San Diego's trademark sunny skies greeted more than 25,000 attendees who convened in San Diego for the HIMSS 2006 Annual Conference & Exhibition, February 12 - 16. The event marked a 16.5% increase in attendance over last year's gathering in Dallas, Texas, and a 34% increase over their previous record-breaker in San Diego in 2003. But beautiful weather was just one of the reasons why HIMSS chose San Diego to host its annual gathering.

	See HIMSS 2006 highlights

Karen Malone, Vice President of Meeting Services for HIMSS, said "San Diego has the entire package - great convention center, great hotels, great destination and great weather."

The event is considered the most anticipated healthcare information technology event of the year and is one of the Convention Center's largest clients. The show used more than 600,000sf of exhibit space, including the building's signature Sails Pavilion which offers striking views of downtown's skyline and San Diego Bay. Over three million pounds of freight was unloaded during move-in and attendees stayed in more than 50 hotels throughout the city.

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Attendees had the opportunity to connect with over 850 exhibiting companies which featured the industry's latest technology, products and services. When delegates weren't on the trade show floor, attending sessions, interactive workshops or participating in roundtables, they could be found soaking in San Diego's gorgeous weather on the outdoor terraces which overlook the Pacific Ocean.

Convention Center staff embraced the group with open arms to make them feel right at home -- no request was too large or detail too small to ensure the success of the event.

"From an attendee perspective, I heard several times how gracious, helpful and friendly the greeters in the building were. They seemed to really care about our show," said Ms. Malone. "As a show organizer, the Center's staff is among the best anywhere. They are extremely knowledgeable, responsive and know how to get things done. They set the bar for professionalism in the convention industry."

Center Plate, the Convention Center's food and beverage provider, took complete advantage of the weather supplying an American style BBQ on the outdoor terraces. Decked out in red, white and blue, the aroma of an open grill wafted along the waterfront and gorgeous views of the bay were a hit with attendees. During their stay, the record-breaking crowd also consumed 29,192 beverages - or 1,460 gallons of coffee - at various Starbuck locations throughout building.

"HIMSS is one of our long-time repeat clients. Our goal is to always provide an outstanding convention experience that they will remember long after they leave our city," said Carol Wallace, the Convention Center Corporation's President and CEO.