2003 Annual Conference

This is one spectacular opportunity you DON'T WANT TO MISS...!!! The International Foundation for Cultural Property Protection (IFCPP) proudly announces it's Fifth Annual Conference, Seminar, Exhibits, and Certification Program. In conjunction with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the IFCPP will host a very special event at the Hearst Castle, October 8-12, 2003 in San Simeon, California.

Here's a preliminary look at the event: On Wednesday evening, October 8, attendees and guests will be treated to a welcome reception at the National Geographic Center located adjacent to the Hearst Castle Visitor Center. This will be an outdoor event, featuring registration, exhibits, wine tasting, buffet, cocktails, and live music, followed by the IMAX movie, "Building the Dream".

On Thursday, October 9, we'll kick off our outstanding educational programs with a presentation by featured speaker, Dr. Peter Tarlow, Ph.D. A leading international expert on tourism security, Dr. Tarlow is back by popular demand, and promises to provide the latest information and advice on the international terrorism picture. Additional special sessions include a detailed look at how historic sites and others deal with the global threat, use of special technology and staff in the protection of unique sites, and how to improve protection with reduced staff and budgets. Fire protection, detection, and suppression will receive special attention.

After a quick bus trip to our beachfront lodgings, we'll return for a Santa Maria style barbeque on the plaza, followed by shuttles up the mountain to the Castle for special tours (conducted by the State Park corps of visitor guides). It will be an event you won't forget.

Special exhibits, highlighting the latest in video technology, integrated access systems, intrusion detection, fire suppression and detection, and much more will be on display in the National Geographic's exhibit area.

On Friday, following a sit-down breakfast, we're in the classroom, with both levels of certification program (CIPM/CIPS) running concurrently at the Cavalier Resort Conference Center. Weather permitting, lunch and dinner are on the bluff - beach front - overlooking the ocean. The day concludes with examinations and certification for Certified Institutional Protection Manager, Supervisor, and Specialist. Those not attending the certification program will enjoy some very special behind-the-scenes security and facilities tours at the Hearst Castle. And that's not all, we're still finalizing additional activities for attendees, spouses and companions alike.

The weekend has even more to offer, with an excursion to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and Fisherman's Wharf on Saturday. We've also scheduled the First Annual Golf Tournament at the nearby Morro Bay Golf Course. Sunday will bring a trip to the Paso Robles wineries, fishing, beach wildlife visits, shopping, and too much more to mention.

In case you're wondering, this will be THE most memorable cultural property protection event of the year....even better than our previous four, all of which earned YOUR outstanding rating. Great presenters, topical programs, added highlights, and superb lodgings. You'll definitely want to bring the family for this one. Ocean front rooms are "first come-first served", so don't be late! Contact rob@ifcpp.org or call 800-257-6717.