Tell us who you are, where you work, and what your title is.
Michelle Gabelsberger
Conservation Federation of Missouri
Membership Development Coordinator
www.confedmo.org
How long have you been a member of MSAE?
I have been a member of MSAE for 2 years. Prior, I was a member with SGMP.
What do you value the most from MSAE?
I value the most from MSAE are the connections I have made. They are priceless! When I am stuck and need advice or guidance, I know I can reach out to an MSAE member. If they are not able to help, they know another MSAE member that can. The networking and professionalism is awesome.
What would you tell others about MSAE?
This is the group you need to be apart of. I have been involved with many organizations and MSAE has a family atmosphere. They inspire you to be better and help you grow professionally.
What are your hobbies/interests?
I enjoy kayaking with my family and friends. Learn from my son's hobbies of beekeeping, Scouting, and now blacksmithing.
What is your favorite place to visit in Missouri?
Missouri itself. I haven't been to one spot that I didn't like in Missouri. It's very hard to pick one place. The location is almost like the Missouri weather. Just travel 100 miles and it's different.
Tell us who you are, where you work, and what your title is.
Hello there! My name is Erica White. I am the Sales Manager at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Center in Springfield, MO.
www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sgfdtdt-doubletree-springfield/https://www.facebook.com/Doubletree.SpringfieldMO
How long have you been a member of MSAE?
I have been a member of MSAE since 2018.
What do you value the most from MSAE?
I greatly value the opportunities for education and relationship building that is provided with MSAE. I have met many wonderful members!
What would you tell others about MSAE?
It is a great organization to be involved in!
What are your hobbies/interests?
I enjoy spending time with my husband, church community, and checking out the many local restaurants in Springfield, MO.
What is your favorite place to visit in Missouri?
I spent time with my dad on the Gasconade River growing up. I would love to plan a trip with him on the river next summer! I love that Missouri has so many opportunities to enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
Tell us who you are and what your title is. 
Lagina Fitzpatrick, CMP, CHSC
Director of Sales
www.funlake.com
How long has your organization been a member of MSAE?
Great question, way before my time. I believe it has been 20+ years.
What is the most memorable MSAE Event you hosted or attended?
I enjoy FUNFEST. The Lake CVB has hosted the dinner for over 10 years. We also sponsor a team and a beverage hole. It is great to visit with all the members as they come by our hole, where a fun game can be found!! And of course, at the evening event. We are very excited to host the Holiday event his year at the Lake!!!
What value/ROI do you and your organization receive from your MSAE membership?
The networking is next to none. I have formed some great relationships, professional and personal through MSAE. The Association market is approximately 50% of our group business, so our membership is key to our business success.
In your opinion, what are the top two benefits of working with a CVB?
CVB’s are a FREE extension of your site and planning team. We are here to make your life easier and make you look good! CVB reps have a vast knowledge of their area and can make recommendations of venues or attractions planners might not be aware existed.
Anything new in your area you would like to share with the membership??
Our convention properties have completed over $70 million in renovations over the last several years. The Lake has several new venues and attractions that opened in 2020. The Malted Monkey Ropes Course & Restaurant opened this summer on the famous Bagnell Dam Strip. They do offer teambuilding and group events! Ballparks National, baseball and softball complex, opened this fall with state-of-the-art synthetic turf fields. The Lake also welcomed several new restaurants and retail stores including; Old Navy, First Watch Restaurant, CoCo’s Bistro, Lake of the Ozarks Brewing Company and Smokin’ Jones Ozark Style BBQ. Visit us online to view more about these locations at www.funlake.com
