MTIA 2018 Summer Conference Bon Appétit Customer Our Recipe for Future Success Ask any successful restaurant how they succeed, and they will tell you it s all about the customer. They make sure the menu features some old favorites and a couple of new choices. They anticipate their customers needs and provide excellent service. They exceed customer expectations, and they are rewarded with customer loyalty. Our future depends on the same dynamic making sure our customers get the bandwidth and advanced services that meet their needs, whether they are gamers, movie buffs, farmers or small business owners. Make plans now to join your industry colleagues at the 2018 Summer Conference of the Missouri Telecommuncations Industry Association, and discover new ways to succeed in our industry. Our annual gathering brings together telecom professionals from around the state for four days of networking, discussion and business planning, all set in Branson, Missouri - one of America s most family-friendly summer destinations. July 29 - August 1, 2018 Hilton Branson Hotel & Convention Center Branson, MO Our conference is at the Hilton Branson Convention Center located adjacent to the Branson Landing entertainment and shopping district.
Sunday, July 29 Welcome Reception / Registration Miniature Golf 4:00-6:00 p.m. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, July 30 Registration 7:30 a.m - 4:00 p.m. MTIA Golf Classic 8:00 a.m. Wonders of Wildlife Museum Tour 8:30 a.m. MTIA Shooting Tournament 9:00 a.m. Industry Partners Showcase 4:30-6:30 p.m. Evening Open for Vendor Meetings, Dining & Networking Tuesday, July 31 Registration Continental Breakfast General Session 7:30-11:30 a.m. 7:30 a.m. 8:15 a.m. Our Featured Entree: Telecom s Dynamic Agenda on Capitol Hill and the FCC Today s Special: A Customer Issues Update from NECA What s on the Menu for Rural Missouri? A Roundtable Discussion with the USDA Try Something New: How Does Wireless Fit into Your Strategy? 2018 Menu at a Glance Luncheon & Keynote Speaker Noon - 2:00 p.m. The Guest Encounter: Better Service, Better Performance, Better Results Reception & Dinner Wednesday, August 1 Member Breakfast 6:30-9:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. A Recipe for Success: State Partnerships that Support Private-Sector Broadband Buildout MTIA Annual Business Meeting 9:30 a.m. Conference Adjourns
Sunday, July 29 4:00-6:00 p.m. Welcome Reception & Registration North Concourse Foyer (near escalators) 6:30-7:30 p.m. Miniature Golf Pirate s Cove Join your friends from Mark Twain Rural Telephone Company for an evening of fun but sure-to-be competitive miniature golf. Prizes awarded --- laughs guaranteed. Monday, July 30 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Registration North Concourse Foyer 8:00 a.m. MTIA Golf Classic Branson Hills Golf Club Branson Hills Golf Club is a tribute course honoring legendary Missouri golfers. Natural rock outcroppings, waterfalls, creeks and wooded areas are incorporated into its design features. The course was designed by Chuck Smith with design consultant and PGA Professional, Bobby Clampett. It s a real treat to play, and our four-person scramble format will make for an enjoyable day on the links. Be sure to register in advance on the attached form. 8:30 a.m. Johnny Morris Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium 9:00 a.m. MTIA Shooting Tournament Ozark Shooters Complex This year s event features an all-day shoot (including sporting clays, trap, skeet, etc.). The tournament venue is located 11 miles north of Branson on Highway 65. Prizes will be awarded. Shooters are asked to meet in the Hilton lobby at 8:00 a.m. to arrange transportation to the range. Lunch is included. Be sure to register in advance on the registration form. Gun rental is not included in the tournament fee. 1:00 p.m. 19th Hole Awards Presentation & Lunch Branson Hills Golf Club 4:30-6:30 p.m. Industry Partners Showcase & Reception Taneycomo A Join your industry colleagues for a relaxing and enjoyable opportunity for drinks & delicious hors d oeuvres while experiencing the latest in telecommunications products, services, and expertise. Our early evening event will allow plenty of time for vendor meetings, dinner and networking after the Showcase. Be sure to stay until the conclusion of our show those present will be eligible to win two, $250 VISA gift cards, perfect for a shopping trip to Branson Landing. 6:30 p.m. Evening Open for Vendor Meetings, Dining & Networking This fun Guest-tivity will feature a motor coach trip to Springfield to tour the brand-new wildlife museum that has been voted as the #1 Best New Attraction in America. You ll step into an awe-inspiring diversity of wildlife, habitats and climates from around the world. Tour will include transportation and lunch.
Tuesday, July 31 7:30-11:30 a.m. Registration North Concourse Foyer (near escalators) Networking Break 7:30 a.m. Continental Breakfast North Concourse Foyer 8:15 a.m. General Session Cooper Creek Opening Ceremony: National Anthem 8:30 a.m. Our Featured Entrée: Telecom s Dynamic Agenda on Capitol Hill & the FCC Shirley Bloomfield, Chief Executive Officer NTCA The Rural Broadband Association What a year it has been, and we re only half-way through 2018! With a flurry of recent activity including the FCC order making up the USF budget shortfall, the CAF II auctions, a new RUS broadband funding program, and more work on the future of building high-cost networks, telecom s Washington D.C. menu is certainly full. Be sure to join this recognized industry leader for an up-to-the-minute look at all the issues on our plate this year. 9:15 a.m. Today s Special: A Customer Issues Update from NECA Bob Gnapp, Director, Member Training & Network Analysis National Exchange Carrier Association (NECA) The customer experience drives everything we do. If the customer isn t happy, we all pay the price. But the menu of customer issues is always changing, and we have to be ready for the next course. Be sure to join this lively and engaging discussion of two hot customer topics: mitigating unwanted calls and managing rural call completion issues. 10:30 11:15 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. noon Breakout Sessions (Each Session Repeats) What s on the Menu for Rural Missouri? A Roundtable Discussion with the USDA Jeff Case, State Director for Rural Development United States Department of Agriculture Compton Ferry Strengthening the economy of rural communities is key to the future development of Missouri. Infrastructure, innovation, and new initiatives are needed to succeed. Come join Missouri s new state USDA director for an informal and informative discussion of how the agency can partner with private sector telecom carriers. Try Something New: How Does Wireless Fit into Your Strategy? Short Creek 4 Dan Carter, Senior Consultant, Finley Engineering More broadband providers are finding wireless can play an important role in their build-out strategy. Does that option fit into your plans? Learn about some real-world options and proven results that could lead to new strategies to consider.
Tuesday, July 31 (continued) Noon - 2:00 p.m. Member Luncheon and Keynote Taneycomo B The Guest Encounter: Better Service, Better Performance, Better Results Laurie Guest, CSP Entrepreneur, Author, Motivational Keynote Speaker What happens when a guest (customer or client) encounters your company? Many business owners and managers feel they already have customer service under control, and think additional training is not an issue. But, Laurie s team of secret shoppers have found that every encounter makes an impression. Each encounter holds the power to nurture your relationship or tear it down, build your business or bruise it. Be sure to attend this humorous and insightful presentation on delivering an excellent customer experience. 2:30-3:30 p.m. MTIA Board of Directors Meeting Compton Ferry 6:30-9:00 p.m. Reception & Dinner Tanneycomo B Join us for an evening of great food and refreshments, combined with a high-energy show. Marc Rubben combines his unique stand-up comedy with onstage audience participation and expert ventriloquism, with the help of his colorful cast of characters. Marc is a featured entertainer on the Carnival Cruise lines and at comedy clubs around the country. This evening, Marc brings his warm and witty show to Branson just for us. Wednesday, August 1 7:30 a.m. Member Breakfast Cooper Creek 8:30 a.m. A Recipe for Success: State Partnerships that Support Private-Sector Broadband Buildout Rob Dixon, Director Missouri Department of Economic Development Broadband is recognized as an essential building-block of Missouri s robust economic development plan. But sparse populations and tough terrains can be a challenge in serving rural communities. Discover what Missouri s top economic development official believes the state can do to partner with private-sector providers to support the deployment of broadband networks in rural markets. 9:30 a.m. MTIA Annual Business Meeting Cooper Creek Chairman s Address Jim Lyon, Executive Vice President & General Manager Mark Twain Rural Telephone Company President s Report Ric Telthorst, President & CEO Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association Report of Nominating Committee & Election of Directors Presentation of Conference Grand Prize Conference Adjourns
Conference Information Conference Registration Deadline: July 6, 2018 The conference registration fee includes admittance to all sessions, group meals, and receptions. The full registration fee is required for each registrant, spouse, child or guest. Separate charges are assessed only for golf, shooting tournament, and the Guest-ivity Wonders of Wildlife Museum. Payment must accompany the registration form and be received by July 6 to receive the pre-registration discount of $50. MTIA now accepts credit cards. Online registration is available online at www.mtia.org. All attendees are required to register. Branson Shows & Attractions Nestled in the scenic Ozark mountains, Branson is the center for a wide variety of shows and attractions featuring music, comedy, magic, and big-name performers. For a complete look at what Branson has to offer, visit Explore Branson online. Cancellation Policy Refundable cancellations may be made until Friday, July 6, 2018. Attire Business casual is appropriate for all conference sessions and functions. Business attire is appropriate for the Annual Member Banquet. Note If any participant has a special need addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is requested that each such participant notify MTIA of this need at least one week before.
Lodging Deadline: Room Block closes June 29, 2018 Our conference will be held in the heart of historic downtown Branson, in the sleek 12-story tower of the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. The AAA Four Diamond Branson hotel is attached to the Convention Center, and is right across the street from the vibrant waterfront entertainment district - Branson Landing. Enjoy modern yet rustic décor and stunning views of Lake Taneycomo, and the Ozark Mountains from the comfort of the hotel s sophisticated guest accommodations. Lodging reservations can be made by calling 866-442-0959, and asking for the Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association 2018 Room Block. Our conference rate is $169 for a Deluxe Room. We encourage you to book through our room block, so that we can continue to provide the best rates to all our conference attendees. Please make your reservations promptly - our room block closes June 29. Standard check-in time is 4:00 p.m. Guests arriving prior to 4:00 p.m. will be roomed as soon as possible. Standard check-out time is 11:00 a.m. You may book your room online using the links available on the MTIA website or by clicking here. To discover all that the Hilton Branson Hotel & Convention Center has to offer, please visit the hotel online at: Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel 200 East Main Street, Branson, Missouri 65616 Conference Rate: $169 for a Deluxe Room. Room Block Deadline: June 29, 2018 Hotel Phone: 417-336-5400 Check-In: 4:00 p.m. Check-Out: 11:00 a.m.
Sponsorship Opportunities As a sponsor of the 2018 MTIA Summer Conference, you can raise brand awareness, create lasting business connections, and play a significant role in our mutual success. Event Sponsors Our Event Sponsors are featured at a specific conference meal or reception, beverage break, or sporting event. Sponsorships include customized signage, including your corporate logo, prominently displayed at each event and featured at the Showcase. MTIA Supporter Our MTIA Supporter sponsorships (at the Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels) help us to underwrite our conference speakers, entertainment, and attendance prizes. We appreciate your continued support as we work to collectively create value for Missouri s telecom providers. Ric Telthorst, MTIA President MTIA Supporter o Platinum $600 o Gold $400 o Silver $200 o Bronze $100 o o Event Sponsorships Monday Trap Shooting Luncheon & Prizes - $600 (1 sponsor at $600 or 3 sponsors at $200 each) Monday Evening Industry Partners Showcase and Reception - $2000 (Includes complimentary conference registration) o Tuesday Morning Continental Breakfast - $1500 o Tuesday Morning Beverage Break - $750 o Tuesday Evening Reception - $2000 (Includes complimentary conference registration) o Wednesday Member Breakfast - $1500 Please choose a payment option. o Check o Credit Card o Invoice Us Amount: $ Company: Contact: Credit Card # Expiration Date CVC# Signature: Contributions to the Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Please make checks payable to Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association and mail this form to: Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association (MTIA) P.O. Box 785 Jefferson City, MO 65102 Fax: 573-634-5792 Email: kari@mtia.org
Industry Partners Showcase and Reception Monday, July 30 4:30-6:30 p.m. Taneycomo A Branson Convention Center We appreciate your continued support of MTIA and look forward to seeing all of our industry colleagues at the Hilton Branson Convention Center & Hotel in Branson July 29 August 1, 2018. We have an exceptional slate of speakers and events scheduled for our gathering, which is annually one of the top regional industry events of the year. We have planned a relaxing reception, with drinks and hors d oeuvres, during our Industry Partners Showcase to be held Monday evening following a great day of group networking events. Our early evening gathering will allow plenty of time for vendor meetings, dinner and networking after the Showcase. Those telecom members visiting all of our vendors, and staying until the conclusion of the Showcase, will be eligible to win two, $250 VISA gift cards, perfect for a shopping trip to Branson Landing. The Showcase provides an excellent opportunity to promote your products and services to a broad and diverse group of key Missouri industry decision-makers. It s an event designed to build relationships, create good times and showcase your business. A $300 fee is charged to those member companies wishing to provide tabletop displays of product information, small equipment and other materials. There are 30 exhibit booths available this year on a first-reserved basis. (Please note that we do not allow booths to be shared by two or more exhibitors). In order to exhibit, you must be preregistered for the Summer Conference. Please complete the Advance Registration Form, along with registration for your tabletop display, and submit with your payment. Exhibitors set-up times will be from 1:00-4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2018. Showcase Reservation Information All booths will be 8 by 10 and of uniform design, with a 8 high back panel. Included with the reservation fee: a skirted 8 table with a uniform printed 9 x 44 identification sign, 2 chairs, and a wastebasket. NOTE: No sharing of booth space is allowed. For those who request a booth, Page & Brown Convention Services will be sending you an order form the first week of July for any additional tables, booth carpeting, electric service, and exhibit material handling service forms. Call Page & Brown Convention Services directly at 573-348-5176 to discuss advance shipping of your equipment and/or displays. Page and Brown Convention Services 744 Chapel Drive Osage Beach, MO 65065 Register online or return this registration form with payment information by July 6, 2018, Membership Status o MTIA Member (Booth Cost $300, plus the member meeting registration fee.) o Non-Member (Booth Cost $400, plus the non-member meeting registration fee.) Payment option: o Check o Credit Card o Invoice Us Credit Card # Exp. CVC# Signature: Company Name: (Show Company name as you wish it to appear on your exhibit sign provided by MTIA.) Contact Person Phone Email Address City State Zip Please check which best describes your company: o Billing Software o Network Electronics Manufacturer o Powering o Distributor o Outside Plant Manufacturer o Consulting/Engineering o Other List top two competitors: (1) (2) If paying by check, please make payable to Missouri Telecommunications Industriy Association and mail this form to: Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association (MTIA) P.O. Box 785 Jefferson City, MO 65102 Fax: 573-634-5792 Email: kari@mtia.org
MTIA Summer Conference Advance Registration Form July 29 - August 1, 2018 Hilton Branson Convention Center and Hotel INSTRUCTIONS 1. Register each attendee, spouse & child. (Package registration increases to an additional $50.00 per registrant after July 6, 2018. Make additional copies of this form as necessary.) 2. Indicate fees due for activities each person plans to attend. 3. Complete golf tournament registration form as appropriate. 4. Return registration and full payment prior to July 6, 2018, to: Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association (MTIA) P.O. Box 785 Jefferson City, MO 65102 Fax: 573-634-5792 Email: kari@mtia.org Company / Contact Person Phone Email Address City State Zip Please type or print names as you wish them to appear on badges. 1) Name City o Member Registration $375 o Non-Member Registration $500 o Mini-Golf $ 10 o Spouse/Guest Registration $240 o Youth Registration (16 & under) $ 60 o Golf Tournament $125 o Shooting Tournament $145 o Guest-tivity Wonders of Wildlife $ 65 Total $ 2) Name City o Member Registration $375 o Non-Member Registration $500 o Mini-Golf $ 10 o Spouse/Guest Registration $240 o Youth Registration (16 & under) $ 60 o Golf Tournament $125 o Shooting Tournament $145 o Guest-tivity Wonders of Wildlife $ 65 Total $ 3) Name City o Member Registration $375 o Non-Member Registration $500 o Mini-Golf $ 10 o Spouse/Guest Registration $240 o Youth Registration (16 & under) $ 60 o Golf Tournament $125 o Shooting Tournament $145 o Guest-tivity Wonders of Wildlife $ 65 Total $ 4) Name City o Member Registration $375 o Non-Member Registration $500 o Mini-Golf $ 10 o Spouse/Guest Registration $240 o Youth Registration (16 & under) $ 60 o Golf Tournament $125 o Shooting Tournament $145 Notes: Youth Registration is considered 16 and under. This fee includes receptions & annual banquet only. If paying by check, make payable to: Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association (MTIA). Contributions to the Missouri Telecommunications Industry Association are not deductible as charitable contributions. Payment options: o Check o Credit Card Credit Card # Exp. CVC# Signature: o Guest-tivity Wonders of Wildlife $ 65 Total $ Grand Total $
Golf Tournament Registration Form MTIA Annual Golf Tournament Monday, July 30, 2018 Branson Hills Golf Club 100 North Payne Stewart Drive Branson, Missouri 65616 Phone: 417-337-2963 (x 103) Tournament Coordinator: Jay Mitchell, Seneca Telephone Company Branson Hills Golf Club is a tribute course honoring legendary Missouri golfers. Natural rock outcroppings, waterfalls, creeks and wooded areas are incorporated into its design features. The course was designed by Chuck Smith with design consultant and PGA Professional, Bobby Clampett. It s a real treat to play, and our four-person scramble format will make for an enjoyable day on the links. The tournament will be a four-person scramble played from a shotgun start. Golfers should be at the course by 7:30 a.m. Please note that breakfast is not available at the course prior to the start of the tournament. The entry fee includes greens fee, cart rental and prizes. The 19th Hole Awards Reception & Lunch will be held at the Branson Hills Golf Club following the tournament. Deadline for registration and payment is July 6, 2018, and cancellations received after this date cannot be refunded. To enter, complete this entry form and register for the golf tournament on the Advance Registration Form. Include the $125 per person entry fee with your conference registration fee. In order to balance teams as evenly as possible, please provide the handicap or average score for each player. A list of pairings will be available on Sunday evening at the MTIA registration desk.