See You in Seattle 
Contributed by Noel Ma
As we look ahead to the upcoming MISA conference in Seattle, Washington, from September 29 to October 1, we also look forward into the future. Join us this year as we look at some new and exciting trends that are occurring in travel information as well as the uses of interactive displays in visitor centres, the future of travel information technology and also wireless internet. All of these exciting topics are presented by professionals who have done extensive research or are experts in these fields. Get ready to ask lots of questions or be enlightened with new ideas for consideration.
Signage is also of utmost importance and we are once again provided with updates from the FHWA along with a look at what the states of Washington and Oregon are doing in terms of signing, and their logo and wayfinding programs. This year, we will also be learning from our Canadian neighbours in terms of what is happening with their Tourist Oriented Directional Signs.
Also for this year, are you looking for new ways to build statewide support for priority projects? Oregon's Transportation/Tourism Task Force (TTTF) began as a small group of creative leaders and grew quickly to a collaboration of 17 public and private organizations, gaining the Governor's attention that lead to his Executive Order formalizing the Task Force. Expanding the usual scope of transportation/tourism partners, the TTTF is making progress, and making history. Members of the Task Force will share their expectations, challenges, and experiences, lessons learned and alliances formed. Careful - the enthusiasm is contagious and you may also be considering a task force in your State as well.
These are just some of the exciting topics that are all part of this year’s MISA conference held at the Red Lion Hotel on 5th Avenue. We will also have the opportunity to learn from our partners in safety rest areas as we are joining with the National Safety Rest Area Conference occurring simultaneously on October 1 and continuing through Oct 3.
Learning without fun is never possible at a MISA conference. Prepare to meet and network with fantastic people from across North America involved in motorist information and services provision, and to see Seattle from both “above and below” with dinner at the famous Space Needle and a cruise on the Argosy.
So, will we “SEE U” in “SEATTLE?”
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