Countdown to National Conference

[pampchefsarah]

That's a great idea, Rae! When we visited Pittsburgh a couple of years ago, my daughter (13 at the time), decided to give a homeless man a dollar, so she reached in her pocket, handed the money to him, and just as he grabbed hold, realized she was handing him a $20! She couldn't exactly say "oops, not that one," so she had to let him have it. She was really upset with herself, though, because she'd been given very limited spending money for the trip. We did use it as a teaching opportunity, that God had plans for that money to be used for something other than souvenirs, it's wonderful she had a giving heart, and, yes, she should pay more attention next time, but in the end it was a good thing (and, yes, Mommy reimbursed her the money!). We can't really be sure, though, the money was used for food, or shared with his friends. It could have gone towards alcohol. Your idea, though, will prevent such accidents from happening.

 

[wadesgirl]

Today is May 16. There are 57 days until the start of National Conference.

You're likely to encounter people in Chicago asking for money. I know I did the last time I went to NC. I always hesitate to give cash, since I don't know how it will be used. I do like to help people, though. Someone gave me a great idea. I take fast food gift certificates with me. There are fast food places everywhere downtown. I can give knowing it can only be used for food. Plus, I can determine a specific amount before I leave for Chicago. I can give a few of dollars' worth to each one. Once I'm out of certificates, I've given the amount I set aside for those donations.

My best friend used to live in Chicago. Her car was stuck in the snow once an a couple homeless people came to help her. As she was reaching for her purse to give them money, one of the men grabbed through the window of her car and tried to grab her purse. Luckily she had it strapped across her body so he couldn't take it. If you plan on helping out, keep some money in your pocket so you aren't reaching for your purse. Also make it so that it's not easy to take your purse if you can.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 17. There are 56 days until the start of National Conference.You're packing your June and July schedules. I know you are. Don't forget to block out a bit of family time before and/or after NC. You'll also want to plan for a day or two to absorb all the NC info and start putting new ideas in place.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 18. There are 55 days until the start of National Conference.Travel can cause, um, digestive issues. While at NC, it would be easy to eat too little fiber and drink too little water. Plan ahead. Take some high-fiber snacks with you. Dried fruit, snack bars, and the like are portable and tasty. Make a conscious effort to drink lots of water. If you're picky about your water, take some of your favorite with you. Otherwise, just take along a refillable sport bottle. There are usually conveniently placed pitchers of water at each workshop. You'll feel better if you’re well hydrated.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 19. There are 54 days until the start of National Conference.Don't forget to pack sunscreen. Chances are you'll be doing a bit of walking around Chicago. That sun can be brutal in July. We want to make sure we all stay comfortable and healthy. Sunburns are definitely not comfortable, and skin cancer is not healthy.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 20. There are 53 days until the start of National Conference.I know there are lots of fun things to in the evening after the sessions. You’re probably already starting to make plans. Just remember to get plenty of sleep. It's hard to believe, but learning is actually one of the main reasons for NC. It's harder to absorb all that great stuff if you're too tired to listen.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 21. There are 52 days until the start of National Conference.If you haven't started a packing list, start it soon. It's probably best to make sure it's portable so you can jot things down as you think of them. Don't over pack, though. How to strike a balance? Why not talk with your roommates? You can probably share some things.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 22. There are 51 days until the start of National Conference.What to pack? Make a plan. You'll need business casual clothing with comfortable shoes for three days of workshops/sessions plus an extra day if you’re participating in anything on Monday. You’ll also need toiletries, a pen or two, and paper (note pad, loose paper, whatever you feel comfortable taking notes on). Yes, most workshops have handouts, but you might not want to take notes on them. For one thing, there might not be enough room on the sheets. For another, you might want to share the handouts with others. This is easier if they don’t have your notes all over them.

 

[AmyDare]

You'll need business casual clothing with comfortable shoes for three days of workshops/sessions plus an extra day if you’re participating in anything on Monday.

I need a good definition of "business casual". Does it go beyond "No shorts, jeans or tee shirts"? Is it slacks/skirt and blouse? Do capris and sandals (not flip flops) and a top count? What are the "no-no"s?

 

[ChefBeckyD]

I need a good definition of "business casual". Does it go beyond "No shorts, jeans or tee shirts"? Is it slacks/skirt and blouse? Do capris and sandals (not flip flops) and a top count? What are the "no-no"s?

This is probably what you will see the most of at conference.

No jeans, shorts, sneakers...(although you'll see some of all of these, too)

And can I add - no Hoochie-Mama clothing. I've seen some pretty inappropriate clothing at conference - Mini skirts, tube & halter tops are NEVER business casual wear.

 

[pampchefsarah]

This is probably what you will see the most of at conference.

No jeans, shorts, sneakers...(although you'll see some of all of these, too)

And can I add - no Hoochie-Mama clothing. I've seen some pretty inappropriate clothing at conference - Mini skirts, tube & halter tops are NEVER business casual wear.

Aww, man! Now I'll have to rethink my entire packing plan. Oh well, at least all of you will be able to keep your lunches down, now.:yuck:

 

[otisbg]

I agree with Becky. My director is always in capri's and nice sandals. I on the other hand am a jeans girl, so I switched over to khaki's and nice tops - some blouses or nice T's like from Kohl's. Because of health issues (arthritis) I do wear nice athletic shoes - not dirty, scuffed up ones, but also bring a stylish loafer too. Tons of walking so comfort needs to be first & foremost. You will see all kinds - even the basic black cocktail dresses. I saw jeans and halters and many men in shorts. Please no sweats or track suits - saw those too.

 

[BethCooks4U]

Today is May 22. There are 51 days until the start of National Conference.

What to pack? Make a plan. You'll need business casual clothing with comfortable shoes for three days of workshops/sessions plus an extra day if you’re participating in anything on Monday. You’ll also need toiletries, a pen or two, and paper (note pad, loose paper, whatever you feel comfortable taking notes on). Yes, most workshops have handouts, but you might not want to take notes on them. For one thing, there might not be enough room on the sheets. For another, you might want to share the handouts with others. This is easier if they don’t have your notes all over them.

Here's what I share with my team to use. This doc includes a sheet for the director training event. If you use it change it to reflect your needs and your executive's name...

In past years I put them in a binder, a 2 pocket folder, a PC binder. This year I got file folders so that they can easily pull out the sheet to do their notes and can put that and handouts in the file folder for later. I am also giving them a plastic file pocket that snaps closed to hold it all - including receipts. Your director may be doing something like this too - check with him/her before you do too much prep yourself. Whatever you decide to do be sure to bring at least a notebook as a backup.

 

[AmyDare]

Mini skirts, tube & halter tops are NEVER business casual wear.

Oh...that won't be a problem!!
Thanks all! I think I have a good mental picture now!

 

[raebates]

Thanks for sharing that, Beth.As for the clothing, yes, there will be lots of inappropriately-dressed people. That said, as long as you follow the instructions given by the HO (no shorts, no denim) with the addition of Becky's suggestions (no mini skirts, tube tops, or halter tops), you'll be fine.

 

[raebates]

Today is May 23. There are 50 days until the start of National Conference.Okay, so now that you know what type of clothes you'll need, make your plan. Plan out each outfit down to the jewelry you'll wear. Can you wear the same shoes* for more than one of your outfits? How about the same jewelry? Every decision either takes up more suitcase space or allows you more room.*Since we do so much walking and a bit of standing, it would probably be best for your feet if you alternate shoes. Wearing the same shoes several days in a row can worsen foot pain.

 

[ChefMary412]

IN regards to planning clothes, I have been using "evernote". It is a program that can be used on the blackberry (and other phones), and the computer. It is a way of keeping notes, photos, and spoken notes. I have been using it to the grocery store to keep track of lists. But it is neat too... when I am out and see something on sale, I can take a picture of it and add it to my "notes". I think it will work well at conference too. I can take pics of things and then add notes to it. It is worth looking at. I am sure their explanation on the website it better than mine.. haha.

 

[otisbg]

I need advice on booking my flight. I have my room secured and plan to arrive Monday morning but.....I need to make flight plans today. Do you think I can make a 2:45 flight from Midway on Thursday? The next flight out is 5pm and $25.00 more. What would you do? I did it last year = can I do it again? with more people running for cabs?:yuck:

 

[raebates]

Sorry, I can't help you. We drive in.

 

[lockhartkitchen]

Thanks for sharing that, Beth.

As for the clothing, yes, there will be lots of inappropriately-dressed people. That said, as long as you follow the instructions given by the HO (no shorts, no denim) with the addition of Becky's suggestions (no mini skirts, tube tops, or halter tops), you'll be fine.

Ah darn. I was going to wear the new tube top to show off the ta tas. Hee Hee.

 

[wadesgirl]

I need advice on booking my flight. I have my room secured and plan to arrive Monday morning but.....I need to make flight plans today. Do you think I can make a 2:45 flight from Midway on Thursday? The next flight out is 5pm and $25.00 more. What would you do? I did it last year = can I do it again? with more people running for cabs?:yuck:

We went from Leadership in Denver straight to the airport and didn't have a problem Personally just to give yourself piece of mind, I would take the 5 p.m. flight for the extra money.

 

[ChefAndiHV]

I would like to do a chef success gathering. I am a newbie to PC and NC. I would like to meet more consultants and get as many tips as possible on how to expand my business. I recently lost my Full time job and would like to have my business make up for that loss of Salary.

 

[pampchefsarah]

I need advice on booking my flight. I have my room secured and plan to arrive Monday morning but.....I need to make flight plans today. Do you think I can make a 2:45 flight from Midway on Thursday? The next flight out is 5pm and $25.00 more. What would you do? I did it last year = can I do it again? with more people running for cabs?:yuck:

I'm probably not too much help, either. My Director/friend and I decided to take an 8:30pm flight out because a) we didn't have to rush to the airport to make the 2something flight, b) it was cheaper than the 5something flight, and c) gives us more time to sight-see before going to the airport, and we can take our time and not worry about thousands of other consultants trying to get to the airport at the same time.

 

[otisbg]

Thanks to all of you who helped me with my decision - I decided to go with the 5pm flight - suck up the extra$$$ and de-stress my life a bit. I look forward to meeting you all at the CS get together. Everyone have a wonderful day!:sing:

 

[pampchefsarah]

Yay, Linda! You made the right decision, I think. Looking forward to meeting you, too!

 

[raebates]

I would like to do a chef success gathering. I am a newbie to PC and NC. I would like to meet more consultants and get as many tips as possible on how to expand my business. I recently lost my Full time job and would like to have my business make up for that loss of Salary.

Your wish has been granted. You'll find the information here:

http://www.chefsuccess.com/f104/chef-success-meet-n-greet-61091/

 

[raebates]

Today is May 23. There are 49 days until the start of National Conference.

The following was originally shared a few years ago by ChefAnn. Some of these we have no control over for NC (like planning too much in one day). Not every one applies directly to NC. Still, they’re good general travel tips.

8 mistakes that can spoil any trip

1. Winging it. Know where you're going to stay for at least the first night, especially after a long flight.

2. Packing too much. Limit yourself to one suitcase and one carry-on. Put a change of clothes and your daily medication in the carry-on in case your luggage gets lost.

3. Forgetting essential items. Make a list of things you frequently forget and put it in your empty suitcase.

4. Trying to do too much. Limit the number of activities you plan into each day. Schedule free days for long trips.

5. Trying to get too much work done at the last minute. Spread things out. You'll never have enough time to finish everything the day before you leave.

6. Calling the office too much. This can be a sign of insecurity or trying too hard to control everything. Your boss and co-workers know how to reach you in an emergency, right?

7. Misplacing essential items. Keep boarding passes, identification, passports, trip itineraries, and other documents in one small, easy-to-get-to pouch or bag. Put a bright sticker or ribbon on your luggage to make it stand out.

8. Leaving town without making arrangements to have the mail and newspaper picked up - a sure sign to would-be thieves that your house is empty.
​

 

[pampchefsarah]

Today is May 23. There are 49 days until the start of National Conference.

6. Calling the office too much. This can be a sign of insecurity or trying too hard to control everything. Your boss and co-workers know how to reach you in an emergency, right?
[/INDENT]

Years ago I took a day off to go downtown with my Mom and sisters for a day of Christmas shopping. The afternoon before, I told my 'big boss' (I worked under the Controller, and we both worked under the CFO), that if for some strange reason some kind of emergency came up that he absolutely needed to get hold of me, I'd have my cell phone with me (my point being, that in my job it was VERY unlikely anything exciting enough to be an emergency would come up during my absence). Well, there we are, walking down Market St., and my phone rings. It's the CFO with a question. Definitely not an emergency - I honestly don't remember what it was, but don't think it was even anything terribly important that couldn't wait until I got back. But, he found an excuse to call me, just so I could make an impression on my Mom and sisters! He was such a sweetie. Too bad 9/11 happened, and we had to close down. Well, too bad 9/11 happened, period.

 

[ChefAndiHV]

Thanks, I can't wait to meet you all.

 

[raebates]

ChefAndiHV, that's one of the most fun things about NC--finally meeting fellow Cheffers.