03/15/2007 - DALLAS - The American Fire Sprinkler Association (AFSA) announces AFSA: Reaching Out, Ahead and Beyond as the theme for its 26th Annual Convention & Exhibition to be held September 26-30, 2007 in Phoenix, Ariz.

Known for opportunities to talk with industry experts and representatives on the latest developments, applications, and techniques, the AFSA convention routinely draws large crowds of decision makers and industry shakers. This year is no exception. AFSA offers an exciting exhibition hall filled with the latest innovations by the industry's major suppliers showcasing their products, materials, and services at the nation's largest fire sprinkler exposition. With unopposed hours, the exhibit hall opens with flair the evening of Thursday, September 27 for the always attended social event, the Chairman's Reception, and again, on the afternoon of Friday, September 28 during the 14th Annual Apprentice Completion, which takes place in the exhibit hall.

This event is the fire sprinkler industry's largest and most comprehensive exhibition in addition to offering unparalleled professional development opportunities to earn CEU or CPD credits. Education topics will cover technical as well as business management courses that will benefit business owners and other management; engineers; designers; architects; and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs). Seminars will be held Thursday, September 27 through Saturday, September 29.

The Association's 2007 convention hotel is the beautiful JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa, conveniently located in northeast Phoenix just 20 minutes north of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. With 950 guestrooms, this AAA Four Diamond award-winning resort is set on 316 acres in the Sonoran Desert where Phoenix meets Scottsdale and features sweeping views of the McDowell Mountains. The resort's guest rooms feature oversized balconies overlooking wildflower gardens, swimming pools, lakes, waterways and golf course or mountain views. Families and free spirits alike enjoy floating along the resort's Lazy River and serpentine slide in this lush desert oasis.

Inspired by the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, Desert Ridge redefines the resort experience. It touts two picturesque 18-hole courses on-site, one of which is the Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf course, which will host AFSA's annual golf tournament Saturday, September 29. The Palmer Signature Course, with a slope of 135, is a very playable, scenic experience.

Mark your calendars now for the largest national conference exclusively devoted to fire sprinklers! All attendees at the AFSA's 26th Annual Convention & Exhibition must register and pay the appropriate registration fees. Visit AFSA's convention page at www.firesprinkler.org for registration or exhibitor information.

About AFSA
Established in 1981, the American Fire Sprinkler Association is an international association representing fire sprinkler contractors, manufacturers and suppliers of fire sprinkler products, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction. AFSA is dedicated to the educational and professional advancement of the automatic fire sprinkler industry.

Contact:
Marlene Garrett
Director of Education
214-349-5965
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