“On behalf of all of us in Baltimore, I would like to extend my heartfelt thank you to all of my IAVM colleagues and friends. We are strong and committed to overcome the experiences that we are going through,” said Peggy Daidakis, executive director of the Baltimore Convention Center. “There is so much good about Baltimore that the media is not showing. Citizens cleaning up their neighborhoods after the destruction; children handing out water to the police; students organizing peaceful protests; food, beverages, and words of appreciation to the National Guard and other law enforcement officers for keeping us safe and maintaining order.”
IAVM is going to Baltimore. We are supporting a vibrant city, great venues, and inspiring members. Through your attendance at VenueConnect, through our events in the city (including our meet-up at Camden Yards!), and through the Foundation Legacy Project, we are preparing to bring the best of who we are and what we do to a wonderful host city.
“When you visit Baltimore for VenueConnect, we will show you the Baltimore filled with wonderful attractions, cultural events, great restaurants, the Baltimore Orioles, and friendly people who want you to have the best experience while you are here,” Daidakis said. “You will not be disappointed.”
The opportunity for meaningful connections is bigger than ever, with our two-day trade show and six networking events—at Camden Yards, the National Aquarium, the Baltimore Convention Center, Bulle Rock golf course—and more.
“Our friends and colleagues in Baltimore need our support now more than ever. We can all be part of the solution and the healing for this wonderful city,” said Kim Bedier, CFE, chair of IAVM. “I look forward to attending VenueConnect in Baltimore in August and hope you will join us for an outstanding professional development experience.”
“VenueConnect is shaping up to be a tremendous event for everyone that attends, and it could not be more important than now for all of us to commit to making IAVM’s 90th conference a resounding success for our association and the city of Baltimore,” said Vicki Hawarden, CMP, president and CEO of IAVM. “Our support from local members and the city of Baltimore has been fantastic, and it will be on full display when we all arrive this August.”
This summer’s conference marks the 90th year for IAVM, and plans are well underway for a celebration that truly embodies the association’s legacy of enduring support to the people, companies, and venues that bring unforgettable experiences to cities throughout the world.
“I am so lucky to be a part of an industry with so many good and caring people,” Daidakis said. “I have been overwhelmed with the personal emails from many of you. I cannot thank you enough. All the best to all of you, and see you this summer. We want you to come and experience a great city!”
Our hearts go out to Peggy Daidakis, colleagues and the citizens of Baltimore. Allow me to echo Peggy’s comments by offering this perspective; Dave Ross, CFE and I back in 2007 served to advance the 2015 IAVM VenueConnect City and Baltimore exceeded our expectation. We toured the city, hotels, and restaurants, aquarium, harbor, and met with our hosts, city stakeholders and partners, and we were thrilled to select Baltimore as our 2015 host city.
On a personal note, my daughter Christina, who is studying physiology at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, did an internship last summer in Baltimore, in the courts system. She worked while in the Baltimore as well. She was inspired and wants to return again this year.
My fellow IAVM family, I encourage you to register and attended VenureConnect. Also, I ask for your support and participating in the IAVM Foundation’s Legacy Project, what a great way to give back and help those in need.
Larry Perkins
My wife and I are very much looking forward to VenueConnect in the Baltimore and would also like to echo Peggy’s comments.
See you this summer!
Dear iAVM Colleagues,
I am already committed to attending Venue Connect in Baltimore this summer. As Larry Perkins mentioned, we have been looking forward to this conference for a long time. Baltimore truly has a lot to offer and we can “Make A Difference” in the city’s healing process and in our own industry. Baltimore has invested alot of time, effort and money in preparing for our arrival in July. Please join me in supporting their efforts with your attendance this summer. You will not be disappointed.
Sincerely,
David B. Ross, CFE