Knowing the state's affinity for all things grand, attendees went big or went home after daily sessions at the 2009 American Health Information Management Association Convention and Exhibit in Grapevine, TX. Those who had the oomph to party were treated to two Texas-themed events where music and margaritas flowed.
On Sunday evening, attendees trekked from the convention center to the hotel lobby of the Gaylord Texan Resort in a quest to kick back at the annual Welcome Reception. From there, it was a short ride in the welcome wagon, er, trolley across the parking lot to the Gaylord's Glass Cactus nightclub.
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Set on Lake Grapevine, the Glass Cactus was a picturesque venue for the evening's festivities. There was a chill in the air, but many attendees braved the weather and claimed seats on the outdoor deck, which overlooked the lake. Other partygoers chose to stay indoors, where warm tones, dim lights and a combination of wood and stone created a cozy lodge feel. The dance floor, however, featured an open layout, with a soaring two-story ceiling. On the second floor, attendees could overlook the action before settling at an intimate table.
Sponsored by Kforce, the Welcome Reception featured light refreshments, including cheese, crackers, fruit and vegetable platters. Servers circulated with glasses of wine and the evening's signature cocktail, margaritas.
Attendees munched and mused about the convention; for those who attended preconference events, there was much to discuss, but for most attendees, the convention had only just begun.
On Tuesday, members had a night on the town--indoors. The President's Premier Celebration was held in the Gaylord Texan's Atrium, an expansive area featuring a Texas frontier motif.
Under a glass ceiling encasing a large Lone Star, attendees line-danced and lined up for food and drinks. The southwestern spread included potato skins, chili and make-your-own pulled pork sandwiches, while glowing goblets set a nightclub vibe.
The Keith Mitchell Band kept partygoers entertained with upbeat country music throughout the night, but it wasn't the only attraction. Bonnie Cassidy, 2009-2010 AHIMA president-elect and vice president of HIM consulting services for QuadraMed, which sponsored the event, invited attendees to take part in other activities, including karaoke and green screen photos.
Members weren't afraid to get into the spirit. Several groups donned cowboy hats and fringed jackets at the event. Even incoming President Rita Bowen, MA, RHIA, CHPS, gave Texas a nod with a festive vest. Attendees agreed it was a successful celebration, and a great way to cap off the informative conference.
Cheryl McEvoy is an assistant editor with ADVANCE.
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