Washington State Convention & Trade Center
September 20-23, 2009
Seattle, WA
Seattle, WA
Sometimes the difference between ordinary and AMAZING is where it happens...
Seattle is anything but ordinary. It's a place where bike messengers share elevators with world-renowned researchers; where fishermen have lunch alongside top surgeons. It's a city where the extraordinary is commonplace and commonplace is anything but. And if you look closely, you just might discover that in Seattle there are amazing things happening all around you.
Ten Things you Must See and Do in Seattle
Assembly Location
Accommodations & Hotel Reservations
Traveling to Seattle
Seattle Weather
Downtown Seattle
Preliminary Program Schedule
Planning Committee
International Attendees
Seattle Fun Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact us!
10 Things you Must See & Do in Seattle
You can't go to Paris without stopping by the Eiffel Tower. And you can't visit Seattle without checking out the view from the world-famous Space Needle. Here's a handy "must do" list for first-time visitors and those who want to be sure they've done everything (it may take more than one trip).
1. The Space Needle (www.spaceneedle.com)
A 41-second elevator ride takes you up 520 feet to the observation deck of the Space Needle, built for the 1962 World's Fair. Enjoy a meal at SkyCity, the restaurant at the top that revolves 360° while you dine.
2. Pike Place Market (www.pikeplacemarket.org)
Seattle's Pike Place Market is the granddaddy of farmers' markets. Today, it's a major tourist attraction with 200 businesses operating year-round, 190 craftspeople and 120 farmer booths - plus street performers and musicians. Flowers by the bucketful, flying fish, fresh pastries and fruit, handmade cheeses, local honey, wine, an assortment of restaurants, import goods, antiques, collectibles and lots of surprises are around every corner.
3. Ferries (www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries)
Traveling by ferry is a state of mind as much as a means of transportation to some of the Puget Sound's most historic and scenic sites. Views of the Olympic and Cascade mountains, the Seattle cityscape and the green shorelines will draw you out onto the deck to feel the salt breeze on your face. The state ferry system takes passengers and their vehicles from Seattle and nearby departure points to Vashon Island, the Kitsap Peninsula, the San Juan Islands and Canada. For privately operated ferries, see the Sightseeing & Tours (page 35) and Visitors Services/Travel & Transportation (page 120) listings in this guide.
4. Seattle Aquarium (www.seattleaquarium.org)
Meet Alki, the sea otter pup born at the Aquarium. Walk under the water in a glass dome as bluntnose sixgill sharks and other Elliott Bay creatures swim all around you. Touch a sea anemone. Learn about the lives of salmon at the world's first aquarium-based salmon ladder. Marvel at the impossibly bright-colored coral reef fish. And don't forget to wave to the giant Pacific octopus.
5. The Seattle Waterfront (ci.seattle.wa.us/tour/water.htm)
A bustling collection of attractions, restaurants and shopping, as well as starting points for ferries, cruise ships, the Victoria Clipper and Argosy boat tours are located here. Feed the seagulls at the statue of Ivar Haglund in front of Ivar's Acres of Clams, stroll by the fountains on the wooden piers of Waterfront Park, admire the view or shop for souvenirs.
6. Woodland Park Zoo (www.zoo.org)
See more than 1,000 animals of 300 different species, from elephants and gorillas to piranhas and penguins, in naturalistic exhibits at the Woodland Park Zoo. Drop by at scheduled feeding times and talk with the people who care for the animals.
7. Bill Speidel's Underground Tour (www.undergroundtour.com)
After the Great Seattle Fire of 1889, the city was rebuilt over the top of the ruins. This guided tour takes visitors through the hidden subterranean passages that once were the main roadways and storefronts of old downtown Seattle and tells stories of the frontier people who lived and worked there.
8. The Seattle Public Library (www.spl.org)
Designed by world-renowned Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, the award-winning glass and steel structure of the new Central Library makes the building seem a little off-kilter and translucent - allowing passersby on the street to look in.
9. Tillicum Village/Blake Island (www.tillicumvillage.com)
A short, narrated cruise takes you to an island village, where you'll feast on salmon cooked in the authentic Native American way. A stage show of traditional dances and stories entertains and teaches you about the people who lived in the Northwest first.
10. Ride the Ducks of Seattle (www.ridetheducksofseattle.com)
Tour Seattle by land and water on a WWII amphibious landing craft. This 90-minute adventure tour will have you "quacking up" through the streets of Seattle. You'll see the major sights of the Emerald City on land before you head out to the funky Fremont neighborhood where you'll splash into Lake Union
Assembly Location
The 2009 AOPA National Assembly will be held at the
Washington State Convention & Trade Center (WSCTC)
800 Convention Place
Seattle, WA 98101
Telephone (206) 694-5030
Fax (206) 694-5398
Accommodations & Hotel Reservations
AOPA has reserved a block of rooms at the Sheraton Seattle, which is less than a block from the convention center.
Sheraton Seattle
1400 6th Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98101
United States
(206) 621-9000
Located in the city’s vibrant core, the AAA Four Diamond award-winning Sheraton Seattle Hotel is a gateway to all the sights, sounds and experiences of the fabulous Pacific Northwest. The best of Seattle is just outside our front doors – from exciting nightlife, gourmet restaurants, world-class shopping and of course, the heart of the financial and business district.
The hotel is conveniently situated nearby historic Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum, the Space Needle, Experience Music Project and a host of other exciting attractions. See a show at the Fifth Avenue Theater or the Paramount Theater. Experience the opera or ballet at McCaw Hall. Enjoy the Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall. All are just a short walk from the hotel.
The hotel rates at The Seattle Sheraton Hotel for AOPA Assembly attendees are $200 for luxury suites (single or double occupancy). RESERVE EARLY. HOTEL WILL LIKELY SELL-OUT OVER THE DATES OF THE AOPA ASSEMBLY. Please be sure your reservation request reaches The Sheraton prior to August 10, 2009, when any remaining rooms will be released. There is NO GUARANTEE that rooms will be available at the Assembly convention rate. Rates quoted here are on a space-available basis only. Once the AOPA Assembly block of rooms is sold out, which may be earlier than August 10, 2009, there is no guarantee that rooms will be available nor that they will be available at the AOPA Assembly rate.
Seattle Weather
September Average Daily Maximum Temperature in Seattle
Fahrenheit: 69.1
Celsius: 20.6
September Average Daily Minimum Temperature in Seattle
Fahrenheit: 52.0
Celsius: 11.1
September Average Monthly Precipitation in Seattle
Inches: 1.88
Centimeters: 4.78
Traveling to Seattle
From East
Take Interstate 90 to Interstate 5 North and use the Madison Street Exit. Turn left onto Madison Street, and then turn right onto 6th Avenue. Proceed for 4 blocks and the hotel will be on the right.
From North
Take Interstate 5 South and use the Union Street Exit. Proceed for 1 block to Sixth Avenue and then take a right onto Sixth Avenue. Continue 1 block and the hotel will be on the right.
From Seattle-Tacoma International Airport
Take Interstate 5 North and exit at Seneca Street (use the left lane off the exit ramp). Turn right onto Sixth Avenue. The hotel entrance is on the right between Union Street and Pike Street.
Downtown Seattle
Preliminary Program Schedule
(As of 9/25/08)
Sunday, September 20
| 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Registration Open |
| 8:00 AM – Noon | Manufacturers Workshops |
| 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Exhibitor Set up |
| 1:00 – 5:00 PM | Manufacturers Workshops |
| 6:00 – 7:30 PM | Welcome Reception |
Monday, September 21
| 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Registration Open |
| 8:00 – 10:00 AM | Education |
| 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Exhibit Hall Open |
| 2:00 – 5:00 PM | Education |
Tuesday, September 22
| 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Registration Open |
| 8:00 – 10:00 AM | Education |
| 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Exhibit Hall Open |
| 2:00 – 5:00 PM | Education |
Wednesday, September 23
| 8:00 AM – Noon | Registration Open |
| 8:00 AM – Noon | Education |
| 8:00 AM – Noon | Exhibit Hall Open |
| 1:00 – 5:00 PM | Manufacturers Workshops |
Planning Committee
2009 AOPA National Assembly Advisory Committee Roster
Russell Hornfisher (Chairman)
Becker Orthopedic Appliance
11645 LeHigh Court
Plymouth, MI 48170
Phone: (734) 673-8366
Fax: (734) 414-9460
E-mail: hornfisher@aol.com
Michael Burton (Exhibits Chair)
Florida Brace Corporation
750 Bridgeview Road
Langhorne, PA 19053
Phone: (215) 752-1402
Fax: (215) 752-5759
E-mail: mburton@flabrace.com
Meghan Eilbeck
Freedom Innovations
30 Fairbanks, Suite 114
Irvine, CA 92618
Phone: (949) 672-0032
Fax: (949) 672-0084
E-mail: meilbeck@freedom-innovations.com
Chris Fairman, CPO
Great Lakes P&O
3075 W. Clark Rd, Suite 100
Ypsilanti, MI 48197-1103
Phone: (734) 528-5200
Fax: (734) 528-5260
E-Mail: cfairman@provide.net
Thomas Gavin, CO
BioConcepts Inc.
100 Tower Drive, Ste 101
Burr Ridge, IL 60521
Phone: (630) 986-0007
Fax: (630) 986-0151
E-Mail: tomgavin@ix.netcom.com
Michelle Hall, CPO, FAAOP
Gillette Lifetime
435 Phalen Boulevard
St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: (651) 638-4735
E-mail: m_jhall@yahoo.com
Dennis Janisse, C.Ped.
National Pedorthic Services Inc.
Medical College of Wisconsin
7283 W. Appleton Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53216
Phone: (414) 438-1211
Fax: (414) 438-1051
E-mail: Janisse@execpc.com
Tabilyn King
Ossur
27412 Laguna Hills Drive
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Phone: (949) 362-3883
Fax: (949) 360-3923
E-Mail: tking@ossur.com
Don Pierson, CO, C.Ped.
Arizona AFO, Inc.
1611 E. Main Street
Mesa, AZ 85203
Phone: (480) 222-1580
Fax: (480) 461-5187
E-Mail: don@arizonaaft.com
Bradley N. Ruhl, AOPA 2008 President
Otto Bock Health Care
Two Carlson Parkway, Suite 100
Minneapolis, MN 55447
Phone: (800) 328-4058 X5120
Fax: (800) 926-2549
E-mail: brad.ruhl@ottobock.com
Donald Shurr, CPO
American Prosthetics & Orthotics
01094 JPP University of Iowa, Hosp.
Iowa City, IA 52242
Phone: (319) 356-2420
Fax: (319) 356-2783
E-mail: dons@apoinc.com
Patrick Thomas
Ohio Willow Wood
15441 Scioto Darby Road
Mt Sterling, OH 43143
Phone: 740-869-1164 x 144
Fax: 740-869-4374
E-mail: patt@owwco.com
Fran Varner-Jenkins
Fillauer Companies Inc.
2710 Amnicola Hwy
Chattanooga, TN 37406
Phone: (423) 624-0946
Fax: (423) 624-1402
E-mail: fjenkins@fillauer.com
Cathie Welge
Alps South Corporation
2895 42nd Avenue North
St. Petersburg, FL 33714
Phone: (727) 528-8566 ext. 311
Fax: (727) 522-6982
E-mail: cathie@easyliner.com
AOPA Staff Contact:
Tina M. Moran, CMP
Phone: (571) 431-0808
Fax: (571) 431-0899
E-mail: tmoran@AOPAnet.org
International Attendees
AOPA welcomes all international attendees to the 2009 AOPA National Assembly—the oldest and largest meeting for the O&P profession in the United States. The AOPA National Assembly features the largest and most comprehensive trade show of products and services for the orthotic and prosthetic profession. You’ll hear from top notch O&P practitioners, academics and researchers from around the world about the most up to date clinical techniques, component technologies, treatments and procedures. We hope you can attend!
The process for international visitors getting to the United States can be a bit overwhelming. In order to assist International attendees, AOPA has provided some useful information on entering the United States.
• Visa Wavier Program (VWP) -
Citizens of the following countries do not need a U.S. visa for business or tourism visits of less than 90 days, but must have a machine-readable passport. Participating VWP Countries include: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Click here for more information: travel.state.gov/visa/temp/temp_1305.html
• Request an International Attendee Letter from AOPA to attend the 2009 AOPA National Assembly. E-mail: ekennedy@AOPAnet.org
• How to obtain a U.S. Visa. travel.state.gov/visa/visa_1750.html
• To download multilingual fact sheets and videos click here http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/interapp/editorial/editorial_0435.xml
If you need additional information please contact Erin Kennedy at ekennedy@AOPAnet.org or (571) 431-0876
Seattle Fun Facts
- Seattle sells more sunglasses per capita than any other major city in the nation!
- The Space Needle is fastened to its foundation with 72 bolts, each of which is 9m (30 feet) long - must be a record.
- The world's first espresso cart was established below the Seattle Monorail terminal at Westlake Center in 1980.
- In
1981 the Wave, a ubiquitous sight at sporting events around the globe,
was invented by a University of Washington
cheerleader at a UW vs. Stanford football game at
UW’s Husky Stadium. By the way, the Huskies won 42 – 31.
- The 2001 Seattle Mariners won 116 games tying the 1906 Chicago Cubs for the most games won in a season.
- The Happy Face was designed by a Seattle advertising agency in 1966. (No, Forrest Gump did not invent it.)
- Dale Chihuly, Tacoma native, world renowned glass artist and founder of the prestigious Pilchuck Glass School, was the first person to be proclaimed a "Living National Treasure" by President George Bush in 1992.
- Built in 1950, the Mercer Island Floating Bridge (now I-90) was the first floating bridge in the world.
- Kim Basinger, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Julia Roberts all turned down the role of Annie in Sleepless in Seattle. Meg Ryan got the part instead
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should attend?
All O&P professionals, practitioners, physicians, pedorthists, technicians, fitters, students, educational instructors, facility owners, marketing personnel, residents, office managers, billing specialists, manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of O&P products and services. This is your opportunity to earn over 34 continuing education (CE) credits! Don’t miss the show that sets the standard for the profession.
How do I register for the meeting?
Online registration opens in May. Visit www.AOPAnet.org often for updates and new information.
Cancellation Policy
To receive a refund of registration fees, less a $50 processing fee, notification of cancellation must be received in writing no later than August 10, 2009. Please fax any registration cancellations to AOPA at (571) 431-0899, Attn: Erin Kennedy. No refunds will be made for cancellations received after August 10, 2009. Substitutions are allowed but must be in writing. If you need to cancel your hotel reservation, please follow directions on your confirmation.
When will on-site registration open?
On-site registration opens at 10:00 AM on Saturday, September 19, 2009
Registration Hours
Saturday, September 19 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday, September 20 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Monday, September 21 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday, September 22 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday, September 23 8:00 AM - Noon
When does the meeting begin?
The meeting officially begins on Sunday, September 20 with Manufacturers Workshops from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Don’t miss the Welcome to Seattle Reception, which will be held at 6:00 PM Sunday evening.
When will the exhibit hall be open?
The exhibit hall opening ceremony will be held at 6:00 PM on Sunday, September 20 in conjunction with the Welcome to Seattle Reception.
The Exhibit Hall Hours:
Sunday, September 20 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM (Welcome Reception)
Monday, September 21 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday, September 22 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday, September 23 8:00 AM – Noon
Can I earn CE credits by touring the exhibit hall?
ABC- and BOC certificants can receive up to three CE credits for touring the Exhibit Hall. To receive credit, you must submit an application with the required documentation. Applications will be available at the AOPA booth located in the Exhibit Hall.
What is the dress code for the meeting?
AOPA has adopted a policy of business casual attire for the 2009 Assembly.
Can I bring a guest into the Exhibit Hall?
Please do not ask those who are not registered for the Assembly to meet you in the Exhibit Hall. They will not be permitted to enter without a badge. No exceptions will be made. Use the registration area as your meeting point. Spouses and children qualify for reduced registration rates. Please contact Erin Kennedy for additional registration information at ekennedy@AOPAnet.org.
What education sessions will be offered?
A Preliminary Program will be available online in May. The preliminary program will be mailed to all AOPA members, ABC certificants, BOC certificants and previous Assembly attendees. If you do not fall into one of these categories, but would like to be added to our mailing list, contact Erin Kennedy at ekennedy@AOPAnet.org.
Where will the meeting be held?
All meetings and AOPA-hosted events will take place in the Washington State Convention & Trade Center (WSCTC).
Washington State Convention & Trade Center (WSCTC)
800 Convention Place
Seattle, WA USA
Phone: 206-694-5030
Fax: 206-694-5398
What is AOPA’s Antitrust Compliance Policy?
AOPA has a policy of strict compliance with federal and state antitrust laws which serve to prohibit agreements, combinations and conspiracies in restraint of trade. Attendees at the AOPA National Assembly should avoid discussing certain subjects when they are together at any formal or informal gathering. The following guidelines are to be adhered to at all times during the Assembly:
• DO NOT discuss prices, fees or rates, or features that can impact prices such as discounts, costs, terms and conditions of sale, warranties, or profit margins.
• DO NOT agree with competitors as to uniform terms of sale, warranties or contract provisions.
• DO NOT exchange data concerning fees, prices, production, sales, bids, costs, customer credit, or other business practices.
• DO NOT agree with competitors to divide up customers, markets or territories.
• DO NOT agree with competitors not to deal with certain suppliers or others.
• DO NOT try to prevent a supplier from selling to your competitor(s).
• DO NOT discuss your customers with your competitors.
• DO leave any meeting (formal or informal) where improper subjects are being discussed. Tell everyone why you are leaving. Any questions about AOPA’s antitrust policy should be directed to AOPA’s Executive Director.
Do I need a badge to participate in the Assembly?
Badges must be worn to all Assembly functions. Your badge is your pass to the Exhibit Hall and the education sessions. It also ensures that you are able to greet and be greeted by name by your colleagues and friends. Unless noted otherwise, optional events require tickets for those without a full-conference registration. Please remember to bring your tickets with you to the event. There will be a $50 fee for the replacement of a lost badge.
Are children permitted in the exhibit hall?
AOPA has created a special registration category at a reduced rate for children ages 11-17. Children under 11 are allowed in the exhibit hall, but must be supervised at all times. There is no registration fee or badge required for children ages 10 and under.
Are meals included with my registration?
Complimentary continental breakfasts, lunches and refreshment breaks will be available for meeting attendees. Your lunch tickets are included with your badge. Be sure to bring your ticket with you each day. Lunch will be served Thursday and Friday in the Exhibit Hall. Continental breakfast will be served outside of the education sessions on Thursday and Friday. Breakfast will be available in the Exhibit Hall on Saturday.
If you need additional information please contact Erin Kennedy at ekennedy@AOPAnet.org or (571) 431-0876
