REDMOND, WASH. SEPT. 13, 2001 — Microsoft Corp. and the organizers of PASS 2001 North America are deeply saddened by the horrific events that took place on Sept. 11, 2001. It is a tragedy that certainly challenges everyone’s ability to conduct their daily lives for the next few weeks and will forever affect the way everyone feels about the world around them.
PASS, as a community, has no doubt been affected by these events. In light of this extraordinary situation, along with its logistical ramifications, Microsoft and PASS believe it is appropriate to postpone PASS 2001 North America, which was to be held Sept. 19 — 22, 2001, in Orlando, Fla.
PASS members, registered attendees, speakers and exhibitors will be notified as soon as a new date has been established for the event. All paid registrations will be honored, in full, for the rescheduled event. Attendees for PASS 2001 North America may also be eligible for penalty-free flight rescheduling. This afternoon, Microsoft’s conference site will include an FAQ page of registration and travel information, which can be found at http://www.sqlpass.org/events/orlando/index.cfm.
Microsoft and the PASS board of directors regret any inconvenience that this decision may cause participants. They thank everyone for the interest and support they have shown for this event. At this time, the thoughts and prayers of everyone at Microsoft and PASS are more appropriately with the victims, their families, and the thousands of emergency personnel and volunteer caregivers helping those in need.
“Our thoughts are with all the people touched by the tragic events on Sept. 11,” said Gordon Mangione, vice president of the SQL Server (TM) Group at Microsoft and PASS keynote speaker. “We heard concerns from registered attendees about travel restrictions and available transportation. Postponing the PASS conference will ease travel logistics and give us all time to help with the recovery effort. I look forward to seeing you when PASS is rescheduled.”
Finally, PASS would like to encourage everyone to help their fellow citizens in New
York, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and other affected areas. The FAQ page at http://www.sqlpass.org/ has a list of a few organizations that would greatly benefit from assistance.
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