner members who work with the facility and benefit from convention business, everyone stands to gain from a new convention center.
Carrier emphasized that while a new MAPS 3 Convention Center would draw more national and out-of-state groups, the new center is also for our own community.
The center will help associations get the dates that you want because we will have the space, and hotel rooms to accommodate groups concurrently and consecutively, he said.
While there is nothing official about the new site of the center, Carrier indicated that it could be south of the Ford Center downtown, and likely will have ample parking space as well as convenient access for exhibitors and will allow expansion.
"If it passes, we will turn to the association community to help us work with the architects on designs that will accommodate your needs and be a national showcase," said Carrier.
Carrier who came to the OKC-CVB from Shreveport, says that the first two MAPS projects that brought new venues such as the Ford Center, Bricktown Ballpark, canal, library and improved schools are the envy of other CVBs who are impressed that Oklahoma City accomplished all of the improvements debt-free.
"MAPS 3 is designed so we do not have to bear the brunt of paying for it with property taxes and associations and others paying the bond debt repeatedly," said Carrier. He also pointed out that out-of-town guests, including convention visitors, are the ones who will be helping to raise the MAPS 3 sales tax revenues when they visit.
Carrier said the campaign is building momentum. A website, yesformaps.com, has information about the entire campaign and on how to volunteer for it.
"We want MAPS 3 to pass for the economic impact it will have on Oklahoma, and we ask you to help us sell it," he said.
Registered voters in the State of Oklahoma who are residents of Oklahoma City will vote on the project December 8.
The Reed Center - Midwest City (September 11, 2009) - “We’re Oklahomans. This is just a chug hole on life’s road,” said Oklahoma State Treasurer Scott Meacham when he talked about the recession, the state’s economy and the resilience of Oklahomans at the September OSAE luncheon at the Reed Center in Midwest City.
Meacham said while the global recession was slower to come to Oklahoma than the rest of the country, it has arrived, as evidenced by the state’s higher unemployment, lower tax revenues and, most of all, and lower prices for oil and gas.
“Still, we’re Oklahomans who have weathered the Dust Bowl and the Oil Bust,” he said and forecasted that we’ll make it through this global recession as well.
Meacham said that Oklahoma City was named the “third most recession proof city ” by Forbes Magazine in 2008 because our economy, driven by commodities such as natural gas, oil, wheat and cattle didn’t immediately feel the drain when the financial markets tanked and the mortgage crisis escalated a year ago.
He said a cold winter in the Northeast part of the country would jump start the Oklahoma energy industry, particularly natural gas, which in turn helps local communities and dumps tax revenue from employment, production and royalties to state coffers.
Other than that, Meacham said he has no crystal ball and cannot see the bottom of this recession.
Still, Meacham was upbeat and said he is energized by the challenge of managing the state’s money through this uncertain time. Meacham said that the state continues to pay its bills, continues to manage a $5 billion investment portfolio on the state’s behalf, and is grateful for the state’s constitution that mandates that we live within our means.
Meacham said Oklahoma generally ranks 50th among states in the tax burden paid by its citizens. "We're trying to get our ranking even lower," he quipped, "but are having trouble figuring out how!"
Meacham served as the State Finance Director before becoming treasurer in June 2005. He also serves on the governor's cabinet as Secretary for Finance and Revenue. Meacham is the governor's primary financial and budget advisor and serves as the governor's chief negotiator on budget, legislative and tribal matters as well as other issues.
As the state weathers this recession, and state government struggles to continue services with fewer resources and fewer employees, Meacham thanked OSAE members for filling in the gaps through their associations and members.
OSAE thanks Meacham for his informative talk at the September luncheon. Next month’s luncheon will be held on October, 2, 2009, at Remington Park in Oklahoma City. Our speaker will be Mike Carrier, president, Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Oklahoma City (July 21, 2009) - Sheri Penner, CAE, executive director of the Oklahoma Society of Professional Engineers has been elected president of OSAE.
Penner and other new officers took office recently at the Society’s annual meeting held in Tulsa.
Other officers include:
President-Elect, Tawni Phelan, CAE, CMP, Oklahoma Society of CPAs;
Past –President, Greta Shepherd Stewart, CAE, Oklahoma Primary Care Association;
Secretary/Treasurer, J. Scott Hopkins, National Electrical Contractors Association;
Vice President – Meetings, Scott Dewald, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association;
Vice President – Membership, Mark Bledsoe, CAE, United Suburban Schools Association;
Vice President – Communications, Jan Gilmore Loftis, Gilmore Communications;
Vice President – Education, Ken King, CAE, Oklahoma State Medical Association;
Affiliate Liaison, Sheila Smith, Embassy Suites Norman;
Affiliate Liaison, Brian Ferrell, CMP, factor110;
Legal Counsel, Ed Kelsay, JD, CAE, ASAE Fellow, and,
Executive Director, Richard Hess, CAE, Richard Hess & Associates.
Take a fond look back at our Footprints of Success.
Thanks for making footprints of success at the 2009 OSAE Annual Meeting!
Hilton Skirvin Hotel (June 1, 2009) - “Politics is a combat sport,” says Pat Hall, CAE, ASAE Fellow. Although he didn’t wear a helmet, pads or even a bullet-proof vest, Hall certainly demonstrated the combative nature of politics when he dodged a bullet or two from Jim Dunlap, during the June OSAE Luncheon at the Hilton Skirvin Hotel.
Hall’s and Dunlap’s discourse is an OSAE favorite, as the pair reviewed the recently completed session of the Oklahoma Legislative Session, last year’s general election and looked ahead to next year’s general election. The pair also host a television show called “Inside the Issues” which airs in the Oklahoma City and Tulsa markets and can also be seen on the Majority Plus website. Majority plus is the lobbying company owned by Hall and Dunlap.
Hall, a Democrat, clearly relished the opportunity to chant “Hope and Change” just as he did at an OSAE luncheon a year ago to demonstrate his support for President Obama.
Dunlap, a Republican and former state legislator, credited the new president with solidifying Oklahoma’s position as a “conservative” state since voters elected the first Republican majority to the Oklahoma House and Senate during the ’08 elections.
“It’s a new dynamic, and they haven’t screwed up yet,” said Dunlap. Hall said it was more like the legislature received an “extreme makeover.”
Dunlap and Hall praised the legislature and governor for working together to pass a state budget during a tough economic year. They also agreed that the federal economic stimulus package gave the state a buffer from having to dip into the Rainy Day Fund, particularly in the areas of funding common education, higher education, career-tech, and transportation.
“Orange cones are a good thing for our state,” said Dunlap who quoted studies which estimate that road projects in the state, denoted by those orange cones, will provide 30,000 jobs.
Hall was not as gracious when evaluating some of the bills that went through the legislative session, referencing a failed measure he nicknamed “Guns Gone Wild” (guns on college campuses) and other bills involving puppy mills and legislation allowing Oklahomans to hunt wild pigs from helicopters.
“They cussed and discussed more bills involving animals than involving children,” said Hall. “I think that is kind of sad.”
Hall and Dunlap both agreed that the face of politics is changing with the rise of social media connections such as Twitter and Facebook where voters have more ways to connect to and monitor their elected officials.
With next year’s general election already heating up, Hall and Dunlap said that there is no shortage of interesting races to watch. The offices of Governor, Lieutenant Governor and Attorney General and at least one congressional race will be wide open with no incumbents running.
Hall said he expects the campaigns to go negative early and stay negative during the 2010 election cycle.
“Politics is a combat sport. Always has been, always will!” said Hall.
Renaissance Hotel (Cox Convention Center), May 2, 2009 - What are you doing?
If you are among the seven million people worldwide who TWITTER, you might be answering that question in 140-character increments.
If you are on Facebook, you make up the fifth largest world population behind China, India, United States and Indonesia.
Social media, such as Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, is all the rage. But what are its merits for your association or business? OSAE both asks the question and provides some insights and answers. At the May luncheon, Kurt Bernhardt, MBA, showcased part of the program he will present more indepth at the OSAE annual meeting in Tulsa July, 13 -15.
Although it is yet to be officially defined by the scribes at Webster or other traditional dictionary sources, Social Media is described on wikipedia.com as the “democratization of information, transforming people from content readers into publishers. Social media has become extremely popular because it allows people to connect in the online world to form relationships for personal and business. Businesses also refer to social media as user-generated contect (UGC) or consumer-generated media (CGM).
Bernhardt said Facebook, one of the most popular social media vehicles, was launched only five years ago by Harvard college student who designed it primarily for college students as a networking tool. By August of 2008, FB had 100 million users. It took only eight more months for that number to double to 200 million and for the 35 – 49 year olds to become the dominant demographic.
Twitter hit the Internet in 2006 and is rather simple in its approach. Users either use their cell phone to text or their computer to type in status messages using only 140-characters. In February of 2008, Twitter had about a half million users. A year later, it had seven million users including many celebrities, professional athletes and politicians including President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.
Bernhardt said the “tweets” (messages) can be useful, such as sharing news, information or current events. But he said users also “tweet” more trivial and personal information such as what they had for breakfast.
“It can be hard to weed out good posts from the more personal information. However, some of the personal posts can also be good for relationship building,” said Bernhardt.
Bernhardt is the web developer for the Oklahoma Society of CPAs, which has fully embraced social media to provide members with news, helpful information, meeting notices and updates.
“My goal for the OSCPA is to use the latest Web technologies to make the Society's site a dynamic and useful tool for members and the public,” said Bernhardt.
Many OSAE members participate in social media as evidenced by the number of hands that were raised when Bernhardt asked the May luncheon audience whether they were on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.
Some members, however, question issues such as privacy, content control and simply being able to “keep up” with something else while managing a normal workload. Bernhardt said there are controls that help with some of those issues, and encouraged OSAE members to carefully weigh the merits of social media to see if it would be right for their association.
To hear more from Bernhardt, register for the OSAE annual meeting in Tulsa, July 13 -15.
Waterford Hotel, April 3,2009 - We’re doing fine, Oklahoma, at least when it compares to most of the rest of the country during the recession. Deidre Myers, director of research and policy for the State Commerce Department, provided an economic progress report for Oklahoma during the April luncheon at the Waterford Hotel.
Myers, the daughter of long-time OSAE member Dean Myers, began her talk by reminding us to view economic data with a discerning eye, no matter what the media does with it. She said the media often misinterprets data and does not offer it in the correct perspective.
She concluded her talk by sharing a Louisiana State University research study that evaluated “predictive powers” of economists, meteorologists and “fortune tellers.”
Myers reported that the scholarly study actually found that fortune tellers are more accurate in predicting the future, although economists fared better in accuracy than meteorologists. She said she is not a fortune teller, and the subject of the economy is nebulous, but there are indicators and data sets that provide some promising news for the state’s economic future.
She said key economic indicators to watch are employment, consumer spending and housing.
Myers said Oklahoma has experienced a dip in unemployment in recent months due to losses in manufacturing and lower prices for oil and natural gas. But she said Oklahoma’s unemployment numbers have only recently started to dip unlike many other states. Myers predicts that the spring and summer will see more job losses, but the fall will bring a better job picture for the state.
Myers presented graphs and charts reflecting Oklahoma’s stability in terms of consumer spending and housing. She said big ticket items, especially automobiles, are down but added it is a great time to buy a vehicle or a home, because of low interest rates and retailers who are anxious to sell. She added that confidence runs a capitalist economy. Curent lower prices on a variety of goods and services from building supplies to everyday consumer items will play a part in improving the economy, she said.
Regarding housing and banking, Myers said the Oklahoma has been immune from serious concern. She said foreclosure rates are far from the bottom, and banks are stable.
Myers said a real boon to the state’s coffers would be higher natural gas prices. Taxes on drilling, extraction and rigs help fund Oklahoma’s budget, however, lower prices have caused rigs to close, tax revenue to decline and job losses. She said one potential boost to the energy industry in Oklahoma would tie to a federal bill that would give more incentives for automobiles that are powered by alternative fuels.
Myers luncheon talk followed a morning education session on the economy that also included some of the state’s top experts on the subject. OSAE thanks Myers and the other speakers: Tony Hutchison, former director of the Oklahoma Department of State Finance and current Associate Vice Chancellor of Strategic Planning and Analysis for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education; Roger Beverage, President and CEO of the Oklahoma Bankers Association and Mike Means, Executive Vice President of the Oklahoma State Homebuilders Association.
The May 1, 2009, luncheon will be held the Renaissance Hotel.
Oklahoma Heritage Museum, March 6, 2009- “It won’t work without people like you coming to the table.”
The “it” is transforming the Oklahoma City Public School District to better serve students.
The “you” are the professionals and community leaders who personify OSAE members.
The statement was passionately made by Angela Monson who was elected Chair of the Oklahoma City School District in February. Monson, a former state lawmaker who calls many OSAE members friends said she enjoyed being able to spend time with OSAE and to talk about her new role. Monson currently is associate provost for community partnerships and health policy at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.
Monson is the recipient of numerous awards, including recognition from the American Psychiatric Association, Oklahoma Public Employees Association, Oklahoma Psychological Association and the National Association of Social Workers and the Oklahoma Academy of Family Physicians. She is a member of the first class inducted into the Child Advocate Hall of Fame, and served as president of the National Conference of State Legislatures.
During her talk to OSAE, Monson outlined five major goals for the Oklahoma City School District. Each goal, she challenged, will not be achieved without the help of the community. The first area involves achieving academic excellence for all of the district’s campuses. The second area is improving attendance by students who are truant or who are suspended.
Third, Monson explained, she wants citizens to become engaged in finding solutions and issues in providing safety and security in our schools. In an age where metal detectors and armed officers are prescribed at many school buildings, Monson also said she would like to see mentors help students reject an atmosphere of solving problems with violence.
Monson also calls for more attention to be given to special needs children. She asks for more resources to be given toward helping special needs children to become productive members of our community when they graduate.
Finally, Monson said her fifth objective involves expanding extracurricular activities for students. That is where, she said, people such as OSAE members could be most involved.
She said the realities of budget constraints that lead to cuts in programs such as the arts and physical education could be made better if community members helped.
"We welcome people like you to come to the table and identify our resources,” she said. “We need parents, business owners, the faith-based community and non-profits. If you are interested in making advances where all children can learn, answer the call.
Monson referenced a local dance studio that comes to a school to provide after-school dance lessons as well as businesses which make its employees available for tutoring.
The April 3, 2009, luncheon will be held at the Waterford Hotel in Oklahoma City.
Embassy Suites, Norman, Feb. 6, 2009 - Patrick Boylan the President and Founder of PDC Productions says while a big budget certainly helps in putting pizzazz in a meeting, but big bucks sometimes aren’t as important as innovation.
Boylan served as the luncheon speaker at the February OSAE luncheon in Norman. He worked with the staff at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Norman to showcase a luncheon which was just a little different.
Boylan said his company caters not only to large exhibitions that attract thousands but can also be appropriate to a group of a hundred or so. According to Boylan, “Adding pizzazz to your meeting doesn’t have to be a budget-buster.” He said it can be done on a modest budget although it might require more planning and some innovation. He said he wouldn’t recommend it for all meetings but pointed out that he had borrowed the planters from the lobby to decorate his stage. Boylan reasoned, “Well we didn’t have a budget so I just borrowed from the hotel.” He quickly offered a disclaimer saying he wouldn’t suggest this unless you have a great relationship with the hotel GM and you’ve cleared it well in advance.
According to Boylan, too many Event Managers worry solely about food costs without considering the entire event. He said as a rule of thumb it makes sense to spend just as much on the staging as the food. Boylan said most of the people who attend functions don’t come for the food. He said they come for the networking, the camaraderie, and the overall event. He said staging and lighting is equal to food and beverage in that case.
Boylan was complementary of the new Embassy Suites Hotel and Convention Center saying the designers had included many amenities which made event planning easier and often less expensive. He encouraged OSAE attendees to tour the facility to see what he called the largest convention area in Oklahoma. He predicted everyone would be both surprised and pleased.
Boylan said, "If you ask us to bid on the production of your event, we will initially include everything we can come up with to improve your meeting. How else will you know what’s possible and available?” He said if that doesn’t work within your budget requirements then they will suggest changes. According to Boylan, he would rather offer you all that is available and then make adjustments as the budget requires.
OSAE was pleased to welcome back many of its past presidents including OSAE’s Founder and first President Former Governor George Nigh. At the February luncheon, OSAE’s highest award, the George Nigh Association Executive of the Year, is named for the OSAE founder.
The March 6 OSAE luncheon will be held at the Oklahoma Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
Turning Around Turnover: How to Keep the Best Employees
Photo album: Holiday Celebration at the Governor's Mansion
Member profiles: Amanda Burke and Paul Jackson
Holiday Inn & Suites, Jan. 9, 2009 - “May you not just survive this year, but thrive.”
OSAE President Greta Stewart, CAE, helped ring in the 2009 OSAE luncheon schedule by offering a toast at the January meeting.
OSAE monthly meetings offer great opportunities for networking, hearing from great speakers and gaining insight on the association management profession. The January offering set the bar high with a “Firing Line” speaker panel of our own OSAE members.
Gary Rosenhamer, CPCU,CIC, North American Insurance Group, Ed Kelsay, CAE, ASAE Fellow and OSAE general counsel, and Jim Hopper, president and CEO of the Oklahoma Restaurant Association made up the Firing Line. Richard Hess, CAE, OSAE executive director, served as moderator.
The trio answered questions that Hess had gathered prior to the meeting from members, and also fielded questions from the audience on topics ranging from insurance coverage to executive session to board relationships and answered many questions from the audience. A few highlights are recapped here.
Hess said many of his colleagues have questions about association insurance coverage and he asked Rosenhamer to address that issue. Rosenhamer said that every association needs to be familiar with Director’s and Officer Liability coverage that ensures a group has protection on issues from breech of contract to mismanagement. He said policies range in price from $800 - $3,000 depending on the size of an organization and its policy needs.
Kelsay was asked about the particulars of holding an executive session, (a board meeting that is not held in open session). Kelsay said that organizations that are not government entities (school boards, agencies, etc.) often make this issue more complicated than necessary. He explained that most executive sessions involve either money or personnel and can be called anytime, even during a meeting. A board member or a chairperson can call for the session and ask whomever they wish to leave the proceeding. He said that whatever action is taken in executive session should then be repeated when the meeting is reconvened to the action can be part of the meeting minutes.
Hess then asked Hopper to address board relations and navigating controversial issues.
Hopper said he encourages board members to “lay down their swords” on the tough issues.
“Remind them they are representing an industry as a whole, not their individual business interests,” said Hopper. Similarly, Hooper advises association executives to not get personally caught up in the drama of a particular issue and to enlist a board member that has the board's attention to steer the discussion.
Thanking the speakers and attendees at the close of the meeting, Stewart commented that networking is a very valuable networking tool and OSAE provides a great forum to do it.
“OSAE is my favorite organization,” she said to applause.
The February 2 meeting will be held at the Embassy Suites in Norman and will feature Patrick Boylan from PDC Productions who will speak on meeting pizzazz. OSAE members who bring guests will be eligible to win prizes as part of the 2009 Membership Drive.
November 14, 2008, Waterford Hotel, Oklahoma City -When it comes to the economy, it’s best to keep your emotions out of it. Russ Pyle, Vice President-Senior Financial Advisor, Merrill Lynch, said he’s given that counsel to his clients countless times over the last several months.
He repeated the advice to a full room of OSAE members and guests who came to hear him talk about “Smart Investing in Tough Financial Times” at the November luncheon at the Waterford Hotel.
“We need to keep our emotions out of investing. When we panic, we tend to make wrong decisions,” he said.
Pyle points to unprecedented media coverage of the markets that has fueled the panic. Cable business news stations, blogs and pundits turn plummeting markets and failed business news into doomsday scenarios to keep viewers coming back to watch.
“They sell viewership. They want us to redo our 401K on Tuesday, and then do it again later in the week based on another pundit’s dire prediction. The media is NOT our friend,” he said.
As an example, Pyle said that by buying into the doom and gloom the media spouts out about the economy, consumers have curtailed spending.
“When spending slows down, the night shifts get shut down at the factories, and we have a domino effect,” he said.
Without denying we are likely into a recession, Pyle was reassuring about the economy and showed OSAE members a list of Standard & Poor’s Index from 1926 – 2007. The list recounted all of the “down” years, such as the years of the Depression in the 1930s. But in the subsequent 70 years or so, there were only 11 “down” years until the “dot.com” bust of the early 2000s. And every down trend was followed by years of unprecedented growth (and risk).
He said that Wall Street is “on sale” right now. And just like we do at our favorite departments stores, when there is a “sale,” we should buy.
But, he advises us to be informed about what we are buying.
“Know what you are investing in. If you take nothing else away from what I’m saying today, make sure you know what you own. It’s your money,” he said.
Pyle also shared some sage advice offered by American investor and philanthropist Warren Buffett, "When people are greedy, be fearful. When people are fearful be greedy."
The housing slump gets partial blame for the current economic downturn, Pyle said, although the housing fiasco hasn’t hit in Oklahoma as badly as it has elsewhere.
Pyle reminisced that lending institutions used to be more thorough on having potential home buyers prove income and assets.
“Then lenders began checking borrower’s credit with a mirror: if there was evidence of a breath, they got a loan,” he quipped.
Pyle also pointed that many lenders encouraged and allowed borrowers to fold in closing costs, and even money for new furniture into their loans.
The result, he said, many Americans are tragically in debt. Pyle recalled the days of our parents' and grandparents' generations who would not (and could not) buy something if they could not afford it.
Overall, Pyle said that “America is an optimistic country,” and he has full confidence that better times, and better investing are ahead of us.
“Loved the opening speaker.”
“Capt. John Kielty was remarkable.”
“I learned new information to help build a bigger and better team.”
“Very appropriate and timely.”
“Golf at Tinker Air Force Base was a fun and unique experience.”
The Tulsa and OKC hospitality communities outdid themselves again to spoil OSAE!”
"Our dogtag-styled name badges were a clever touch!"
And you thought the only purpose for conference evaluations was for drawings for prizes!
Of course, your evaluations were extremely valuable to measure the success of our 2008 meeting, OSAE Bootcamp: The Power of Associations. Those who won giftcards and other prizes for filling out their evaluations are especially glad they made the effort.
Thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored, supported and learned from our three-day annual meeting that was held in July at the Reed Center in Midwest City.
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| Captain John Kielty and Richard L Hess, CAE. Capt. Kielty motivated us to make it an OSAE Day! |
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| There were many opportunities to network and team build. |
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| The changing of the guard: Stan Sweeney, RN, becomes OSAE past-president as Greta Shepherd Stewart, CAE, takes office as OSAE president. |
The patriotic-themed meeting was a perfect backdrop for sessions that offered us new tools about how to do our jobs more effectively.
Capt. John Kielty was the opening speaker. He completed a 26-year career with the US Navy and currently is a coach and teacher in Oklahoma City. As motivational as he was eloquent, Capt. Kielty encouraged us all to have “a great OSAE day” everyday.
He shared several bootcamp buzzwords and applied them to our theme: expectation, teamwork, commitment, honor, courage, goals, motivation, discipline and service.
“If you are the boss, be the boss,” he said. “If you are not the boss, serve him (or her).”
He also encouraged us as leaders to not have an “on or off switch” style when it comes to the way we interact with our staffs, members or clients.
Capt. Keilty said if we approach everyone with a “what can I do to make your day better” attitude, it will help boost the productivity and attitude of those with whom you work, and will make your organization stronger.
Wayne Mitchell, IOM, founder of Prodcomm based in Augusta, Maine, was a luncheon keynote speaker and also taught a general session. He shared several anecdotes and experiences from his 30-year career working with the businesses and organizations.
Mitchell said that too many associations base their activities and practices on tradition rather than what matters to members.
When it comes to boards, Mitchell said there are four types of persons he always wants on his team: the warrior, who wants something done NOW; the thinker, who is creative and thinks of different ways to do things; the analyzer, who will keep things like finances on the table and the peacemaker, who will make sure the other three don’t argue all of the time and stay united.
Mitchell encouraged organizations to have collective goals and build a team environment so that everyone will step up to the plate.
He said that organizations do not celebrate enough. “Make heroes out of the superstars in your organization and appropriately recognize them.”
He illustrated that point by applauding OSAE.
“This conference is darned impressive! Hats off to PDC and your annual meeting team. Looking in from the outside, this is flawless. You all knew your roles and you did it!”
The changing of the guard: g. The OSAE virtual tradeshow remains online so you may visit our sponsors again.
Members of the 2008 Conference Committee were Sheila Smith, co-chair, Brian Farrell, CMP, co-chair, Tawni Phelan, CAE, CMP, Mark Bledsoe, Shannon Brown, Amanda Burks, Vicki Burnett, Deanna Fields, Koby Fleck, Betsy Fry, Jeanine Fuller, Judy Grant, Roberta Helsely, Angela Holden, Kari Hood, Robin Mickel, CMP, Brendan Murphy, Paula Neal, John Pedigo, John Roe, Alan Sims, Charlie Swinton, Ginger Thompson, Sue THurston, D’Lese Travis and Kris Sanders.
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| Stan Sweeney presents the George Nigh Association Executive of the Year Award to Lyle Kelsey, CAE, CMBE. |
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| Craig Buford, CAE, was named the Professional of the Year. |
Oklahoma City (July 21, 2008)-The Oklahoma Society of Association Executives honored outstanding members during its recent annual meeting. The meeting, “Association Boot Camp,” was held at the Reed Center in Midwest City.
The group’s highest honor, The George Nigh Association Executive of the Year Award, was presented to Lyle Kelsey, CAE, CMBE. Kelsey has more than 35 years experience in the healthcare field with the majority of time spent in professional association management. Currently, he serves as the executive director of the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision. Prior to that, he was with the Oklahoma State Medical Association.
Kelsey served as OSAE’s president in 1994 - 1995 and previously received the OSAE Professional of the Year Award and a Key Award, honoring his career achievements and service to OSAE. The award is named for former Governor Nigh who served as OSAE’s first president in 1963.
Other award recipients were Craig Buford, CAE, as the Professional of the Year. Buford is the president and CEO of the Community Bankers Association of Oklahoma.
Robin Mickel, CMP, received the Affiliate of the Year Award. Mickel serves as director of operations for PDC Productions, a Norman-based company that offers production services for meetings and events.
Tracy Boyd, CHSP, received the Key Award. She is the senior sales manager with the Holiday Inn-Oklahoma City Airport.
The “boot camp” theme of the annual meeting emphasized moving associations forward. In addition to outstanding speakers and an amazing tradeshow, the highlight of the meeting was the annual awards program where we honor those who mean so much to our organization and profession.
June 6, 2008, Cole's Garden, Oklahoma City-With chants of “hope and change,” and a dig about another year without tort reform in our state, Pat Hall and Jim Dunlap kept OSAE members on their toes as much as they kept them laughing in their seats at the June luncheon at Coles Garden.
Sharp-witted and experienced in the ways of Oklahoma politics and also savvy about the national scene, Pat Hall, CAE, ASAE Fellow, and Jim Dunlap are always an OSAE favorite. As a bonus, this appearance coincided with lots of political happenings in the headlines. It was the week for filing for the 2008 Oklahoma general election, the week Sen. Barack Obama sewed up the delegate count to be the democratic nominee for president and it was soon after the state legislature adjourned for the year.
Hall is a former OSAE president, and the first recipient of OSAE’s highest honor, The George Nigh Association Executive of the Year Award (1992). He led the Oklahoma Public Employees Association for 16 years, the State Democratic Party and has had his consulting firm since 1999.Dunlap was the Republican Floor Leader in the Oklahoma State Senate and also served in the house. He was nominated to the Senior Advisory Council for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and was the 2002 chairman of the American Legislative Exchange Council.
Together, Hall and Dunlap are the owners of Majority Plus, LLC, a bipartisan political consulting and lobbying firm with a wide array of clients.
Neither of them gave high marks to the just ended legislative session. Hall pointed out the lack of raises for state employees for teachers. Dunlap said the session hit a record for passing the least amount of bills.
Both gentlemen acknowledged that certain reform measures to the Oklahoma Ethics Commission were justified, but others will vastly change the way lobbyists do their jobs.
As of July 1, lobbyists will not be able to spend more than $100 on a legislator per calendar year. However, state political groups may have unlimited fund-raising receptions and pacs will not have fund-raising limits.
The pair agreed that this year’s political filing did not bring any surprises. Both Dunlap and Hall predict a tied state senate again for the next legislative session and a probable republican majority in the house.
On the presidential election, Hall, a longtime Obama supporter beamed about “hope and change,” although both acknowledged that Oklahoma remains a solid “red” state that will go for Sen. John McCain.
As for vice presidential candidates, Dunlap mentioned that McCain should look for a running mate in a key swing state in the north east such as Pennsylvania and Ohio. He said another possibility is Florida Governor Charlie Crist.
Hall speculated that Obama could come out with a surprise veep with Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former President John F. Kennedy
With lots of laughs and always good-natured ribbing of each other and their OSAE friends, Hall and Dunlap encouraged their association friends to get involved and get their members involved in the political process.
Forming PACS, calling town meetings and participating in political campaigns helps the process. And following up with our elected leaders when they’re on the job is every citizen’s responsibility.
Informative and entertaining, Hall and Dunlap are always a big hit. Find out more at majorityplus.com.
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| Oklahoma Psychological Association Past President Dr. Stewart Beasley, Congresswoman Mary Fallin and OSAE Executive Director Richard L. Hess, CAE, at the luncheon. Dr. Beasley was scheduled to be on the morning education program, Effective Board Leadership. |
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| We had a great crowd of guests and members at the meeting hosted by the Renaissance Hotel. |
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| Danna Fowble broke out of her Boot Camp Drill Sergeant role just long enough to pose with the Congresswoman. Fowble was in character to promote our July (14 - 16) Annual Meeting, OSAE BOOT CAMP. |
April 4 , 2008, Cox Convention Center, Oklahoma City -“Thank you for all you do for Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Congresswoman Mary Fallin to OSAE members at the April Meeting. Before she arrived at the Cox Convention Center, Fallin’s morning had been filled with three media interviews and a speech. She had at least a few more speeches to give that afternoon during her Friday back home.
In the midst of her busy day, she said it was good to see friendly faces, and to be among friends at OSAE. She recalled that she first attended OSAE meetings early in her career and even before she was in politics, and was thankful to be invited back over the years to speak when she has served our state in the legislature, as Lt. Governor and now as a US Representative.
“You all represent the top associations in Oklahoma. I have a great appreciation for association executives. You are fine leaders,” she said.
She also praised OSAE members for using our association’s monthly meetings as a great networking tool, and for taking advantage of education sessions such as the one held that morning, Effective Board Leadership, led by Ed Kelsay, JD, CAE, ASAE Fellow.
Fallin has been in Washington for almost 16 months. As exciting and “not boring” as she said it is in D.C., she also didn’t hold back any punches when she shared with us how disheartening the political process really is. She said despite a clear mandate from the people during the 2006 election to “get things done” in Congress on important topics such as immigration, gas prices, the war in Iraq and Afghanistan and health care, nothing substantial has been accomplished.
She pointed to the controversial immigration law passed in Oklahoma, and to other states passing immigration reform, and says the resulting patchwork of laws from one state to the next should have been avoided had Congress been doing its job.
“We have had not one vote on immigration in 16 months, despite it being a top issue with the people who are concerned about national security, our workforce and broken borders,” she said.
Fallin said of the thousands of bills that have been presented on the House floor, only 188 pieces of legislation had been passed, and 74 of those bills were to name post offices, federal buildings and bridges.
Despite those frustrations about working on The Hill, Fallin remains optimistic about our nation’s future, and especially about Oklahoma’s future. She said this presidential election is very historic in nature with the three top candidates each distinctive – as the first female, the first African-American and a former POW all battling for our votes in November.
She encouraged everyone to be involved, and of course, to vote. She also joked that she wasn’t telling us how to vote, but that she would be voting for the Republican nominee.
“Voting is one of our greatest freedoms, and I sometimes think we take it for granted in our country.
“I believe we do live in the greatest nation in the world, but it is only great if we protect her and our democracy,” she said.
OSAE members gave Fallin a standing ovation at the close of her talk. Following the meeting, she stayed and visited with many of her friends, before having to rush off to her next speech.
OSAE thanks the Renaissance Hotel for hosting our April meeting. The next OSAE meeting is May 2, 2008, at the NCED Conference Center Hotel by Marriott in Norman.
March 7, 2008, Oklahoma Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City -Telling Oklahoma’s story through its people is how the Oklahoma Heritage Association fulfills its mission. And the same could be said about Oklahoma’s association industry – each association is only as good as each individual member, and every member has a story.
Chancellor Glenn Johnson’s talk to OSAE at our March meeting served as a refresher course of some of the highlights of our state’s great history. The inventors such as Sylvan Goldman, athletes such as Jim Thorpe and Shannon Miller, astronauts such as Tom Stafford and entertainers such as Will Rogers, Gene Autry and Vince Gill, along with many other famous Oklahomans, tell our state’s story to the rest of the world, and bring us notoriety.
Johnson spoke to OSAE in his capacity as chairman of the Oklahoma Heritage Association. He also serves as chief executive officer for the Oklahoma State System of Higher Education where he leads a state system comprised of 25 state colleges and universities and related entities and oversees a budget in excess of $1.4 billion.
Chancellor Johnson told the OSAE audience that most of his friendships with OSAE members began when he served in the state legislature. Indeed, some OSAE members still tend to address Johnson as Mr. Speaker, as he served as the powerful Speaker of the House from 1990 - 1996.
As chairman of the Oklahoma Heritage Association, Johnson has been closely involved in the museum’s recent move to its present location in the former Mid-
Continent Life Insurance building that opened in 1927. OHA acquired the building in 2001 through a gift from Mr. Edward L. Gaylord. In 2004, another gift
from Boone Pickens funded the renovation of the building into a museum that has preserved its beautiful art deco design and detail while incorporating 21st century interactive museum exhibits.
“We have combined the best of the old and the new,” Johnson said as he pointed out many of the features of the museum to the OSAE guests who were seated on the main floor of the gallery.
He invited OSAE members to use the facility.
“It gives us a chance to tell our story as a state,” he said. “As we ambitiously plan our next 100 years, those living now will do things to further our state’s great heritage.”
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| OSAE Pres. Stan Sweeney & Lt. Gov. Jari Askins |
February 1, 2008, Holiday Inn & Suites, Oklahoma City - "It’s good to be among friends." That’s what Lt. Governor Jari Askins told the audience at the February OSAE meeting. “I don’t get to see as many of you as I used to,” she said explaining that her second floor State Capitol office does not see as much activity as the fourth and fifth floors where she spent 12 years in the Legislature.
“As I pondered what I would say to you who are my friends, and for those who do not know me, I wanted to tell you about what I anticipate for the next legislative session,” she said.
Askins was elected as the first democratic female Lieutenant Governor in 2006. Previously she represented her home district of Duncan in the House of Representatives. She told OSAE she foresees five areas of emphasis for this legislative session: education, economic development, energy, environment and ethics. She briefly touched on each issue, and also took questions from the crowd that was made up of more than 100 OSAE members and guests, including many OSAE past presidents.She said educational issues range from expanding early childhood education and enhancing career tech centers to making higher education more accessible and affordable to Oklahomans. She said all of those issues are tied to economic development.
“We know industries look at us, but our state's high school drop out rate and low college graduation rate put us at a disadvantage as we recruit for those higher paying jobs,” she said.
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| H.J. Reed, government relations, Conoco Phillips, was honored by OSAE for his work on ethics rules reform. He is pictured with OSAE Liaison to the Oklahoma Ethics Commission, Pat Hall, CAE, ASAE Fellow. |
According to Askins, the state has had dramatic growth in two important industries – aerospace and biomedical research. Askins said that the aviation, avionics and aerospace industries are among the state's top employers, and the growing biomedical research park near the capitol was only a dream just a decade ago.
She said energy issues to be addressed over the next five months will advance more research and incentives into alternative fuels ranging from wind, water and biodiesel. Such efforts also will help our environment, she said.
Askins’ talk to OSAE came on the heels of the controversy at the capitol involving the resignation of the house speaker over his tax problems. That made for a timely comment regarding ethics.
“It is so important that as elected officials, we present ourselves as above reproach. Those who make mistakes are not bad people but this is a reminder that we put ourselves on the line. We don’t have to be better, but we have to follow the law better than anyone else,” she said.
She said ethics controls are in place to guide people to do the right thing. She said the Ethics Commission is not funded appropriately nor staffed adequately which affects all elected officials, lobbyists and others. She praised OSAE members for participating in and advocating for ethics rules reform.
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| OSAE Past Presidents were honored at the February luncheon. See story below. |
During the question portion of her talk, Askins answered inquiries from OSAE members on issues ranging from workers compensation, ethics reform and the biggest surprise of her first year in office.
Askins invited OSAE members to visit the first and second floors of the capitol, where she acknowledged Past President Paul Mathews as a valued volunteer tour guide who often brings visitors to her office. She said recent improvements to the visitors’ information area on the first floor and new furnishings to her office provide an image that Oklahomans will be proud of.
The Lieutenant Governor said the highlight of her first year in office was to be in Guthrie on November 16, 2007.
“I knew I would enjoy it, but I had no idea what an impact it would make on me to be present for our Centennial. I can't imagine being anywhere else,” she said. “It gave me so much hope for the next 100 years!”
The February OSAE meeting is always special. It's when we honor all of the presidents who have served our organization for the last 45 years. We are extraordinarily honored to have such an esteemed group of past presidents who represent the professional of association management with honor.
We thank them for their leadership, their mentoring, their support and their friendship.
Pictured. Back Row, Left, Jim Sullins, CAE, Matt Robison, CAE, 2007 - 2008 President Stan Sweeney, Executive Director Richard L. Hess, CAE, Jane Nelson, CAE,
Kris Sanders, Debra Bailey, CAE, Sam Blackstock, CAE, Ronn Cupp, Brian Foy. Front Row, Left, Bob Berry, CAE, Jm Hopper, Bill Moyer, CAE, Forrest Wilkins,
Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, Ben Blackstock, Paul Mathews, Ed Kelsay, CAE, Patrick J. Hall, CAE, ASAE Fellow
The Certified Association Executive (CAE) program is designed to elevate professional standards, enhance individual performance, and designate association professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of association management. Founded in 1960, the CAE program stands as a mark of excellence and has evolved to reflect what it takes to manage an association in today's challenging climate.
If you are interested in sitting for the CAE exam on May 2, 2008, a group study is being offered with your peers. The first meeting of the group will be Sunday, January 27, 2008 from 2:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m.
We will meet every other Sunday until the test date (we may meet more frequently as the test date gets closer) at the Oklahoma Engineering Center, 201 NE 27th St. (28th and Lincoln).
Find out more information about the CAE program and the exam on the ASAE website.
The application deadline to sit for the exam is February 8, 2008.
Please email Tawni Phelan, CMP, for more information and to RSVP for the study course.
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After more than a year in the works, the OSAE Centennial Clock project is now reality. The clock was dedicated during a November 8th ceremony held at 15th and Lincoln Blvd where the OSAE plaza is located. Many OSAE members, state officials, media and representatives from the Oklahoma Centennial Commission were on hand for the unveiling of the $25,000 clock which is one of about 100 clocks that are being dedicated all over the state. Thank you to the many OSAE members who contributed and took part in this important project to celebrate our state's 100th year! Contributing groups have their names listed on the base of the clock tower. Next on tap for OSAE is a landscape project around the new clock that is part of the corridor to the south side of our state capitol, said Kris Sanders, immediate past president and clock project coordinator.
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Craig Buford, CAE, enjoyed two tickets to the Oklahoma Centennial Gala as thanks for bringing in the most new members during our 2007 Centennial Star Memberhsip Drive. Craig, with the Community Bankers Association, is also OSAE’s vice president for membership. He bought in one new Professional Member and one new Affiliate Member. The drive garnered a total of 11 new OSAE members between July and November. Thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s membership drive and be sure to welcome our new members!
April 2, 2010, Reed Center, Midwest City - In an organization like OSAE, it's a given that most members are familiar with working with boards of directors. It's part of who we are in association management as we work closely with the boards who hire us to help operate their organizations.
remember being in the same ballroom almost two years ago to the day.
The rest is history as the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA franchise is wrapping up its second season at the Ford Center (and looking at a possible playoff bid) while Desjardins is overseeing bookings, renovations and capacity crowds at the Ford Center, hosting more groups and events at the Cox Center and helping to plan a new voter-approved convention center at a yet-to-be-determined location.