If you missed registering for the upcoming National Onion Association/ National Allium Research Conference set for Nov. 30-Dec. 3 in at the Hilton Savannah DeSoto Hotel in Savannah, GA, don’t despair.
Later registration is being accepted, and you can access it at www.onions-usa. org/members/noaconventions. Remember, there is also a link for hotel accommodations at the Hilton Savannah DeSoto at http://bit.ly/2aRj0ib.
The combined event has a packed schedule of events that includes committee meetings, technical presentations, general sessions, networking opportunities and the annual banquet and installation of officers. Attendees will also have the opportunity to tour Bland Farms, the UGA Extension facility and the Vidalia Onion and Vegetable Research Center as well as Generation Farms.
And the spouse/friend program will take in much of historical Savannah, including the Colonial Park Cemetery and lunch at The Olde Pink House & Planters Tavern, built during the 1700s and a Union Army headquarters during the Civil War.
According to NOA Director of Public and Industry Relations Kim Reddin, this format combining the NOA and NARC conventions and conferences is “a tremendous opportunity for the onion industry.” She said, “In addition to networking, touring the Vidalia onion production area, the combined conference brings the latest developments in crop science, technology, marketing and government regulations and advocacy together in one place.”
Kim added that 20 allium crop related-research presentations and 26 science posters are being presented.
“Whatever role you play in the industry, this event has something for literally every person,” she said.
The 2016 winter event represents only the second time NOA/NARC have combined their events, “So the researcher-to-stakeholder (producer) interaction and vice versa alone is compelling,” she went on to say.
Traditional components such as workshops, business sessions and tours remain in place, but Kim said there are a “few new or different aspects to this event” that include a documentary screening, a scavenger hunt, a fun run/walk, special peer-to-peer networking time and a social media session.
She said the venue is especially suited for an onion event. “Savannah is a unique and charming city, full of history and lore,” she said. “The Race to the Reception 5k Fun Walk/Run Wednesday will be a great way to get out and experience the city. Thursday the Spouse/Friend tour includes historic sites and lunch at a storied venue. Georgia’s bounty of produce will also be a focal point for several meals. The sights, sounds, and tastes of the area will all be part of the experience.”
In looking at numbers leading up to the Savannah convention, Kim said, “We are planning on a very high attendance for the 2nd NOA/NARC. Those who have signed up or expressed interest are motivated by the content, interactive events, touring, convention city and networking.”
For additional information, contact the National Onion Association at 970-353-5895 or visit the association on line at www.onions-usa.org.
