People 9-1-1999

> Meetings & Conventions: People September 1999
September 1999
People

EDITED BY AMY DREW TEITLER

Sadie Rogers is the manager of conferences and meetings for the Georgia Department of Human Resources in Atlanta. Immediate past president of the Society of Government Meeting Professionals, Rogers currently serves on its board of directors.

What is your idea of a great vacation?
Somewhere in the Southwest. I think I must have left something there years ago in an earlier life. Once I was in Arizona and got the chance to spend some time in the company of an archaeologist, and I was really awed by the experience.

Who would be your dream speaker?
I'd like the president to talk to my groups face to face. I'm fascinated by his ability to blend politics and the human touch. He could definitely hold an audience.

What is the toughest aspect of being a government planner?
The government bosses you plan for never have a clue what it takes to make a meeting happen. They always say, "It only takes one phone call."

What advice would you give to a new planner?
Hang out with those in the know, even if you just sit and watch them work. They will become your network and your best sources of training. The suppliers will love you because they won't have to make 2,000 phone calls.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
I think putting a meeting together is like doing a puzzle. I like being able to put all the pieces together, having it look good and making people happy at the same time. And the fact that you get to meet so many great people people you may never meet again.

Do you have any pets?
I have two adopted cats. Church came first, and then I got Deacon. Two hours after they met, they were best friends and have been ever since.

CHERYL-ANNE STURKEN

PLANNERS

MANTLE NEW MANAGEMENT HIRE AT CONFERON
Twinsburg, Ohio-based Conferon, an independent meeting-planning firm, has hired Elizabeth Mantle as manager of Conferon Express. She will be based at the company's headquarters. Mantle has 10 years of experience and most recently served as director of sales for the Radisson Cleveland Airport Hotel.

RAPHEL JOINS TEAM AT P.W. FEATS INC.
David Raphel has joined Baltimore-based event marketing company P.W. Feats Inc. as shop manager, responsible for overseeing production and providing technical direction for events. Raphel has 25 years of experience. Previously, he ran his own professional scene shop, Lynx Productions, in the New York City area.

SUPPLIERS

If you would like notice of a career move considered for inclusion in this column, contact Amy Drew Teitler, Senior Editor, M&C, 500 Plaza Dr., Secaucus, N.J. 07094; fax: (201) 319-1796; e-mail: [email protected].