The Official ReCap: 2011 Annual Dinner "A Swanky Affair"
Friday, April 08, 2011
Our office celebrated its 27th Anniversary at the 2011 GCEGC Annual Dinner held at Ivy Tech Community College's conference center. The event/dinner featured special guest speaker, Bill Rancic (Season One winner of The Apprentice). The GCEGC team were particularly thrilled to have him speak this year due to his experience and passion for entrepreneurship, his three books, and background in working with possible future presidential candidate, Donald Trump…… (and perhaps his marriage to the famous Giuliana Rancic, with whom he stars in a reality TV series titled, Giuliana & Bill).
The evening's theme was "A Swanky Affair," which was enhanced by silver and black balloons (check out the photos by IWU student Marya Sherwin), silver confetti, flowers by Kelly's Flowers & Gifts, plus our local Taylor University Jazz Combo whom provided some snazzy tunes for our audience. Though not an audience favorite, the Growth Council stuck by its attire of Black Tie and hopes to continue the tradition next year…However, the GC Team was disappointed that the audience failed to note the optional White Tie, since staff was looking forward to seeing some fun top hats and tails. Also, a new item on the Annual Dinner activities was an experimental "photo booth." Check out photos to see who got a snapshot!
With over 170 local elected officials, business leaders, young professionals, and Growth Council staff, the event was a success. Dinner was provided by The Mill (a huge thanks) though we learned that conflicts do arise when steak is served during Lent! Not to worry, we will make sure to keep that noted for our 28th anniversary.
Bill shared on his experiences as a winner and participant on The Apprentice, his first venture as an entrepreneur when he was a young child (Grandmothers and their friends make excellent investors!), and how he launched his first successful business, http://www.cigar.com/, which he has now sold. As a part of the evening, a trivia contest was held, and as a part of the prize, the winning table also received a signed copy of Bill Rancic's book, "You're Hired."
Some of the feedback we received for the evening (thanks to those of you who responded to the survey for your feedback!):
- "I appreciated being able to attend the wonderful evening event through the generosity of GCEGC and the Sponsors. I understand it's costly to host such a great event, but I couldn't have gone otherwise. THANK YOU! As always, you all did a MAGNIFICENT JOB!!"
- "By the way, I loved the name."
- "The event looked like I was walking into a wedding reception. The place looked great. This was the best-catered food that I have had at any event that I can remember in years."
- "Nice affair with a good theme."
And our staff favorite:
- "I hear Tim Eckerle plays the banjo exceptionally well. Perhaps this could this be incorporated into the program in the future."
Our staff has never heard Tim play the banjo, so we are all excited to hear him play as well ;) Thanks to whoever left that fun little comment.
Well, we look forward to another "swanky" event next year!! Please make sure to follow us for other upcoming events in the Fall. Thank you to all of our participants this year (and sponsors), it wouldn't have been a great event without you all.
Sincerely,
Growth Council Team
(Tim, Angelina, Sarah, Cathryn)