Wednesday, May 30th 2012:
Speed Networking -
Not to be confused with speed dating!
You've heard of speed dating; now replace the romance with the intellect! Meet new prospects and contact industry colleagues with a common interest, while making new friends in a Speed Networking event, created and sponsored by ASDE Survey Sampler, Inc. You will meet one on one, with one person after the other, at shortly timed intervals.
The event is a complimentary opportunity included in the full registration package. However you must indicate your interest / sign up when you register for the conference, since space is limited to 120 participants and it is usually over-subscribed. The speed networking program will take place Wednesday May 30th from 4-5pm. Once you register we ask you not to cancel or arrive late or at the last minute, otherwise persons you are pre-matched with, may find themselves alone. The event will start at 4:00 pm sharp. Plan your flights accordingly!
Welcome Party and Tradeshow
Iceberg Alley, The Rock, Kitchen Party, Whale Watching, Seabird Nesting Grounds, First Sunrise in North America. All this is Newfoundland and Labrador!
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador is well known for its history and breathtaking scenery and of course, warm hospitality from those who live there. Come ‘Sample the Edge’ of marketing research.
Please join us for the Opening Welcome Reception and Tradeshow, located in the main ballroom of the Delta St. John’s Hotel, where we will kick off the 2012 MRIA National Conference at 5PM on Wednesday May 30.
From the Delta St. John’s make sure you join us at the Johnson GEO CENTRE – where the fun and welcome reception will continue. As soon as you enter the Johnson GEO CENTRE, you know you’re in for an “out of this world” experience. From the main lobby, you'll gaze out at the breathtaking, full-colour planets of our solar system, hanging within the three-storey high Reception Hall. It's simply spectacular!
Cut from the ancient rock of Signal Hill in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, the Johnson GEO CENTRE takes you deep underground to experience the story of planet Earth. Explore our planet’s incredible history, get the real story behind the sinking of the Titanic, learn about the volcanoes, earthquakes and natural forces that shape the very ground beneath our feet, and so much more.
Enjoy meeting new friends and catching up with friends and colleagues you haven’t seen in a while. Come get to know this place a little better while enjoying some fantastic local seafood from the cold, clean waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t miss out on the hors d’oeuvres, flambé stations, seafood mirrors, and of course plenty of local spirits and beer to quench your thirst!
The Johnson GEO CENTRE is located on historic Signal Hill and transportation to and from will be provided for all conference attendees.Thursday, May 31st 2012
Gala and Awards Soiree
Be sure to join your friends and colleagues at our 2012 MRIA Gala Soiree. Every year we congratulate and recognize exceptional projects undertaken in our industry, as nominated by agencies and client-side researchers alike. We take note of excellence in volunteerism and chapter leadership. Along with the Excellence in Research Awards, we also honor winners in student competitions across Canada as well as new CMRPs. It’s an integral part of the Conference experience and a perfect way to celebrate the relationships that are so important in our community.
In the true spirit of Newfoundland hospitality, you’ll be treated to a culinary extravaganza featuring the finest fare from our host city’s shores. And of course, there’ll be a few fun surprises throughout the night…..
We are very excited to announce that the Irish Descendants will perform at the 2012 MRIA Gala Soiree. Since forming in 1990, the band has had a profound impact on music lovers all over the world. The Irish Descendants won the 1996 East Coast Music Award for “East Coast Music Entertainers of the Year” and were also presented with a Juno Award for “Best Roots/Traditional Album” for their album Gypsies & Lovers.
You can count on returning home with the music… and the stories, ringing in your ears.
Proudly sponsored by:
Friday, June 1st 2012
The ‘True’ Flavour of Newfoundland: Rally in the Alley (AKA George Street Pub Crawl)
Newsflash: 300 Researchers Let Loose On George Street.
Desperately In Need of….
George Street: A St. John’s landmark with more bars and pubs per capita than any other city in Canada. Among the 25 bars, pubs and clubs on George Street, you will find all types of music-irish, blues, country, dance, rock and roll, traditional…keeping the party going until 3am.
On the last evening of the MRIA 2012 National Conference, being Friday June 1st delegates get to experience the famous nightlife of downtown St. John’s. The evening starts with a traditional Pub Dinner, followed by the world-renowned “Rally in the Alley” Pub Crawl. The cost is included in the delegate full conference pass - additional passes can be purchased for spouses and guests through the MRIA portal for $75 pp. plus applicable taxes.
The Starting Point
Delegates will gather in the Delta Hotel Ballroom for the start of the "Rally in the Alley". Colourful "Rally in the Alley" scarves are presented to delegates, and the crowd is split up into three groups. Let the games begin! The night starts with a colourful march to George Street…
Sample St. John’s Finest Fare!
Located on one of the oldest streets in North America, the Sundance Saloon/Club One will provide a feast of traditional fish n’ chips that has made St. John’s so famous. For those who are allergic to seafood we have alternative meals (please indicate your preference while registering on the MRIA Portal). While eating, listen to traditional Newfoundland music!
Let the Real Fun Begin…
After dinner, the pub crawl commences! Delegate teams travel (note: gets more difficult as the night goes on) to different bars on George Street. Newfoundland traditions await at each bar: Ever wanted to learn how to Step Dance like Michael Flatley? How about singing with a traditional Newfoundland band? And, the Pinnacle Event…we can’t let you leave without becoming an honorary Newfoundlander! Participate in the first MRIA Screech In!
Following the pub crawl, delegates will gather at Dusk Ultra Lounge for live entertainment! End the night with a Scuff (dance) and a Swalley (drink)!
Cheers!
PRICE PER non-delegate Guest : $75.00
includes transportation to George Street, Fish n’ Chips pub dinner, entrance to pubs, 4 beverages, Screech-In ceremony, custom Rally bandanas, McCarthy’s attendants, entertainment on pub-crawl, and local band to finish.
