A Home Run for Community and Connection: Families, Fun, and Baseball Highlight an Unforgettable Evening
by Mark Hebert, Exhibit City News
The Exhibit Designers and Producers Association (EDPA) Las Vegas Family Night at The Ballpark on August 1, 2024, was a grand slam, bringing together members and their families for an evening of fun, food, and baseball at the Las Vegas Ballpark. With the added excitement of Country Music Night, the event offered a perfect blend of professional networking and family bonding, making it a memorable night for everyone involved.
The highlight of the evening for some was seeing EDPA members mingling with their families and industry peers. Gayle Wright, President of EDPA Las Vegas, shared her enthusiasm about the event: “The biggest highlight for me was seeing our members and their families together. It truly was a Family Night at The Ballpark!”
Wright noted the unique opportunity for families to get acquainted with the industry and each other on a personal level, emphasizing how rare it is to spend such quality time with loved ones during the busy tradeshow seasons.
Wright expressed her joy at witnessing the children’s excitement and engagement. “I loved meeting our board members’ children and seeing how much fun all the kids were having. It’s great to know each other beyond the professional sphere,” she said.
According to Wright, the event underscored the importance of community within the EDPA, showing that members are valued not just as business associates but as part of a larger family.
Wright also highlighted the benefits of such events for the EDPA Las Vegas community. By including families in industry events, members can demonstrate the inclusive and supportive nature of their community. “Growing up, I knew where my parents worked, but I never knew their coworkers or peers. I hope that families see our industry as one that embraces the entire family. By involving them, we show they are part of our community,” she explained.
The positive feedback from attendees was overwhelming. Many appreciated the chance to bring their families to an industry event, and Wright recalled a particularly memorable moment: “Seeing the kids naturally networking and engaging beyond their comfort zones was fantastic. Our members showed a sense of pride introducing their families to their peers.”
Despite the Las Vegas Aviators’ narrow 9-8 loss to the Albuquerque Isotopes, the game provided plenty of excitement. The Aviators displayed remarkable skill, with highlights including Nick Allen’s two home runs and six total bases, Jonah Diaz’s home run and two RBIs, and Alexander Alvarez’s contributions with a home run and two RBIs. The Isotopes clinched their victory with a late-game rally, but the Aviators’ performance and the energetic atmosphere kept fans thrilled until the end.
Wright praised the Aviators’ performance and the electric energy of the game, stating, “The Aviators were outstanding that night. There’s nothing like being in the stands and witnessing your home team score a home run—the energy was infectious!” She also extended a special thanks to the Las Vegas Ballpark and the Aviators for an incredible evening, noting the joy of having the Aviators’ mascot available for pictures with the kids.
The EDPA Las Vegas Family Night at The Ballpark was undoubtedly a success, providing an engaging and enjoyable experience for all who attended. As Wright summed it up, “Overall, our event knocked it out of the park!” Stay tuned for more updates and insights in our next issue.
