ISA NEWS RELEASE
Contact: Jennifer Infantino
(919) 990-9287
jinfantino@isa.org
ISA EXPO 2008 Confirms Event Status After Hurricane Ike Hits Houston
Research Triangle Park, NC (18 September 2008) – ISA has confirmed that ISA EXPO 2008 will be held as scheduled 14-16 October at the Reliant Center in Houston, Texas.
Reliant Center has been serving as a command station for FEMA and search and rescue groups from around the nation in the wake of Hurricane Ike, which hit the Texas coast on 13 September. Government and Reliant Center officials confirmed today that the exhibit halls and relevant meeting rooms will be open and operational for ISA EXPO.
"Houston is looking forward to welcoming ISA to the community again. I know there may be some reluctance to attend this year’s event due to Hurricane Ike, however, Houston needs you to attend ISA EXPO in Houston this year more than ever. Many of the employees of the hospitality community have been or will be financially impacted by Hurricane Ike and are in need of help. Without the convention, their income is reduced. Your attendance at ISA EXPO 2008 would be considered an act of kindness and true support to the community of Houston," said Greg Ortale, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau.
ISA plans to dedicate its Tuesday evening reception as a fundraising event to help rebuild the city of Houston. The reception, which will be held on the exhibit floor from 5:30 – 7 p.m. on 14 October, will bring thousands of exhibitors and attendees together in a festive atmosphere and will raise money to help Houston rebuild from the storm.
"ISA is humbled and grateful to be a part of Houston’s rebuilding process during this difficult time," said ISA Executive Director and CEO Patrick Gouhin. "We hope that bringing thousands of professionals to the Houston area will stimulate their economy and revitalize the spirit of innovation and perseverance that we’ve always admired about the city. We’re hoping that ISA EXPO can provide an atmosphere for professionals to come together, spend time with colleagues, and focus on the bright future of the automation profession and the city of Houston."
"Long after the media has finished broadcasting the disaster scenarios, we will need to have a vibrant and strong convention and tradeshow business. Our hotels and restaurants are ready to serve - please do not deny us this opportunity. We can’t wait to see ISA EXPO back in Houston," said Ortale.
Click here to learn more about Hurricane Relief efforts at ISA EXPO 2008
For more information about ISA EXPO 2008, visit www.isa.org/expo or call (919) 549-8411.
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