In November 2014, about 12,000 attendees descended on Orlando for the 2014 ASHA Convention (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association). Tammy Berger, director, exhibits, of the Rockville, Md.-based association, says that attendees came to the conference to earn continuing education credits and to network, but adds, "It didn't hurt that the weather was pretty nice. Even for us as planners, it's nice to get some fresh air," Berger says.
Private event at Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter™
"We surveyed attendees and got feedback on weather, the proximity of all the hotels and the ease of getting in and out of Orlando. The West Hall of the Orange County Convention Center was used for the event and many of the exhibitors and members hosted events in the meeting rooms at the Hyatt Regency Orlando, a short walk from the Center, adds Berger. "It's easy to get around Orlando. People like to walk to Pointe Orlando. In fact our ASHA Foundation Fundraiser Reception was held at Cuba Libre at The Pointe on International Drive and the ASHA-PAC Reception was held at Minus 5 Ice Bar." The private, closing-night party for nearly 1,600 was held at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™–Hogsmeade at Universal Studios Florida®. Of the final night soiree, Berger says, "Some of the surveys came back with 'What are you going to do to top Harry Potter?"
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