As the holidays approach, it is a time to be grateful — grateful for family, friends, good health and strength in difficult economic times. I don't think I've met one person, in any industry, who has not been impacted by the economic downturn. Yet, we have all persevered, continue to weather the storm, and see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel.

In good times and bad, it is important to rely on our “people” — our network of business professionals who sustain and support us — our team. If it weren't for these players, we could not have amazing events. I have such a team, and I am proud to say that my team includes ISES members. They are my event “family.”

The ISES family comprises a network of worldwide professionals who number more than 6,000. With more than 40 chapters in the United States alone, there are ample opportunities to sign up and become a part of an amazing society of incredible event professionals. The ISES vision — “Dedicated and educated to deliver creative excellence and professionalism in special events” — is a principle that every ISES member subscribes to. ISES members continue to educate themselves, stay at the top of the industry, and adhere to the highest level of integrity and ethics.

ISES creates cutting-edge opportunities for continued event education and intimate networking opportunities. The recently launched ISES Community, a social networking platform on www.ises.com, has been an incredible success. Available to members only, the network enables ISES professionals to create a profile and rub elbows with industry leaders and associates as virtual friends. Online discussion groups are a great way to hone your skills and share your own tips and leadership.

ISES offers too many benefits to name here; benefits are listed in the member center at www.ises.com. Many local chapters have their own benefits as well. Check with your chapter's V.P. of Membership to find out more.

December is the month to join ISES — it's the December membership drive! For only $199, you can become a member until June 30, 2010. That's seven months of membership and an unlimited amount of value — tangible and intangible. I so strongly believe in the value of ISES that I have been the chairperson of the International Membership Committee for two years and have served on the committee for three. Fellow ISES members who have joined me on the committee are just as passionate about ISES as I am. We trust in the society and all it has to offer.

My ISES membership has been a gift. I have been gifted with education, networking opportunities and friendships. I am grateful for these gifts and I urge you to reap the same rewards. Thank you, ISES!

Name: Jenne Hohn

Company: Jenne Hohn Events

Address: P.O. Box 6513 Napa, CA 9458 USA

Phone: 707/337-3490

Web site: www.hohnevents.com