Why should I join NACE?  That is a question I hear constantly.  With everyone counting every penny spent in business, it is a very relevant question.  What is the point of joining NACE?

Here is why I joined NACE: my job required it.  Back in 2004, I was told that I had to join and that I would be going to these networking events as part of my job at a hotel.  Being the social catering manager, lord knows I worked enough crazy hours already, so the thought of another after-hours commitment was not exactly high on my list.  Boy, was I in for a surprise. 

Joining NACE was the best decision I was ever forced to make.  It has introduced me to some of the best and brightest event professionals in this area.  It has given me a passion for this career and has shaped me into a better professional.  It has given me contacts and connections that only strengthen my ability to do my job well.  Being a part of the board has taught me leadership skills that I know I will use for the rest of my life.  Going to the Experience! Conference each year has expanded my networking web nationwide.  I have put a lot into my involvement with NACE, and the benefits have returned back to me ten-fold.  NACE has literally become an extension of my work family.

And sometimes it’s nice to be a part of something that is bigger than yourself, which is what any volunteer association is about (and, yes, we are ALL volunteers in NACE).   Which brings me to our upcoming annual fundraiser to benefit the Interfaith Food Shuttle.  Every day, I feel blessed to not have to worry where my next meal is coming.  But for many in our immediate area, this is not the case. 

While we are planning and pulling off extravagant events every weekend, some children are only eating over the weekend because of the backpack they have brought home from school that is part of the Interfaith Food Shuttle’s Backpack Buddies program.  The Food Shuttle’s slogan is “Hunger is Unacceptable” and I am honored each year to be a part of an event that supports that slogan.  Plus, in typical NACE fashion, it will be a great celebration only made possible by the generous donations of our fellow NACE members.  I encourage you to head over to www.trianglenace.com and get a ticket.  The worst that could happen is that you’ll meet a couple of new people and have a really great time.

See you there!!

Jaclyn Parks

The Food Shuttle Soiree - Hosted by Triangle NACE

Please join us on Tuesday, September 13th at 6:00pm at Bay 7 at the American Tobacco Campus in Durham for a special fundraiser to benefit the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.  It will be a memorable evening complete with wonderful food from some of the Triangle's best caterers, a big band performance, a delicious dessert buffet, a silent auction and raffle, and gorgeous decor provided by some of the leading floral, rental, lighting, and furniture professionals.  All proceeds from sponsorships, silent auction, and raffle go to benefit the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle.  We hope to see you there!

Suggested Attire: WHITE!

Food Shuttle Soiree Menu

The Catering Company

Passed Hors D'Oeuvres: Conch Fritters with Spicy Remoulade, Zucchini Pancakes with Lemon Aioli, and Dates stuffed with Chorizo and Chimichurri Sauce

Small Plate: Grilled Brined Salmon with Chinese Eggplant and Fennel Cucumber Relish

Parizade

Bourbon-Mustard Smoked Pork Tenderloin with Peanut BBQ Sauce and Apple Fennel Salad

Inter-Faith Food Shuttle - Catering With A Cause

Fall Tomato Soup with Roasted Pepper Cream and Corn Biscotti

Catering Works

Tamari Glazed Teriyaka Flank Steak with Edamame Fried Rice

Centerplate

Hors D'Oeuvres: BBQ Stuffed Hush Puppy with BBQ Gastrique Infuser

Small Plate: Waffles with Fried Chicken and Maple Cream Gravy and Pecan Butter

Sweet Memories

Assorted Sweets In Our Theme Of White

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Happy Fall!

You know what that means….the Fall Membership Campaign is here!!!  The campaign doesn't start officially until October 1st, but here is a sneak peek:

• Discount: $100 off of a new membership (new members or members who have been expired for a year or more). Code: FALL2011
• The $50 reinstatement fee will be waived for cancelled members who expired within the past year (November 2010 – September 2011) and choose to renew during the campaign. No code required – they must contact NACE Headquarters for renewal invoice. Cancelled members cannot renew online.

Please contact Membership Chair Neil Boyd for more information!