SOURCE: ARDA
September 14, 2001
ARDA leadership, members and staff are deeply saddened by the shattering acts of terrorism that shook our country
on Tuesday. We send our prayers and thoughts of solidarity to all Americans, as all of us have been deeply and
forever impacted by this terrible tragedy. Over the past two days, ARDA has listened attentively to the voices
and hearts of our members, many of whom have called to speak about the tragedy and to inquire about the right thing
to do at this unprecedented time in our country's history.
As we contemplate ARDA's options regarding the 2001 Fall Summit, which was scheduled to take place next weekend,
many ARDA members expressed deep concern regarding air travel to, and security measures in, Washington, DC and
the appropriateness of holding a conference at this time. As you may know from news accounts, Washington is under
a State of Emergency through September 26th. Security is extremely tight around the city and many events are being
cancelled or postponed.
First and foremost in our thoughts is the health and welfare of each of our members planning to attend the Fall
Summit. As America prepares to respond to this cowardly act, there is a fitting level of anxiety in our nation's
capital and around the country. Summit events were to have taken place at the Old Executive Office Building and
the Russian Embassy. Presently, neither venue can confirm the ability to hold these events. Moreover, our leaders
in Congress are appropriately focused on matters of national security, leaving us unsure of the availability of
our guests and speakers.
After carefully examining the situation and consulting with ARDA members, we have decided to postpone the 2001
Fall Summit. Although we are disappointed to cancel our fall program, we also believe it is the wisest and most
prudent course of action at this time. It is also ARDA's way of showing respect for the lives lost in this tragedy.
We are planning to replace the Fall Summit with a special leadership meeting early in 2002. ARDA will inform you
regarding the details and dates of the Winter Summit event in the near future. Those of you who have already paid
registration fees for the Fall Summit may apply those payments to the Winter Summit or request a refund. We are
glad to accommodate either option. Please contact Adrienne Riley (ariley@arda.org)
should you desire a refund. If you have made reservations at the Monarch Hotel in DC, you will need to personally
cancel by calling the hotel at 202-429-2400.
This is a sad and reflective time for our nation. We hope this change in schedule allows you some unexpected time
next weekend with your loved ones.