Press Release
For Immediate Release
September 3, 2009
Contact: R.V. Baugus
(972) 906-7441x1014
www.iaam.org
IAAM’s 84th Annual Conference & Trade Show a Success in Historic Boston
Coppell, TX— The International
Association of Assembly Managers recently concluded its 84th Annual
Conference & Trade Show in Boston with attendee energy levels so high
that thoughts immediately turned to Houston and next year’s conference.
“Boston was an outstanding conference with some of the best quality and
variety in the educational offerings that we have previously had,” said
an enthusiastic Shura Lindgren-Garnett, CFE, who assumed the title of
Chairman of the Board of Directors in Boston.
Added Randy Brown, CFE, who was voted as Second Vice Chairman during the
conference: “I think that this year’s Annual Conference & Trade Show was
one of IAAM’s best! The educational sessions were just exceptional. If
you did not attend you missed a great opportunity to take some cutting
edge concepts and ideas back to your facility.”
In a city and region that celebrates sports champions (Boston Red Sox,
Boston Celtics, New England Patriots), IAAM celebrated its return to
Boston with what many have indeed called the most relevant line-up of
educational offerings ever. Once again, an outstanding trade show was
held in partnership with the National Association of Concessionaires (NAC)
as well as a delivery of networking opportunities that IAAM members have
come to expect at an Annual Conference.
“This was another well-organized and excellently executed trade show,”
said Ebbe Hviid Christensen, ReachMaster, Inc. “We were quite spoiled
this year on several counts, including a ceiling height that allowed us
to truly show the ‘extension’ of our capabilities. It really couldn’t be
more perfect, and we received many compliments for our booth.”
The conference once again included an International Pavilion that
featured speakers from all parts of the world discussing far-ranging
topics that are applicable to everyone in the industry.
For some, like Immediate Past President of the Board Robyn Williams, CFE,
the more interactive International Forum was impressive. “I found the
International Issues session very interesting,” she said. “Listening to
facility managers from all over the world talk about the innovative
things they are doing is a rare opportunity.”
Steve Romer, based in Sydney, Australia and president of Venue
Management Association, found the long trip he made to Boston to be well
worth it.
“The IAAM Annual Conference & Trade Show delivered exceptional value to
me,” he said. “As an international public assembly facility manager, I
was able to network with international peers, participate in excellent
educational programs, and experience first-hand the latest products and
services on the trade show floor. The IAAM conference is the world’s
leading meeting of venue management professionals and is a must-attend
experience.”
IAAM again delivered on its keynote presentations with Robert F.
Kennedy, Jr. speaking at the Opening Keynote Session on “Contract With
Our Future,” while Erik Wahl’s “The Art Of Vision” held the audience
spellbound as he literally drew his way through his presentation at the
Inaugural Luncheon.
In addition to Lindgren-Garnett receiving the Chairman’s gavel from
Williams at the Inaugural Luncheon, other prominent industry
professionals were honored as Brad Mayne, CFE, received the Charles A.
McElravy Award, the industry’s highest award, and Chuck Bailey received
the Joseph J. Anzivino Distinguished Allied Award for his meritorious
allied service and contribution to the industry.
Linda Deckard and Peter Gruber were the latest honorees to join IAAM’s
Legacy of Leaders after receiving Presidential Citations.
Boston was clearly a conference of celebration and for many the decision
to attend was a fast and easy one.
“With the ability to attend only one conference this year, the decision
to attend the Annual Conference in Boston was an easy one,” said Bob
LeBarron, CFE. “The chance to connect with exhibitors during the trade
show and the special discounts they offered more than recouped the cost
of registration and travel. The strong educational sessions and numerous
networking opportunities rounded out a valuable week.”
Commented John Siehl, CFE, who next year will become the new Chairman of
the Board of Directors: “Boston, what a town and what a conference! The
professional development sessions were some of the most timely that IAAM
has ever offered. Combine that with the experience and history of the
city … what a wonderful experience!”
The 85th Annual Conference & Trade Show will take place July
23-27, 2010 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston,
Texas.
The International Association of Assembly Managers is the world's
largest professional association dedicated to issues relevant to the
management of public assembly venues. Members of the association manage
public assembly venues such as amphitheaters, arenas, auditoriums,
convention centers/exhibit halls, performing arts venues, stadiums and
university complexes; or provide products, services or attractions to
support the industry. IAAM has more than 3,600 members worldwide. More
information is available at www.iaam.org.
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