46th Annual Winter Convention
January 17-21, 2009
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
Koloa, Kauai Island, Hawaii
OPASTCO Rides Wave of Innovation
OPASTCO's 46th Annual Winter Convention proved an unrivaled success for attendees seeking the leading edge of the rural telecommunications. Kauai's tropical beauty and laid-back pace provided the ideal juxtaposition for OPASTCO members in the midst of the exciting challenges and rewards offered by a rapidly transforming industry.
The convention's general and break-out sessions provided a great balance between next-generation know-how and embracing the now. Keynote speakers The Satellite Sisters spoke of how they keep in touch with family throughout the world and keep a sense of humor, while guest speaker Gene Johnson of FairPoint discussed how his company's inspiring transformation as it keeps its core mission to serve rural communities with first-rate telecommunications. Attendees also received a timely overview of recent economic events by Dr. Ed Seifried of Lafayette College, as well as the thoughts of from an expert panel discussion on intercarrier compensation.
Attendees made time, too, to explore and relax on Kauai beaches and other points of interest. This winter's golf tournament took place at the Poipu Bay Golf Club, located nearby the resort. OPASTCO members also turned out fully in support of FRED's community development and educational programs, whose event this convention was a Polynesian luau.
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Convention Presentations
Click here to access presentations from the forums, rountables, tradeshow and workshops.