Conference & Expo

Many laughs in Minneapolis

Why you WILL have fun at the 2007 Annual Conference & Recreational Sports Expo

Judson Laipply

Yes, there will be educational sessions, roundtables, and meetings. Yes, you will learn a lot and network with colleagues. But you also get to have some fun during the four days of the 2007 Annual Conference & Recreational Sports Exposition, April 18-21 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Just take a look at what’s offered:

Setting the tone will be keynote speaker and “inspirational comedian” Judson Laipply. A former cruise ship and camp employee, certified aerobics instructor, college instructor, poet, part-time auctioneer, and weekly columnist, Laipply is best known as the brains (and moves) behind “The Evolution of Dance,” the number one “Most Viewed” video on YouTube.com with more than 31 million views. His Wednesday night presentation at the Opening General Session is guaranteed to make you laugh while pondering the inevitability of change in our lives.

The NIRSA Dance Party on Thursday will run 9 p.m.-2 a.m., and offers something for everyone. The site is The Depot, a beautifully restored Milwaukee Road train station in downtown Minneapolis. Transportation will be provided to and from the event. The dance itself will take place in the Rink Room, a very large facility that in the winter months has—you guessed it—a skating rink. A DJ will provide music throughout the night. Attached to the Rink Room are the Winter Garden and the Great Hall, the restored ticket lobby of the station. An impressive room, the Great Hall will be a place for attendees to sit and visit with colleagues while enjoying the music at a lower volume. Food and beverages will be provided for all three rooms.

Another alternative for Thursday night will be the ice skating party from 9 p.m. to midnight. This will take place on the campus of the University of Minnesota at Ridder Arena, home of the Golden Gopher Women's Hockey Team. Transportation to and from the arena will be provided. A brand new facility, Ridder is an outstanding skating venue. Skates will be provided for attendees, with food and beverages available for purchase. Instructors can assist beginners (and those who don't think they are). There will be other activities as well, so keep an eye out for more details.