Change of Venue for Florida OH Conference

Well I just received an the following Email from Monica today telling me after all my efforts that she has pull the plug on having the 2007 Florida OH Conference in the Tampa Bay area and is moving it to Orlando. I feel I've been let down and doubt I'll volunteer in helping stage another event for OH. But after spending my many hours and millage. Plus putting my Name out there in Talking with Vendors & Sponsors. This is a Big Disappointment! Mike ************************************************************* Michael, We are moving the conference to Orlando, as I have gotten a sponsor for that area and had not been able to get one for your area - I will be looking for a hotel in that area. Our sponsor is looking at a May date, but nothing will be published until all contracts are signed and sealed. Thanks for all of your help. Since your surgeon is doing a cruise, I will not go forward with those plans. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Monica Ganz, Ph. D. Director of Events and Support Groups 1-866-957-4636 ext. 385 Visit www.ObesityHelpEvents.com

Mike, I'm sorry to hear that plans had to be changed after all the time & effort you've put into planning the '07 Conference. I hope you won't let this deter you and that you'll stay active with our Florida board. We have so few men that it is nice to be able to tell newbies to check in here, that we DO have some guys around, too. I hope to see you at the next conference, where ever it is held! Vickie J.

Hi Michael, Thank you for your hard work and dedication all the same. Kristen

Mike, I am so sorry that the plug was pulled that way. I know you have put a lot of hard work and effort into planning this event. I want to personally say Thank you for everything that you have done to arrange a great event. Did you know they were looking at changing the venue or was it just dropped on you like a bombshell.? If that happened I think it stinks but please don't leave us! Thanks again for you hard work! Kat

It was a total shock as I was lead just recently a week before that everything was progressing for Tampa Bay in a Personal Phone call. Then just an Email. I will be here but unknown if I'll attend another OH Conference as the past two were exactly alike and most attendees were Post-Op so why an hour or so about getting the WLSurgeries and fighting insurances. And mainly covering just the RNY instead of all surgeries. Plus one big group instead of break-out groups such as a Mens & Women's seperate group topics. And several national vendors instead of just local to the area of the conference locations. PLUS Several Surgeon's both WLS & Plastics but not limited to them but also Primary's and Insurance Company Reps, for the entire state as we attend from all over the State of Florida and some from out-of-state too. Plus now I've had to cancel the Band for which I was having to play at the Prom Dance we were playing for the Evening after the Conference. So OH did my story in their Magazine, I've become an OH Leader (which they now charge to become but there's perks like attending any conferences for free) starting a Support Group shortly. But the only thing on my mind now like David in Richmond VA. is to maybe plan my own conference without OH. Which David has Twice a year now with much more fun, learning and excitement than the usual OH Conference. Thank You everyone for your words of encouragements and caring. O'll move on and recover from the shock. And I'll be here and will see you around the state at Support Meetings & Gatherings. Mike

Mike, I'm so sorry this happened to you. I've read your previous posts and know you have worked so hard. Our area was "dumped" before for a conference as well. It really does stink! Look forward to meeting you at one of the support meetings. I'm planning a trip to Tampa in February. When is the next meeting? Best wishes, Deb