PPB December 2017

perspectives Paul Bellantone, CAE President And CEO Be Assured Of PPAI’s Commitment To Your Safety And Security “ T he PPAI Expo—the glue that holds the industry together.” That description, given by a PPAI member in 2016, was remembered after the tragic event in Las Vegas earlier this year. The message I share now is the result of our leadership’s reflection on The PPAI Expo and PPAI’s long-standing commitment to safety. In response to this fall’s event in Las Vegas, it is important for you to know that Promotional Products Association International takes your safety seriously. Since 1903, PPAI has focused on creating and maintaining a safe and secure meetings and events environment for our attendees, staff and exhibitors. At The PPAI Expo, and all of PPAI’s meetings and events, the safety of attendees and guests is and always will be of utmost importance. Our staff is thoroughly trained and prepared for each event. Strategic planning with each venue begins far in advance to develop and maintain safety protocols that allow high-quality and confident business opportunities in a safe and inviting environment. All of this begins with a proactive and forward-thinking PPAI team. In May, prior to the tragedy in Las Vegas, the PPAI Board of Directors, steered by industry leaders, resolved to reaffirm PPAI’s long-standing commitment to safety at live events. This resolution directs PPAI to continue to institute and execute policies and procedures designed to mitigate known or reasonably foreseeable risks to the health and safety of those who participate in PPAI live events, including the continued employment and assignment of competent PPAI staff, the hiring of appropriate security personnel, and the execution of reasonable registration and admission processes. As a member of the Exhibition and Meetings Safety and Security Initiative’s (EMSSI) Industry Security Council since December 2016, we frequently collaborate with a large group of stakeholders who represent all aspects of the exhibition and convention center industry. Through this involvement, our team provides and receives important developments and ideas for an array of best practice safety guidelines and opportunities. Our commitment to safety remains a priority. No individual, corporation, organization or government can anticipate or prevent every situation or scenario. However, PPAI remains committed to preparing and implementing safety protocols designed to protect those who attend, exhibit, work, visit or participate in any PPAI live event. PPAI has a strategic goal of transforming The PPAI Expo from great to extraordinary, and our commitment to safety is but one ever-present foundation that will advance that objective. We know how much you value this industry and The PPAI Expo, and we thank you in advance for your investment in both. We value the trust you place in us when you attend our events. We look forward to seeing you January 14-18 at The PPAI Expo in Las Vegas. PPAI remains committed to preparing and implementing safety protocols designed to protect those who attend, exhibit, work, visit or participate in any PPAI live event. 4 | DECEMBER 2017 |