Printer Friendly

Convention 2006

Evening Events

Wednesday, March 22

First Timer and VIP Reception

5:45-6:30 p.m. NIA would like to welcome all first-time attendees to the 2006 convention. This invitation-only event provides an opportunity to introduce first-timers to the leadership of NIA, as well as program information for the week's convention. The NIA board of directors, executive committee, past presidents, committee chairmen and NIA staff will be on hand to greet everyone. This hosted cocktail reception is casual and immediately precedes the Welcome Reception.

Welcome Reception - Fiesta!

6:30 - 8 p.m. The spirit of San Antonio will tempt all of your senses this evening as we celebrate the start of another successful NIA Convention. Enjoy the festive sounds of a Marimba trio's cha-cha, light salsa, samba and jazz while sampling an amazing array of southwestern cuisine including steamship round of beef, grilled chicken, fajita beef and black bean quesadillas, tortellini and penne pasta with assorted sauces, fresh fruit, imported and domestic cheese, southwest chips and dip, and so much more. Experience the spirit of San Antonio while networking with friends, colleagues and industry professionals.

Manufacturer's Dessert Hospitality Suites

7:30 p.m. Year after year, NIA's associate members dare not let us forget about dessert. Save some of your appetite after the Welcome Reception to savor just about anything your sweet tooth could desire. Sample desserts at each of the manufacturer-hosted suites, say hello to fellow colleagues and friends, and be sure to introduce yourself to at least one first-time attendee.

Thursday, March 23

Associates Night

6 -10 p.m. We're headed for the hills this evening; that is, Texas Hill country. Join us as we travel to the Don Strange Ranch, a unique ranch from the early 19th century that embodies genuine down-home Texas comfort. Enjoy the sounds of San Antonio's best country western bands as you nibble a variety of hors d'oeuvres and sip on longneck beers. When the old-fashioned dinner bell sounds, it's time to start enjoying a real Texas barbeque, including Texas rib eye steak, roasted quail, garlic mashed potatoes and more. Dessert includes German style apple strudel, Jack Daniels bread pudding with bourbon sauce, Mexican chocolate cake with Texas pecans, and fresh seasonal fruit.

After dinner, a country line dance instructor will teach you some of Texas and country music's most popular dances, such as the "Cotton-Eyed Joe", the "Chicken Dance", "Boot Scoot Boogie" and the "Achy Breaky Heart." You don't need a partner to learn these dances! And if dancing isn't your thing, go on a hayride around the Don Strange Ranch. They say the stars are big and bright deep in the heart of Texas, so come and join us for a night a fun!

Saturday, March 25

President's Gala

Cocktail Reception 6:30 - 7 p.m.
Dinner & Dance - 7 p.m.

After a most-assuredly productive week at NIA's 51st Annual Convention, the President's Gala is a chance to mingle one last time with attendees. This black-tie event honors NIA's current president. Join us in thanking Gerald W. Scott for a year of service to our industry and the association.

The evening begins with a hosted cocktail reception and will be followed by a sit down dinner of pan-seared filet of Black Angus and barbecued pacific salmon filet with roasted garlic-spinach mashers, seasonal vegetables and a dessert of chocolate truffle torte chocolate cake layered with Grand Marnier chocolate mousse. The evening's entertainment will be provided by Fletcher Goodman, a local 10-piece band. Sing and dance to tunes of old time rock 'n roll, country, 50s and jazz.