Conference Teaches Worldly Wisdom "Especially with international events, you have to do your homework when it comes to hotels, security issues, transportation, and so on," advised Pamela H. Block, CMP, assistant director of conferences, Chemical Week Magazine, in New York City. "Then you can step back and let people do their jobs." Block, who plans 12 annual events worldwide, was one of several panelists at the Beyond Borders Conference, held at the New York Hilton Hotel and Towers, April 5 to 6.

The conference, now in its third year, focuses on the information needs of planners who manage overseas events. This year it provided a rich learning environment for the 105 attendees who participated in sessions on everything from site selection to security issues, VAT reclaim, and international protocol.

Adams Business Media, under the direction of vice president Virginia Lofft, produced the event, along with Anne J. Boehme, CMP, owner of Meetings & Management Techniques, Valley Stream, N.Y., and adjunct assistant professor, New York University Center for Hospitality, Tourism, and Travel Administration. Sponsors were Shangri-La Hotels International, Networld Inc., the New York Hilton Hotel and Towers, and PGI, Production Group International.