Each year in November, the annual convention and trade show marks the largest gathering in our industry. This year we will be holding the event at the Orange County Convention Center’s new North/South Complex. The center has arranged for some extraordinary media coverage locally with a private VIP tour for some local dignitaries, and an official dedication of the complex. The exhibit space is one of the most accommodating for our event. Attendee navigation will be much easier, since you can literally stand at the middle of the trade show floor and see everything happening in all directions. The outdoor space is the best IAAPA has ever had for outdoor rides. It will be close to the convention center floor and can hold more exhibits than ever before. The new complex will be the home of our trade show and convention both this year and next year. What a fabulous way to kick off what is sure to be a positive beginning to a new business cycle for our industry. I would like to close with a sincere thanks to the organizers of the IAAPA Summer Meeting in Australia. The people at AALARA, Steve Peet, Kelvin O’Reilly, Greg O’Neil, and Len Shaw, along with their fellow AALARA delegates, pulled off a fun and exciting event. It is very heartening to see such a unified amusement industry at the other end of the world, succeeding through some of the toughest times for operating an amusement facility. The insurance problem is tough everywhere but particularly in Australia, where the industry has been experiencing considerable hardship. I would also like to thank each and every one of you who supported and fostered the conducting of business in an honest and professional manner this year. With tough economic times both behind and possibly ahead, it is the people and companies who conduct business in a proper manner who will weather the storm. I hope to see you in Orlando. Best Wishes, John P.C. Collins Chairman of the Board
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