The impetus for establishing a SGMP Chapter in the Old North State started in January 1992. Myra Couch, Raleigh CVB; Diane Cullipher, NC Division of Vocational Rehabilitation; and Jan Hulahan, Sheraton Crabtree were instrumental in getting a group together. After several months, an organizational meeting was held in June and a membership committee was established. Three more organizational meetings were held and the criterion was achieved. SGMP North Carolina was born on March 11, 1993. The original membership consisted of 46 planners and 45 suppliers.

Monthly meetings are held, with the exception of July and August. Days of the meetings vary. Meetings are usually held in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Each meeting consists of a business session and program and networking session. In March, the Chapter holds an educational conference and tradeshow. The Board is installed in May. December features a holiday party and silent auction. Meetings have been held in other parts of the state to learn about various hotels and attractions. Several FAM trips for planners are sponsored by the area hotels and CVB, following the day after the meeting.

The Chapter’s silent auction is the main fundraiser, with proceeds going to scholarships for members to attend the National Education Conference and to pay speakers and presenters at the Chapter’s Annual Education Conference. Donations are also made to the Salvation Army and Toys for Tots.

SGMP North Carolina publishes a monthly newsletter entitled Dogwood Digest. The original name o of the newsletter wasNews & Views. Recently, it has become an on-line publication with members receiving it via a listserv. The reduction in printing and postage costs allows for more text and pictures. Current membership stands at 58 members.

North Carolina government has faced severe budgetary constraints over the past few years. This adversely affected the Chapter’s ability to recruit government members and made it difficult for government planners to travel to meetings and conferences. Fortunately, many state restrictions were lifted in 2002, and SGMP North Carolina has, again, been increasing its government meeting planner membership. This will allow the Chapter to become more vibrant and serve the members’ needs in the future.