Over 650 Individuals Gather in the Pacific Northwest for HFTP's 2006 Annual Convention & Tradeshow
AUSTIN, TX; Offering a wide range of educational opportunities and networking events, the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals’ (HFTP) Annual Convention & Tradeshow was once again a great success. The convention had over 650 individuals registered for the conference held October 18-21 at the Westin Bayshore, Vancouver in Vancouver, B.C. Canada.
The education program offered five different education tracks, including Club, Hotel, General, Technology and International, covering topics such as strategic planning, centralized vs. decentralized accounting, legal issues for the hospitality industry, data security and public speaking. In addition to the industry-relevant sessions, the convention featured the dynamic speakers Vince Poscente, CSP, CPAE; Bob Davies; and Michael Kerr. All three are professional speakers who offered entertaining and meaningful presentations.
The Annual Convention was a great experience," said Martha Larimore, controller at the Springfield Golf & Country Club Inc. "It enabled me to attend some informative sessions, and network with others that understand the challenges in our industry."
"The HFTP Annual Convention and Tradeshow in Vancouver this year was the best that I have ever attended," said Mark Pate MBA, CHTP, CHAE, assistant controller for Highpointe Hotel Corp. "The hotel location was excellent, the sessions were very informative and the extra activities were most enjoyable. I especially benefited from the 3 general sessions and all the principles that were taught. I feel the long trip was well worth the effort and I am already looking forward to the 2007 convention in Florida next year."
"I had a great time learning about hot topics facing our industry today - from the update to the Uniform System of Accounts, to accounting for Condo Hotels, to the battle between Centralized and Decentralized Accounting - and enjoyed networking with friends and colleagues in the process," said Jerald Trieber, CPA, CHAE, director of internal audit for Hersha Hospitality Management. "The convention is a great way for us to come together to share our knowledge and passion for the industry!"
The tradeshow, held Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon, featured exhibitors representing companies that offer a mix of hospitality industry services, such as a variety of software, insurance, tax consultants, payroll services, human resources, high-speed Internet, Internet marketing, audio-visual equipment and financial management solution providers.
"We are happy with the show's exposure and professionalism; we plan to exhibit each year," said Gregory Wilhelm, vice president of hotel system sales for Visual One Systems, a 2006 tradeshow exhibitor.
"HFTP has provided invaluable guidance to me as well as practical information and exposure to relevant hospitality vendors on the tradeshow floor," said Mark A. Gage, director of Information Technology for the Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa.
The sessions kept attendees busy during the day, and at night they were treated to social events focused on networking and fun. On Thursday, October 19, attendees had a full evening of entertainment at Vancouver’s Telus World of Science. After cocktails and a dinner buffet, attendees explored the museum’s five interactive galleries and had the opportunity to watch a movie in the OMNIMAX Theater.
Friday night, October 20, was the President’s Evening dinner and dance. Traditionally a formal event, the dress code was changed to business casual to create a more relaxed atmosphere. A short presentation was given by outgoing HFTP president Ralph Miller, CA, CBV, CHA, CHAE, now serving as HFTP immediate past president, and incoming HFTP President, Agnes DeFranco, Ed.D., CHAE. The evening was topped off with dancing to live music provided by the band The Oceanairs.
Other highlights included the Opening Session on Thursday morning when HFTP honors were presented. Before the start of the general session, the 2006 HFTP Paragon Award recipient, Richard Braa, CHAE was recognized, as well as the HFTP New Member Sponsor of the Year, Kenneth Lidstone, MBA.
HFTP would like to thank the following sponsors:
- Anybill
- Aptech Computer Systems
- Gatekeeper Business Solutions, Inc.
- Hospitality Upgrade
- Hotel Information Systems - A Division of Softbrands
- MembersFirst
The 2007 HFTP Annual Convention and Tradeshow will be held October 17-20 at the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront in Jacksonville, Fla. Refer to the HFTP web site (www.hftp.org) for more information.
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