Video: Conference veteran Robin Helburn

We spoke to conference veteran, Robin Helburn, manager of project administration for Strook & Strook & Lavan LLC, about her experience at conference so far.

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Video: ILTA President Joy Heath Rush comments on ILTA ’08

We stopped Joy in the hall to ask for her assessment of the conference on the last day of sessions.

Why is everyone so … nice?

I admit it: This is my first ILTA conference. Mind you, I’ve been to several conferences before, some bigger, many smaller. But what strikes me at this conference is how nice people are. Everyone. Attendees, consultants,  vendors, staff and everyone else just seems happy to be here.

I’d been warned, but seeing it in action confirms it. There’s an energy here that comes from the excitement of new ideas and the enthusiasm of everyone in the conference center and exhibit hall. I wonder if other first-timers feel the same.

Matt Miller, Alexis Lind, Stewart Tong and Daniel Lim

 

Lorraine Scanlin and Barbara Collins

 

Helpful at the Ask ILTA desk

Video: From an ILTA first-timer

Just before the vendor event on Monday, we spoke to Martin Rivera, a first-time ILTA conference attendee. Martin is the network administrator for a small firm in Houston, Boyar & Miller. Here’s what he had to say about his first day of conference.

First-timers, consider yourself ready

From the number of people who attended tonight’s conference orientation, you’d think half the attendees of conference had never been before. Well, they’re prepared now. Bill Mertes and Michele Gossmeyer did a great job setting the stage for what will surely be an enriching conference.

Or maybe it was the free first-timer ILTA survival bags? Hmmm.

What's inside these things, anyway?

Business cards, check. Jogging shoes, check.

We really don’t mind if you walk it, but if you’re really competitive, our Fun Run on Monday morning is a great way to kick off conference. The trail is smooth, the weather won’t be muggy yet, and you’ll feel energized and focused for the entire conference.

Plus it’ll help you make some room for the crab cakes.

Who: You, your colleagues and guests. Whether you’re a serious runner or a casual walker – everyone
is invited!
What: 5k run or 3k walk around the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center property.
When: Monday, August 25th – 6:30 a.m. sharp.
Where: Each run and walk course will be marked along the jogging trail around the perimeter of the
property. The participants will gather at the Convention Center Entrance at the north end of the Gaylord.

 

 

 

 

What not to wear to conference

You’re thinking Dallas in August will be hot, and you’re right; it is hot … outside. Thankfully, most of conference will be held inside a nicely air-conditioned, heavily carpeted conference center. In fact, you might consider bringing a sweater or light cardigan. You know how those meeting rooms can be chilly.

Aside from that, please don’t pack your fancy work clothes! Casual attire is appropriate for all activities at conference.

The evening socials do not require any fancy garb, BUT for our “big” gala on Tuesday evening, ILTA’s Asian Port of Call, many of us will dress up for the event. At Monday evening’s exhibit hall opening, ILTA’s “Vendor Grand Prix,” many of the exhibitors will decorate their booths and wear costumes in recognition of the theme.

A jumpsuit like this would not be inappropriate on Monday night.

If you wish to don your racing attire, you’ll fit right in.