2008 combined IBM/SAM convention to change cities

[Richard Kaufman]

The latest press release from the IBM and SAM regarding the big combined convention in 2008:

NEW ORLEANS OUT FOR I.B.M./S.A.M. IN 2008:

Although New Orleans hotels and the city itself report they have rebounded well and are able to host the I.B.M./S.A.M. 2008 Combined Convention, the Orpheum and Saenger theaters were both heavily damaged by water and are not in operating condition.

We were all very disappointed to learn that both of these theaters, critical to the success of our contests and gala shows, did not have insurance and their future is uncertain, said Brad Jacobs, Convention Coordinator. Neither theater knows when it will open nor are they able to enter into contractual promises at this time. So the Organizing Committee has agreed to locate another venue for our convention and work has already begun.

The good news is that we are accepting full registrations at the special early rate of $295 starting January 15, as previously announced, said Roger Miller, I.B.M. International President and Treasurer for the Combined Convention. There is also a full refund with no penalty through March 31, 2008. Both I.B.M. and S.A.M. web sites will have complete registration information posted on the 15th of January.

A Combined Convention web site with links to registration and hotel reservations will be created as soon as the new venue has been selected. This is expected within the next 60-to-90 days.

[CraigMitchell]

Any update on venue selection yet :-)

[Bill Wells]

Craig -

The IBM midyear board meeting is in Kansas City next weekend. I am sure the combined convention will be discussed there. I will get you an update after the meeting.

Bill

[CraigMitchell]

Thanks, Bill ...

Sounds like its going to be a great event !

[CraigMitchell]

The good news is that we are accepting full registrations at the special early rate of $295 starting January 15"

Any idea where you go to register ?

[Richard Kaufman]

Try going to the official websites of both the IBM and SAM for a start.

[CraigMitchell]

Hi Richard

I did - and unless my browser isn't refreshing ... I don't see any relevant info. only the old press release: "New Orleans Out For 2008 IBM/SAM Convention"