The Fall Classic Bocce Tournament was tremendous success at Barnsley Resort. Kudos to our host, Ginny Izydore, and her amazing team who made sure all the details for this outdoor event were picture-perfect, including the fabulous weather.

Jesus Garcia, International Sales Manager with the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, extends a thank you to MPI Georgia “for lively imagination and arduous work allowing all participants to have a great time in a beautiful and safe setting.” His team, Boccesaurus Rex, took first place in the tournament. Katie Nunn (Mighty Auto Parts), Claire Simmons (Hotel Indigo Chattanooga Downtown), and Philip Gamon (ACVB) were his fierce partners on the court. After the event, Claire shared: “I didn’t realize how much I’d missed in-person industry events!  Safety precautions were on point. The Fall Classic is an event I look forward to every year, and it was wonderful seeing so many familiar faces and also making new friends.”

Laura Snyder (Crowe Horwath) and Paige Nathan (Food with Purpose) claimed second place amongst the competitive field. Speaking of food, Jeff Whitney (Event Transportation Atlanta), made time in between his tournament duties to check-out the barbeque food truck. Everyone was impressed with the large variety of delicious meats and sides that were served from the mobile kitchen. The participants raved about Barnsley Resort’s warm hospitality and the variety of outdoor event spaces. The Ruins were an ideal setting for the silent auction and interactive games, and Bocce was played in the Pavilion. Although cozy, Jeff said, the layout allowed for social distancing and safe gameplay.

Be on the lookout for more news from the Fall Classic. We’ll be sure to let you know when the pictures from Photosynthesis Studio are posted. The virtual auction raised nearly $4,000 to benefit future educational programs and initiatives.

Thank you to our sponsors, participants, and the planning team for your role in delivering a fun, safe, and responsible event that was clearly enjoyed by all. 

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	Big Score		Barnsley Resort		2019 Winning Team		Southern Hospitality

This is the 12^th year MPI Georgia is holding this popular event and we are thrilled to experience the beautiful outdoors at Barnsley Resort. GET READY for the Fall Classic on Monday, November 9. It's not too early to practice, because there are several competitive teams with their eyes on the prize. Barnsley Resort is known for its Southern traditions in a storybook setting. This North Georgia resort is the ultimate retreat to unplug and find balance. Come experience our outdoor lifestyle, nature, and rich Southern hospitality dating back to the 1880's. 

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Playing it Safe with MPI Georgia- COVID-19 Precautions and Guidelines
Rest assured, social distancing measures and preventative actions for your personal welfare and safety are of paramount importance. Masks will be required in dedicated areas and we will abide by the CDC guidelines in conjunction with Barnsley Resort's health and sanitation program. 

In order to hold a safe and first-class outdoor event, we have prepared a document, COVID-19 Procedures and Guidelines, to ensure the safety and well-being of participants at the Fall Classic Bocce Tournament. In addition to following general protocols issued by local authorities; we will also follow guidelines issued by MPI Global, Barnsley Resort, and Casey Corporate Transportation. 

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Sponsor Interaction		Beats from Amp'd Entertainment		Silent Auction Preview		2018 Winning Team

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2020 Fall Classic Registration Rates: 
Planners play for FREE!
MPI Georgia Member: $50
MPI Georgia Non-Member: $65

Registration Notes: 
- Planners please complete the registration form and use the promo code PLANNER at checkout
- Rates apply for all attendees even if you do not participate in the tournament
- Registration will close on Thursday, November 5th at 5:00 PM

Barnsley Resort Fall Classic Special Offer:
$179 room rate at The Inn and reduced resort fee of $30. Click here for reservations.

MPI Georgia Chapter Attendance Policy:
All Essential Level members or non-members are limited to no more than two events in one fiscal year and must pay the Essential Level/Non-member rate. MPI Preferred or Premier Level members are welcome to attend all chapter events at the Member Price. 

Cancellations: If you need to cancel your registration a full refund will be granted if cancellation is received in writing before 5:00 PM on Thursday, November 5th. After that time there will be no refunds. Please send cancellation notice to info@mpigeorgia.org. Additionally, registration fees may not be applied or transferred to future events.

Substitutions: If you have registered but are unable to attend the meeting, you may substitute another employee from your company at no additional charge.

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Schedule of Events: 

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM	Registration, Coffee Chats, and Silent Auction Preview
11:00 AM - 2:30 PM	Bocce Tournament and Lawn Games
11:00 AM - 2:30 PM	Beats, Eats, and Liquid Treats in a Designated Area
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM	Awards, Announcements, and Silent Auction Presentation

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Shuttle Bus Information:
Casey Corporate Transportation is providing a shuttle bus to/from the event. Transportation and parking from Cobb Galleria Centre are complimentary. If you would like to take the shuttle, please select this option on the registration page. The bus departs at 9:00 AM sharp to the resort and the return trip departs at 3:00 PM. 

Upon arrival, press parking gate button to take a ticket out of the machine. Meet the bus at the porte-cochere. Complimentary parking passes will be distributed on the bus to enter into the machine upon leaving. 

Parking Location: 
Cobb Galleria Centre
Two Galleria Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30339
Click here for Driving Directions

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Virtual Silent Auction:


Did you know?  All members can participate this year - even if you're unable to attend. Be a part of the AUCTION ACTION and join onyour phone or computer. You don't want to miss all of the exciting gifts, trips, and experiences. For the adventurer, consider bidding on the Andretti Speedway package. If you're more inclined for some R&R, you can bid on a beach resort getaway and several hotel gift certificates.

How do I participate?  Click here to access the virtual auction.

• View the auction items by clicking the red AUCTION button on the right side of the screen.
• Select the REGISTER TO BID button at the top of the page.
• Register with your contact and credit card information to pre-authorize secured, easy check out and payment.
• You will receive a verification email from BETTERUNITE to get started.
• View the auction items and start the bidding process.
• Notes:
• There is also an option to make a donation.
• Your credit card is not automatically charged.
• Payments will be processed by the auction committee through Better Unite and WePay at the close of the auction.
• Guests are not able to make any purchases without a card on file.

Frequently Asked Questions: 

When does the auction start and end? The auction officially opens on Tuesday, November 3 at 12:00 PM. The auction closes on the day of the event, Monday, November 9, at 2:00 PM. 

How will I know if I am outbid? You will, receive a text message from BETTERUNITE providing a link to view the latest information. You can then increase your bid. There is also an option to enter your best offer.

 How will I know if I win? Winners will be announced on the day of the event at 2:30 PM during the closing remarks. Additionally, you will receive an Auction Purchase acknowledgement via email.

Who do I contact with questions? Grier Donald of Spirited Event Group is our Virtual Auction chairperson. You may reach her at grier@spiritedeventgroup.com or 205-482-2827.

What if I need assistance on the day of the event? Contact Grier Donald.

How will I receive my item if I am not present? The chapter administrator will contact you to make arrangements.     

Thank you Active Production and Design for sponsoring this year's Virtual Silent Auction. We are most appreciative of your generous support throughout the years. What's new with Active Production and Design? Click here for fantastic program reel. 

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					Something for Everyone:  If you are not familiar with the world's easiest lawn game, check out the brief instructional video. Bocce is described as a combination of skee-ball, bowling, and shuffle board.
					Why should I Participate?? Because it’s an unique, casual, and fun opportunity to network with fellow members, entertain clients, and meet potential new clients outside of an office setting. Plus, it’s a great gathering of meeting professionals for a day of friendly competition while enjoying the outdoors.
					Planners play for FREE: Thanks to our amazing sponsors, all meeting planners receive complimentary registration. We hope you’ll join us for this fun outing with fabulous prizes and a bit of friendly competition. To take advantage of this amazing opportunity, please use the promotional code PLANNER when prompted on the registration page.
					Can I attend and not play bocce? Yes, we encourage members to check out the action and cheer on competitors. All are welcome to attend the event even if you do not intend to play. There will be plenty of activities, great music, and ample time to visit with event sponsors, chapter members, and guests. Please note, you will still have to register as an attendee.
					Sponsorship Opportunities: The Fall Classic provides some of the most diverse and engaging sponsorship opportunities – a great opportunity to make a big impact. Regina Robuck can provide all the details and help you identify the sponsorship option that’s best for your organization. Contact Regina at 404.760.2887 or send an email.
					Silent Auction Donations:  Would you like to donate an auction item for the Fall Classic? Our members always get excited with gift certificates and goodie bags both large and small. Last year we had generous donations ranging from SEC Championship tickets to weekend getaways. If you would like to donate to our 2020 Silent Auction, please fill out this form.

 

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The 2019 Fall Classic was a record-breaker on and off the course:

• Highest Bocce attendance in tournament history 
• Largest donation to our philanthropic partner, Covenant House. Your contributions enhance quality of care - ensuring that safe, mission-focused, and purpose-driven services and facilities are offered to disadvantaged youth. 
• Most successful chapter fundraiser.
• And, last but not least, tremendous involvement from tournament sponsors. We could not do this without you. 

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Thank You to Our Event Sponsors:

		Venue
Beverage Cart		Registration Area		Silent Auction
Bocce Court		Bocce Court		Bocce Court & Mobile App
DJ/Music		Photography		Registration Software
Transportation		Weather		Parking
Hand Sanitizer		Bocce Ball Equipment		Mini Golf Game
Photo Booth		360 Booth		Coffee Cart
Far Out Galaxy

Thank You to Our Annual Sponsors:
Platinum		Gold
In-Kind Audio Visual		In-Kind Photography

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