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 Ready, Set, Go
I’m thrilled to be officially on the clock as IAAPA’s chairman of the board for 2011. This year is an exciting time for the association. With its global strategy to bring services and events to locations around the world, expanded education opportunities for all professional levels, and the initiation of a certification program, the association is primed for major changes and developments.
Regarding Asia Pacific and Europe, I have the pleasure of welcoming two executive directors to the association. Andrew Lee, the new executive director of Asia Pacific, has extensive experience in the tourism, leisure, and convention industries; I am confident he is the perfect person to lead our growth plan in the region. In Europe, Karen Staley was appointed new executive director of IAAPA’s European operations. Staley has a long history with IAAPA, including most recently serving as deputy director of IAAPA’s European operations. Please join me in welcoming Lee and Staley to these new roles.
This issue of FUNWORLD focuses on small/independent parks and includes extensive coverage of IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010. Though I’m an FEC owner and operator, I find lessons in every corner of our industry. My FEC in North Carolina—like many in this business—has diversified and expanded its offerings over the years. I’ve got the games and play areas, but I’ve added a waterpark and dry rides, too. This blurring of lines in our industry is more apparent than ever at IAAPA Attractions Expo, where experts and innovators come together to create solutions for our members across all constituencies. Look through this issue and take an idea from a small park, an FEC, a museum, or one of our award-winning exhibitors.
On a personal note, I would like to thank Charlie Bray, former IAAPA president and CEO, for his dedication and hard work for IAAPA. I wish him all the best in his new opportunity. The IAAPA Executive Committee is in the process of finding a great candidate to take on the role of president and CEO.
It is my honor to take on the role of chairman for 2011 and watch our members, the industry, and the association thrive. I look forward to meeting many of you at IAAPA events over the next 12 months.
Sincerely,
Bob Rippy, Chairman of the Board
Expo Session Recordings
Complete audio and visual recordings from most of the IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010 conference sessions are now available for purchase and online viewing at http://iaapa.peachnewmedia.com/store/provider/provider09.php. Purchase the complete conference set or education tracks and save!
Expo Handouts
Download presentation materials from IAAPA Attractions Expo 2010 seminars and workshops at www.IAAPA.org/IAAPAAttractionsExpo/Handouts/.
On the Blog: ADA Update
Read all about what U.S. members need to know about new rules going into effect right here: http://iaapainthequeue.blogspot.com/2010/10/ada-update-and-opportunities-to-learn.html.
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