IAPHC: The Graphic Professionals’ Resource Network

IAPHC INTERNATIONAL CHAIRMAN’S DECEMBER MESSAGE

Bill Orr

ANCHOR’S AWAY!

I recently returned from Fort Lauderdale, FL where the Executive Officers and I hammered out what we feel is a realistic budget for the 2004-2005 year. We had to take a serious look at where our income and expenses are and make business-like decisions accordingly. I want to sincerely thank Kevin, Howard, Norm and John for their tenacity and insight during this process. We really worked as a team to get this done. Though this proposed budget still has to be scrutinized by the Ways and Means committee and then approved at the mid-year meeting in Atlanta, I feel confident that our recommendations will be accepted. The most notable change is a 50% increase in the Marketing budget, from $10,000 to $15,000. This has also been a long overlooked area but is now our main focus, critical for our survival.

Though that Saturday was a long and grueling one, Friday and Sunday were very enjoyable. I took a couple extra days of vacation to be able to enjoy the International Boat Show. I only wish I would have had more time. But on Sunday, we got to see the most beautiful ship of all—the Celebrity Infinity! Our convention co-chair Arthur Mole had made arrangements for us to tour our next convention’s floating home.

Thanks, Arthur! I can’t even begin to tell you how exciting that was for us all!

The ship was only docked at Pier 12 for the day. Arthur made a point to “interview” some of the passengers that had just completed their cruise. For many of them, it had been their first one and they were already making plans to take another one. Those passengers that were going to be just starting their cruise were also noticeably excited. And so were we!

We were allowed to board with our tour guide Clem Galindo, National Incentives Sales Manager, and were greeted by a waiter with a tray full of champagne. We got to see the meeting rooms, the grand Celebrity theatre where we will have Opening and Closing Ceremonies, as well as the Gallery Awards, the main dining room, the pool area, and several lounges. We also each got to see our actual cabins and the hospitality room which were all much bigger than I thought they would be.

Clem treated us to an incredible lunch: smoked salmon appetizer, burgundy mushroom soup, salad, rolls, choice of filet mignon or baked fish, and a very sinful dessert. If this is any indication of the food we’ll be eating on our cruise, I suggest we all start our diets now so we’re ready by next summer. I hear the average person gains 10 pounds on a cruise and now I see why.

This is a trip that you simply CANNOT MISS! You are also invited to bring your family members, co-workers, boss, neighbors, vendors, and anybody else you can think of and they will also pay the same low rate. The Cruiseman, Arthur Mole and his committee have many wonderful things planned. Check out the price and registration details at www.cruiseshipcenters.com/iaphc. The ship is filling up fast – sign up now so you are assured of a spot. Be there!

Yours in Craftsman–Ship,
Captain Bill Orr
International Chairman