2009 Joint Conference Highlights
E
asy – Breezy. That’s the atmosphere the nearly 200 attendees of the LSAE/MSAE joint conference enjoyed at the Hilton Sandestin Beach Resort & Spa.
The Sandestin Hilton staff offered members a warm welcome with the opening reception in the exhibit hall which offered a delightful environment for members to meet and greet. The opening night dinner, also sponsored by the Sandestin Hilton, was a delicious buffet of the gulf’s finest foods. No experience was required at the casino tables. Monte Carlo Productions, with its friendly and patient staff, showed everyone a good time in the ‘casino hall.” “We were pleased to see everyone who showed up in Destin for the convention,” said Layne Bruce, 2009 conference chair. “We thank the Sandestin Hilton for putting on such a good show - both nights were fantastic.” The Program Committee did an outstanding job creating educational sessions that were relevant to our membership. From social technology to PR strategies, the sessions promised something new for everyone. The Services Panel was well received with questions and answers from some of our vendors. Though members were watching the weather all morning between meetings, the storms passed and the afternoon proved to be a great time of networking and fun. Beach activities were sponsored by the Mississippi Department of Tourism. Due to the unpredictable weather, the beach activities were moved safely to the pavilion at the nearby pool and folks just pulled up chairs and visited. Unexpected entertainment was provided by Phil Gagnet with his hysterical stories and fun mysteries to solve. It turned out to be a casual, relaxing afternoon by the pool while others enjoyed a game of golf or shopping at the nearby outlet mall. Associate Members had several opportunities to promote their business or property in the exhibit hall at the reception, breaks and during the silent auction. “We are particularly grateful to vendors and exhibitors for making the trip and supporting us,” said Bruce. The Silent Auction, a favorite event for many MSAE members, brought attendees to the exhibit tables to preview and bid on the auction items. The silent auction raised over $8,000. Proceeds are raised to support members who are studying for the CAE & CMP credentials. “It’s very challenging to host a trade show these days, and it is a testimony to our membership that as many exhibitors showed up,” said Bruce. “Next year we’re looking to build a bigger & better event that will be meaningful to all of the attendees.”
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