The FICP Summer Education Forum will sport a new look in 2006, with an upgraded education program suitable for all levels of meeting planners. The event, to be held at the Ritz-Carlton Lodge, Reynolds Plantation in Greensboro, Ga., begins Wednesday, June 14 and concludes by noon, Friday, June 16, so that those who wish to return home for the weekend may do so. Transfers to the resort are available at a nominal charge, thanks to a sponsorship that defrays the costs.

The Forum will begin with a “Meet Your Sponsors” gathering at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, followed by a welcome reception and dinner that evening. An orientation session for first-time attendees will be held immediately following the opening gathering.

Highlights of the Thursday and Friday morning program include:

Expect the unexpected (crisis-management planning)

Alternatives to wine

Presenting…You!

Planners exchange (always popular)

Taking a swing at golf logistics

An overview of the new APEX initiative and toolkit

NASD update

Two general sessions

There will be a reception and dinner Thursday evening after a full day of educational sessions. A light continental breakfast will be served Friday morning, and the forum will conclude with lunch. To register, go to www.ficpnet.com.