Association Manager
California Association of Joint Powers Authorities
Sacramento, Calif.
Describe your event.
The annual fall conference and training seminar for the California Association of Joint Powers Authorities (CAJPA) is a three-day educational program that includes a golf tournament, a 77-booth exhibit hall, 40 breakout sessions, two receptions, two luncheons, and three breakfasts. This annual program is an educational opportunity for those who work for or provide services for California’s risk management joint powers authorities. Due to its size—more than 1,000 attendees each year—this conference is held at three South Lake Tahoe hotels: Harrah’s, Harvey’s and Embassy Suites.
Why did you decide to host the meeting in Lake Tahoe?
CAJPA will hold its 25th consecutive annual conference this year in South Lake Tahoe. CAJPA members don’t want to go anywhere else.
What surprised you the most about Lake Tahoe?
This will be my third conference for this organization, and what surprised me the most was the friendliness of the people I work with at the hotels and the commitment of the returning registrants to having this event in Tahoe every year.
What did your attendees seem to enjoy the most?
Tahoe is what it has always been: a perfect place. Just outside your door is some of the most magnificent scenery you can find anywhere in the world. It’s laid-back, yet there are things to do. The air smells great outside, and the attitude of the community is the best.
Was anybody particularly helpful?
If you are ever lucky enough to work with Krissy Lee at Harrah’s/Harvey’s you will never forget it. Her boss Steve Lowe is an absolute delight, too, as are all of the staff members who work on the event with me.
What were some of the unique off-site venues that you used?
Chart House Restaurant, Edgewood Golf Course, Lake Tahoe Golf Course, and many others.
What local suppliers did you utilize?
Connie at Memory Makers in Reno is absolutely fabulous with decorations and theme and will get my business every year. Teresa DiJoseph is my contact at GES Exposition Services. FedEx Kinkos in Reno did a great job on materials.
How does Lake Tahoe compare to other destinations where you have hosted meetings?
It’s so different. Breathe deep, smell the pines, look at the lake, and think about the most beautiful color blue you have ever seen—that’s what you get in Tahoe.
Would you return?
CAJPA is currently signing the contract for 2011.
Do you have any advice for other planners who might bring a meeting to Lake Tahoe?
Those who are against smoking will not want to be on the Nevada side; the smoke in the casinos is the only negative comment I receive from conference attendees.
You have to think about the time of year you go to Tahoe. Could it snow in September?
Yes.
Could there be a lack of snow in January?
Yes. If you are a flexible planner, you’ll make it work even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
