conference.
The GFA took the lead in organizing the MPI luncheon program and worked closely with Levy Restaurants who provides foodservice for the GWCC. MPI members are the decision makers for future corporate meetings, conferences and convention locations. The luncheon was an opportunity for Atlanta to shine and our light was bright on Tuesday!
Luncheon attendees were treated to a regional, fresh and seasonal menu thanks to the generosity of the many Georgia and regional producers who said YES to donating their phenomenal products to the 1,200 person event. Tom Frennea with PFG Milton and Cheryl Wilson with Destiny Produce coordinated most of the donations and I am most grateful for their support. Chef Billy Skiber of Levy Restaurants is a true culinary talent and prepared a spectacular meal enjoyed by all.
The program topic was Atlanta, A Pioneer City in Sustainability. Bill Bolling, Executive Director of the Atlanta Community Food Bank and pioneer in Atlanta's sustainability, spoke about Atlanta's Table and the importance of donating food within the parameters of the Federal Good Samaritan Food Act. Laura Turner Seydel, Zero Waste Zone ~ Downtown Atlanta Honorary Chair, spoke about the ZWZ and the other organizations started in Atlanta making a national difference.As the luncheon master of ceremonies, I emphasized the Power of YES
when it comes to demanding meetings and events are planned with a sustainable foundation. Once new standards and best practices are set, sustainable meeting planning will be the new way doing business. For my closing remarks I emphasized these individuals have the power to change our industry with their demands and decisions and I challenged them to make a difference.
Wow ~ these are exciting times! Stayed tuned as much more is to come ...
