Waves of Wonder

by Rosemarie Reyes, Chair 2000 Summit

Well, if you were holding your breath and are slightly blue, you can let it all out. The 2000 Summit was a resounding success. It was a gathering of spirited professionals in an environment conducive to increasing and contributing knowledge. Networking the old-fashioned way, yet finding new ways in which to work together.

There is so much to tell, let’s start at the beginning. On Wednesday, over our marketplace floor, a veritable hummmm rose above the tables that housed bent heads, deep in discussions of commerce, changes, and future. In the next room, a powerhouse called Desi Williamson woke the dormant masses with his inspirational message… “how can we make it better?” As people in attendance can attest, the air was supercharged, at least for the 1 ½ hours Desi addressed the crowd.

Thursday morning’s General Session began auspiciously enough with our distinguished panelists representing all types of transportation.They discussed their individual company’s ideologies and their focus for the future. Dean of NYU’s School of Hospitality, Laila Rach, challenged the panelists and the audience to think above and beyond the staid equations of marketing and customer service.

Our well attended breakout sessions provided a concentrated space for attendees to increase their tourism “know-how” and address the issues important to them with a diverse group of guest panelists. There was evidence many markets have changed and the way we provide our services must change with them.

The closing General Session provided a great opportunity for the membership to give and solicit advice, comments, and suggestions for the association. The association board of directors and committee chairs felt much ground was gained towards a fully realized RSA. In some cases, issues already under discussion were fortified by the input of the attendees.

All in all, a great two days, topped off with a fabulous Awards Gala like only Joanne DeSantis can throw, complete with a dreamy venue, elegant service, and enough comic relief to spare. Congratulations to all the award winners, official and non-official!

I know we spent two days at the Grand Hyatt in thank-you over-drive, but I must mention again:
Summit committee members: Best group of people anyone could have worked with.
Our generous sponsors: Your support with all these efforts is unwavering.
Grand Hyatt: A great partnership.
RSA board and committee chairs and their members: You kept giving - thanks.
Association Headquarters: Excellent administrative support and on-site operations - flawless.
And to our regular and associate members: What can I say? You came, you saw, and you conquered New York. Thanks for your incredible support.  See you next year!