If the definition of a watershed event is one that indicates a turning point and defines and shapes public opinion, then 1999 qualifies. (And if by watershed, you mean the area drained off of water, then our rain-sodden week in Orlando was that, too.)
However you define it, 1999 was it for us. Our 10th year was our finest. (Actually it's 11, and we can't believe that nobody added up the years between 1989 and 1999 to accuse us of miscounting. In fact, though, we did not hold an event in 1992, so there...)
Everything just seemed to work-a happy confluence of elements. Corel users hold the software in generally high regard and indicate overall satisfaction, the economy is good, October was a good time to get away, several key Corel decision-makers came to check us out, and the patronage was as enthusiastic as we have ever seen them. Owing to this is a core group of alumni that we now treat as family, and a veritable horde of first-time conference-goers. We normally get about 75 to 100 first-timers; this year, we attracted 220!
Our expanding throng of patrons was treated to a week of fantastic learning, peerless problem-solving, abundant food and beverages, nightly partyage, and an overwhelming sense of satisfaction that comes from being part of a unique event. Nowhere else can Corel users get to meet other Corel users from seven different countries, all with a single destiny for the week.
For pictures of the event, visit the Web site. The next conference, CorelWORLD 2000, takes place September 10-15 in San Diego.
