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A Look Back, A Look Forward
During my year as chairman, I had the pleasure and the privilege to meet with facility and attraction operators from around the world. Friends and colleagues from Russia, Australia, China, Malaysia, Italy, the USA, and several locations in Latin America graciously opened their parks, homes, and hearts to me, as I learned more about their cultures and businesses. What I took away from those visits was that we all speak the same language of quality, safety, and fun.
As my year as chairman comes to a close, I remember those visits fondly, and it makes me feel secure that IAAPA’s future is brighter as a global organization. IAAPA will continue that strategic goal with the opening of IAAPA Asia-Pacific Operations this year under the leadership of Andrew Lee. The office based in Hong Kong will serve the region’s IAAPA members with direct customer service and member benefits in their languages.
 I look forward to seeing Andrew and many of our international constituents at this month’s IAAPA Attractions Expo, which will now be hosted in Orlando for the next 10 years. I’m excited about our new agreement with the Orange County Convention Center that keeps the Expo in Orlando through 2019. The city is our “unofficial home,” and I look forward to all the opportunities this new strategic alliance will offer IAAPA in the future. I would be remiss if I did not thank my executive committee, board of directors, staff, and wife, Kathy, for all their hard work this year. And I would really encourage any of you who have dreamed about serving IAAPA to do so; this is an amazing industry with absolutely amazing people.
My final duty as chairman this year is to pass the gavel to Bob Rippy of Jungle Rapids. An amazing man and professional, Bob will guide the association in its strategic direction and continue to share his expertise in business and leadership with the IAAPA board, committees, and staff.
Good luck to Bob, and thank you to everyone for your support this year; it has been a privilege to serve you!
Have a sparkling day,
Chip Cleary, Chairman of the Board
Webinar Archives:
Miss one of our information-packed webinars? Archived sessions are available for members at no cost at this location: www.IAAPAorg/education/ elearn/elearning.asp#Past.
Crisis Plan Template:
IAAPA members can request the IAAPA Crisis Communications Plan Template, which allows attractions and suppliers to tailor a step-by-step plan specifically for their attractions. This great member benefit is valued at $5,000. Visit www.IAAPA.org/industry/indassociations/CrisisCommunicationsPlanTemplate.asp for more information and instructions on how to get your copy.
Tax Benefits for Employers:
Learn more about the HIRE Act, which offers some tax benefits to U.S. employers, including those who use seasonal workers. Read FAQs and download the form here: www.IAAPA.org/government/GR/index.asp.
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