Tradeshow Industry Trailblazer Jerry Kallman Passes Away
May 26, 2020
Typically, TSNN would write a straightforward news article on a long-time member of our industry’s passing - Gerald G. "Jerry" Kallman, Sr. – Jan. 10, 1931 - May 20, 2020 (age 89.)
In these times we are in, and because of the person Jerry was overall, I wanted to write something a bit more personal.
I have been incredibly lucky to have some great mentors in this industry during the years – Jerry was one of them.
Early on, he opened my eyes and taught me quite a bit about the international trade show industry. He was a trailblazer in areas all around the world for exhibitions.
Here is an excerpt from his obituary of just a small bit of what he accomplished in his decades-long career:
In 1961, Jerry founded Kallman Associates, a one-man consultancy firm that would become a world-renowned international trade show management company.
A global traveler, very often accompanied by life-partner Lorraine, Jerry organized trade events on six continents establishing relationships and forging friendships wherever he traveled.
For nearly four-decades he represented the German State of Bavaria and the Munich Trade Fair organization. His success in fostering trade between the U.S. and Germany earned him both the “Key to the City” of Munich and the country’s highest honor given to non-German citizens, the Federal Cross of Merit.
In the United States, Jerry was recognized with Lifetime Achievement Awards by every major trade fair industry association.
Most of all, Jerry was an incredibly kind person.
On a promotion I received not too long ago, Jerry wrote in an email subject line ‘Atta Girl!’ and said, “Just got wind of your appointment and want to add my congrats to those of your many friends and colleagues. I am sure there will be new challenges and opportunities, just as I am certain you will meet and exceed each. Best wishes, Jerry Kallman”
He was one of those people who never met a stranger and will be greatly missed.
Thoughts and prayers to his friends and family.
Jerry’s tribute page is here if anyone would like to leave a message: https://www.feeneyfuneralhome.com/tributes/Gerald-Kallman
The family also appreciates your condolences and humbly suggests any donations to the Ridgewood Rotary Foundation’s Kishermoruak Primary School. https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=CTSTN7L6NF5QL&source=url
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
Add new comment