MTA Educational Conference & Expo Highlights

MTA Opening Session
Wednesday, January 25, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Featuring Keynote Address by Renowned Journalist Mort Crim

As a life-long TV and radio journalist, Mort Crim draws from the thousands of interviews he has conducted to show that happiness and success are never a matter of circumstances. His career as a broadcaster includes five years with ABC news in New York, 15 years as a nationally syndicated radio commentator, nearly five years as vacation substitute for Paul Harvey, and 20 years as vice president and news anchor for WDIV, the NBC television station in Detroit. As the author of seven inspirational books, including How To Be As Terrific As Your Dog Thinks You Are and Good News for Tough Times, Mort has an inspirational message that all local government leaders need to hear.

Mort asserts that many of our most cherished assumptions have been demolished as new realities have come crushing down on them over the past couple of decades-the assumption that anyone who wants to work can find a job; that our children will have it better than we did; and that America will always be the strongest, wealthiest nation in the world. These, and many other truisms, are bending-if not breaking-under the weight of new, harsh facts. But the "new normal" doesn't have to be depressing. In fact, when we examine the potential and the possibilities within our current crisis, we can find many reasons for optimism and hope. Mort's moving presentation will not only inspire you, but it will offer you a new perspective with which to view your life.

Before the keynote address, MTA President Jack Randolph and MTA Executive Director Larry Merrill will offer perspectives from their unique vantage points, providing insight and information to assist township officials in the year ahead. Witness the pride of townships during the 2012 Township Parade of Flags, and celebrate the success of Township Governance Academy graduates as they cross the stage to receive their certificate.

Experience the power of townships and join with more than 1,000 dedicated public servants in imagining, focusing and evolving a better future for Michigan.

Keynote address underwritten by UMBAUGH

 "3-D in the Big D" Opening Reception
Tuesday, January 24, 8 p.m. to Midnight

If you're in town for a Pre-Conference session or arriving Tuesday evening, stop by the "3-D in the Big D" at the Detroit Pub to enjoy the company of fellow township officials and their guests. Along with great conversation, Desserts, Drinks & Dancing in Detroit are the focus of this popular event!

NOTE: Transportation will be provided to/from the Detroit Pub from the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center motor lobby. Attendees and guests registered for Tuesday Pre-Conference and/or the Main Conference may attend this event. Please wear your Conference badge for entrance. For your convenience, MTA Registration is open from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

Hosted by Bendzinski & Co., Municipal Finance Advisors

MTA Expo
Wednesday, January 25, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. & 2:45 to 3:15 p.m.
Thursday, January 26, 8:30 to 10 a.m. & 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Stop by the 2012 MTA Expo, Michigan's largest municipal exposition, where more than 120 vendors are ready to show products and services that can help improve your township's operations. Take advantage of this resource and network with vendors, get your questions answered and learn about opportunities that will benefit your township. Explore ground-breaking technologies that can take your township to the next level, and discover solutions to achieve your township's goals and meet the needs of your community.

Visit with staff at the MTA Booth and take advantage of great savings on MTA publications and products. PLUS-YOU HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN A FABULOUS PRIZE! Just bring the CONFERENCE REMINDER MAILER you'll receive in December to the MTA Booth to play PLINKO (remember the TV game show, The Price is Right?). You could even walk away with this year's grand prize--a Zoll Automated External Defibrillator (AED) Plus, valued at $1,300, courtesy of Mobile Medical Response, Inc. NOTE: The grand prize will be drawn at the MTA Annual Meeting from among the PLINKO finalists; must be present to win.

Complimentary chair massage offered during Official Expo Hours, courtesy of Waste Management.

NEW THIS YEAR: "By Appointment Only"
Need more "one-on-one" time with an exhibitor? Then schedule a personal appointment with an exhibitor! During the 1:30 to 2:45 p.m. educational breakout on Wed., Jan. 25, and the 10 to 11:15 a.m. educational breakout on Thurs., Jan. 26, the Ontario Exhibit Hall will be officially closed EXCEPT to those exhibitors and attendees who have set an appointment at a given booth at a pre-arranged time. Attendees will be permitted into the Exhibit Hall ONLY if they have an appointment card (given out by exhibitors) and check in with MTA staff at the door.

Country & Western Night

Wednesday, January 25, 6 to 9 p.m.

Why travel all the way to the Lone Star State when you can get the flavor at the Detroit Renaissance as the Par Plan brings its spin of western meets urban cowboy to the D! Three hours of non-stop fun and entertainment! Stop by the old Dodge photography shop or ride the mechanical bull. If you’re too tired to dance, find yourself a bale of hay and just kick back with hors d'oeuvres and a beverage and enjoy the sounds of Derringer. Don’t forget your hat and boots!

Sponsored by Michigan Township Participating Plan

MTA Networking Banquet
Thursday, January 26, 6:30 to 9 p.m.

For 2012, MTA returns to a more traditional format, opening with a delicious dinner* (crisp garden green salad, Motor City ale-braised short ribs, horseradish cheddar mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and choice of fudge brownie cake with raspberry sauce or cheesecake with cherry compote). Legislators and other special guests will join township officials to recognize those who have made significant contributions to advancing township government.

Then, take "A Rock n' Roll Road Trip" with America's Most Exciting Show Band, Rick K. and The Allnighters, who will take you on a high-speed, cross-country tour of rock's greatest hits-from the Fabulous ‘50s, to the groovy ‘60s Explosion and ‘70s hustle of Disco Nights, to the greatest hits of the 1980s, ‘90s and today.

Entertainment sponsored by Consumers Energy

*NOTE: Those with special dietary needs should contact Kristin at
(517) 321-6467, ext. 230, prior to Conference. The Banquet is included in the full-Conference or Thursday-only registration fee. A ticket will be issued with your Conference credentials. Additional tickets may be purchased at the MTA Registration Center prior to 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25.

Afterglow Gala
Thursday, January 26, 9 p.m. to Midnight

As the 2012 MTA Conference & Expo winds down, take one more opportunity to network with colleagues and friends before saying "good night." The popular Afterglow Gala provides the perfect setting to have a conversation, enjoy beverages and dance to the music-right in the heart of Motown at the beautiful Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center.

Sponsored by the Burnham & Flower Insurance Group

MTA Annual Meeting
Friday, January 27, 9 to 11 a.m.

Help determine the future direction of the Association by providing input and casting your vote on resolutions to guide in the development of MTA's 2012 Policy Platform. Installation of the Association's new president and officers will occur during this meeting, as well as recognition of MTA's newest life member. In addition, door prize drawings will take place during the meeting including an announcement of the grand prize winner from the MTA Booth PLINKO game!