2013 SAFN-WWIIFNA National Convention: sponsored by the NE will be in Portland, Maine!
Portland, Maine the “City by the Sea” is where the 2013 National SAFN Convention will take place. It is being hosted by the North East Region.
It is the Doubletree Hilton in South Portland, Maine. There is easy access off I-95 (exit 45); in addition the Portland International Jet Port is approximately 3 miles away. The Northeast Regional 2010 meeting was held there and we had an enjoyable time. Handicapped rooms are available and though rather small, accommodating only one double bed. The rooms do have large bathrooms. If a handicapped individual is traveling with a companion they can have an adjacent room for half price, since there are not two beds in the handicap rooms. A cot type bed would also be available to put in the handicap room. It is highly suggested that if one will be in need of a handicapped and an adjacent room for a traveling companion that these rooms are booked early. The Hilton’s room price will be $119 per night plus tax (total approximately $126) and hotel is located across the street from the Maine Mall which has over 140 stores for all you shoppers.
Hotel’s direct number: (207) 775-6161 or Hilton Reservation at 1-(800) 445-8667. The block code is SAN or you may simple request booking for name, Society of Air Force Nurses. You may also book your rooms through the following link: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland, ME
Portland’s population is approximately 64,000. It was established in 1632. In 1675 a series of Indian raids sent the residents fleeing, leaving the town in ruins. The residents returned, rebuilt and adopted the Phoenix as their motto ‘I shall rise again’. This was appropriate as it recovered from two more disasters, one in 1775 when the town refused to surrender to the British who subsequently reduced 400 buildings to rubble in less than 24 hours. The third disaster was a massive fire in 1866 that left 12,000 residents homeless. Today Portland is an active and vibrant city on the coast of Maine.
Deborah Husoin in an article in March 12 Military Officer stated: “Portland is considered to be one the centers of culture in the Northeast”. AAA travel guide and information from the Tourist bureau noted the civic center provides music, sports and entertainment. The Portland Art museum offers an unparalleled look at art from the 1800s to the present. In Old Port one may visit the house Henry Wadsworth Longfellow grew up in or venture on an Old Port Pub Crawl. Outdoor enthusiasts delight in the walking and biking paths. Freeport, Maine home of LL Bean and many outlets is approximately 25 minutes north of our hotel.
It’s anticipated that the majority of SAFN members will arrive Wednesday, September 18th and leave Sunday the 22st. As in past years the convention hotel room rate will be available three days prior to and three days after the meeting dates, subject to availability.
