We'll be talking about the record-setting 2007 USITT Annual Conference & Stage Expo long into the future, and the chief remark heard at the closing Awards Banquet was that the time had passed much too swiftly. Staff, officers, Conference Committee, exhibitors, and those attending were glad to have seen so many people. Like everyone else, the staff felt we'd left hundreds of conversations unfinished, but we had a wonderful time. We're told it rained in Phoenix after all the USITT visitors departed, but we had nothing but clear skies.

To Top

Those of you who have talked to or corresponded with Brian Petranchuk will be both happy and sad to hear of his departure. Mr. Petranchuk, who had been our Accounting/Special Projects Clerk, has left to pursue an occupation closer to his field of study working for Partners Trust bank. We wish him well on his pursuit of his M.B.A. and his banking career, and thank him for working with us through the Phoenix conference.

To Top

We're glad to report that Herb Camburn is physically OK after a very scary car crash as he was returning from the Conference in Phoenix. Mr. Camburn's vehicle rolled five times, and then went up in flames. While all his business records from his booth in Phoenix were lost, we're grateful that Mr. Camburn was not badly hurt. If you purchased anything from him at the Conference, he'd really like to hear from you at hl456camburn@cs.com.

To Top

Congratulations to our new Fellows, inducted into that august group at the 2007 Conference. We'll have more complete coverage (and photos) in the May issue of Sightlines about the induction of Alexandra Bonds, Richard Hay, and Elynmarie Kazle.

To Top

Also in the May issue will be an update on action taken by the Board of Directors including changes within the USITT Office in Syracuse, and complete coverage of the USITT Award presentation to Irene Corey.

To Top

Looking ahead, Joe Aldridge our VP Conferences, has announced Kansas City, Missouri (not to be confused with other cities with similar names) as the site for the extravaganza and celebration of USITT@50. Details will follow, and ideas are still being solicited for how to commemorate this milestone for the organization. Visit www.usitt.org/50 for details or e-mail usittat50@usitt.org to share an idea with the planning committee.

To Top

George C. Izenour, professor emeritus of theatre design at the Yale School of Drama, and considered by many to be one of the most important people in the lighting industry, died Saturday, March 24, 2007.  An In Memoriam remembrance will be included in the May issue of Sightlines.

To Top