FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 6, 2012
For more information:
Zach Stratton
360-750-1553 Ext 19
marketingadmin@visitvancouverusa.com
VANCOUVER USA TO WELCOME ANNUAL BONSAI CONFERENCE
Artists from all over the world will gather at the Hilton Vancouver
VANCOUVER, Wash. - From September 14-16, the Vancouver Hilton and Convention Center will be transformed into a world-class bonsai exhibit when the 2012 Pacific Northwest Bonsai Club's Association Conference comes to town. The convention, hosted by the Bonsai Society of Portland, will feature workshops, demonstrations, a marketplace, a world-class bonsai exhibit, and much more highlighting the unique art of forming and shaping bonsai trees.
"We couldn't be happier to welcome this group to Vancouver USA," said Kim Bennett, President and CEO of Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office. "It's not every day you are able to assemble so many talented and passionate people in one place. The Vancouver Hilton offers an ideal location for that and the attendees will be able to experience our great downtown core and waterfront area on a fall weekend, a great time of year here."
The theme of this year's convention is "Imagine & Create" and artists from around the world will offer demonstrations and insights on bonsai techniques. Renowned international bonsai artists Marco Invernizzi of Italy and Peter Warren of the UK will be joined by Americans Ted Matson and Scott Elser. Attendees will be able to watch expert demonstrations or take part in any of the 12 half-day workshops, consisting of only six to eight participants.
"This convention provides an excellent opportunity for the general public to see an unbelievable display of some of the Northwest's finest bonsai for a nominal fee of $5," said Ron Cascisa of the Bonsai Society of Portland.
For those new to the art of bonsai, 30-minute introductory workshops, lectures and demos will be offered. Additional activities throughout the weekend will include oral and silent auctions, a no-host social and buffet dinner, and a banquet. More information on the convention, including pricing and the calendar of events, can be found at www.portlandbonsai.org.
About Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office
The Vancouver USA Regional Tourism Office, along with its subsidiary the Vancouver USA Regional Sports Commission, is an economic development organization responsible for competitively marketing Vancouver and the surrounding area as a destination for meetings, conventions, sports events, and group and leisure travelers. The organization's mission is to promote Vancouver and Clark County by increasing convention and visitor business. For more information call 877-600-0800, or visit www.VisitVancouverUSA.com.