Corporate Event Scheduled

New York, August 21, 2008 -- New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the organization will retire jersey No. 9 in honor of Rangers great Adam Graves in an on-ice ceremony prior to the Rangers – Atlanta Thrashers game on Tuesday, February 3, 2009. This will be the last number retired from the 1994 Stanley Cup Championship team.

"Adam Graves is one of the most beloved players to ever don a New York Rangers sweater," stated Sather. "Off the ice, there isn’t a finer person. His effort and production as a hockey player was nothing short of triumphant and, even today, his dedication to the community is incomparable. We are proud to have Adam join his fellow 1994 Stanley Cup Champion teammates Mike Richter, Mark Messier and Brian Leetch, as well as legends Rod Gilbert and Eddie Giacomin, as his number is raised to the rafters of Madison Square Garden."

And the Rangers blow another chance to properly honour a hero, instead going for a money grabbing midweek guaranteed sell-out against a terrible team. So predictable. So sad.

EDIT: Apparently I closed my e-mail too fast to post this because they also anounced the Bathgate/Howell event:

New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the organization will retire jersey No. 9 and jersey No. 3 in honor of Rangers greats Andy Bathgate and Harry Howell, respectively, in an on-ice ceremony prior to the Rangers – Toronto Maple Leafs game on Sunday, February 22, 2009.
"Rangers history is enriched by players like Andy Bathgate and Harry Howell, who laid the foundation for what a Rangers player should be," stated Sather. "They will now take their rightful place in The Garden rafters alongside those players who have carried their tradition throughout the years."

I guess one out of two ain't bad ...

 "The Art and Science of Planning a Successful Corporate Event"

Corporate events are more than just gatherings; they are strategic opportunities for businesses to achieve various objectives, from fostering team cohesion to launching new products. Planning and executing a successful corporate event requires a delicate blend of art and science, creativity, and logistics. In this article, we will guide you through the intricacies of organizing a corporate event, from the initial planning stages to post-event evaluation.

Part 1: The Blueprint - Pre-Event Planning

1. Defining Objectives

The first step in planning a corporate event is to establish clear and measurable objectives. Whether it's boosting employee morale, attracting new clients, or showcasing innovation, these objectives will guide every decision.

2. Budgeting

Effective financial planning is crucial. We'll discuss budget allocation, cost control strategies, and the importance of contingency funds.

3. Venue Selection

Choosing the right venue is an art in itself. We'll explore factors such as location, accessibility, ambiance, and capacity that influence the choice of venue.

4. Event Concept and Theme

Crafting a compelling concept or theme sets the tone for the entire event. We'll discuss how to align your concept with your objectives and audience.

5. Guest List and Invitations

Managing your guest list and invitations involves careful consideration of who should attend. We'll explore strategies for reaching out to your target audience effectively.

Part 2: The Canvas - Event Design and Execution

6. Event Timeline and Agenda

Creating a detailed timeline and agenda ensures that the event runs smoothly. We'll discuss the importance of planning every minute and the role of a skilled event manager.

7. Entertainment and Activities

Entertainment can make or break an event. We'll explore options like keynote speakers, live performances, and team-building activities that engage and delight attendees.

8. Catering and Refreshments

Food and beverages are integral to any event. We'll look at menu planning, dietary considerations, and catering trends that cater to diverse tastes.

9. Audiovisual and Technology

Today's events rely heavily on technology. We'll delve into audiovisual requirements, digital presentations, and event apps that enhance the attendee experience.

10. Décor and Branding

The aesthetics of your event are vital. We'll discuss how décor and branding can reinforce your company's identity and create a memorable atmosphere.

Part 3: The Performance - Managing the Event

11. On-Site Coordination

Effective on-site coordination ensures that everything goes according to plan. We'll explore the roles of event staff, volunteers, and the event manager.

12. Crisis Management

No event is immune to unexpected challenges. We'll provide guidance on how to handle crises, from technical glitches to unexpected weather conditions.

13. Networking Opportunities

Corporate events are prime networking opportunities. We'll discuss strategies for facilitating meaningful connections among attendees.

Part 4: The Critique - Post-Event Evaluation

14. Post-Event Evaluation

After the event concludes, it's essential to evaluate its success. We'll look at key performance indicators (KPIs) and methods for gathering feedback.

15. Return on Investment (ROI)

Measuring the ROI of a corporate event is essential for assessing its impact on your business objectives. We'll discuss how to calculate ROI effectively.

Part 5: FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How far in advance should I start planning a corporate event?

The timeline can vary based on the event's scale, but it's advisable to start planning at least six months ahead for a large corporate event.

2. What technology tools are useful for event management?

Event management software, registration platforms, and mobile event apps are valuable tools for organizing and enhancing corporate events.

3. How do I handle dietary restrictions and preferences for catering?

Work closely with your caterer to provide diverse menu options that accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Organizing a successful corporate event requires a blend of creativity, careful planning, and meticulous execution. It's an art that involves creating memorable experiences while achieving strategic objectives. By following the guidelines in this article, you can master the art and science of corporate event planning, ensuring that your next event leaves a lasting impact and advances your business goals.