The finest in appraisal education, professional development, and networking opportunities.

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Chapter Bulletin

AI Education

Appraisal Institute Education for every state of your career. Check out our list of offerings!

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An Update to Cook County Real Estate Tax Assessment

Speaker: Honorable Fritz Kaegi, Cook County Assessor
Location: Wildfire, 159 W. Erie St, Chicago, IL
Time: 11:30 – 2

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Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land...

To learn about what changed in the 6th edition of the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions, please join us for this 2 day seminar.

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USPAP

2020-2021 Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP)

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Appraisal Institute National Update Bulletin

AI News

Appraisers are Valuable Resource in Property Tax Appeals, Appraisal Institute Says
Tue, 11 Feb 2020 08:00:00 GMT

When appealing their property taxes – which can be among their largest annual expenses – homeowners should consider hiring an experienced local appraiser who can help navigate the process, the nation’s largest professional association of real estate appraisers said today.

Appraisal Institute Pushes to Improve Regulatory Climate: Valuation Magazine
Thu, 30 Jan 2020 10:51:00 GMT

The Appraisal Institute is pushing to improve the regulatory climate for real estate appraisers and to educate policymakers on the importance of sound appraisal practices, according to an article in Valuation magazine’s fourth quarter 2019 issue.

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Industry News

WeWork Downfall Reportedly Most Threatens 3 Office Markets
Wed, 12 Feb 2020 12:30:00 GMT

The office markets in New York City, Los Angeles and San Francisco are at the biggest risk of being negatively impacted by the downfall of office sharing company WeWork, according to multiple real estate services firms, National Real Estate Investor reported Feb. 4. Between 2010 and 2019, WeWork bec [...]

Election Could Halt CRE Investor Activity, Report Predicts
Wed, 12 Feb 2020 12:30:00 GMT

The presidential election could cause the U.S. commercial real estate market to pause or drop after the second quarter, according to the National Investor Sentiment Report from analytics firm RCM/Lightbox, GlobeSt.com reported Feb. 6. Top threats to CRE investment activity include a wait-and-see app [...]

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Upcoming Events

Feb

Board of Directors Orientation
Wed, 19 Feb 2020 15:00:00 GMT

Feb

1st Quarter Board of Directors Meeting
Thu, 20 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

May

2nd Quarter Board of Directors Meeting
Thu, 07 May 2020 00:00:00 GMT

May

Leadership Development & Advisory Council
Mon, 18 May 2020 13:00:00 GMT

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Instructor Spotlight

Tom Hamilton, PhD, MAI, CCIM, CRE, FRICS

Tom Hamilton, PhD, MAI, CCIM, CRE, FRICS is the Fogelson Distinguished Chair at Roosevelt University's Chicago School of Real Estate and founder and president of Karvel-Hamilton Real Estate Analytics. For over 20 years Dr. Hamilton has taught graduate and undergraduate real estate valuation courses, and for 30 years he has conducted valuation and appraisal services for the telecommunication and public utility industries and for numerous local and state agencies in the valuation of real property. Dr. Hamilton holds a BS, MS and a PhD (Real Estate) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MS (Finance) from the University of Wyoming...

Jeff Jacobson, MAI, SRA

Jeff Jacobson, MAI, SRA is Vice President at Jacobson and Associates, Real Estate Appraisals and Consulting, in Sycamore, Illinois. During his 25+ years in the valuation and consulting of real estate, Jeff has extensive experience as an appraiser, consultant, expert witness, and investor. Jacobson is an approved instructor for the Appraisal Institute and the State of Illinois and actively teaches qualifying education courses including the Supervisory Appraiser/ Trainee Appraiser Course, Income Capitalization, among others. Jeff earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Bradley University in Business Management and Administration with a minor...

Joe Mags, Joseph Magdziarz, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, AI-RRS

Joe Mags, Joseph Magdziarz, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, AI-RRS has been an active instructor for AI for the past three decades. He was the 2011 National President and has served on the Education Committee in many capacities including Chair. Joseph is qualified to facilitate numerous courses and seminars.

Joe Wallace, MAI

Joe Wallace, MAI, is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner, at Praedium Valuation Group (PVG), which is headquartered in Chicago, IL. Mr. Wallace began PVG in 2001 and today the firm has a diverse service offering, which includes commercial valuations, residential valuations, litigation support and consulting services. PVG's clients include attorneys, developers, title companies, mortgage lenders and public agencies, as well as corporate and institutional owners and investors.

John Urubek, MAI, CCIM

John Urubek, MAI, CCIM has been an appraiser for 40+ years and heavily involved in the Appraisal Institute's educational system for more than three decades. He is now approved to teach all general level and all advanced level courses needed to become an MAI. On a national level, he has served on the Curriculum, Body of Knowledge, and Education committees. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. He is a recipient of the national President's Award and the President's Award for the Chicago Chapter. He was extremely honored when inducted into the Instructor's Hall of Fame for the Chicago Chapter...

Kerry M. Jorgensen, MAI

Kerry M. Jorgensen, MAI is an active real estate appraiser and owns a small firm in Utah. He has been an instructor for the Appraisal Institute for more than 30 years and has served that organization as a chapter president and on the national board of directors, as well as on numerous committees and project teams. He has authored courses and seminars and is a contributor to the current editions of The Appraisal of Real Estate and The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal. Among his awards and honors are the 2014 Armstrong-Kahn Award - For Outstanding Original Article in the Appraisal Journal, the 2015 Dr. William N. Kinnard, Jr...

Randall Neff, MAI, SRA

Randall Neff is a partner in Neff Valuation Group in Peoria, Illinois. Neff Valuation Group is a diverse practice that completes valuations of residential, multifamily, commercial and industrial properties for a variety of client types. Randall has been an appraiser since 1982, primarily involved in the valuation of commercial and industrial properties. He has been an instructor for approximately 20 years.

Find An Appraiser

Search the Appraisal Institute's comprehensive appraiser database that lists professionals from all over the world. It has become an indespensible resource to those seeking valuation services, as well as a source of business for appraisers themselves.

This Directory lists real estate appraisers who are Designated Members, Candidates for Designation, or Practicing Affiliates of the Appraisal Institute.

Designated members who hold the MAI, SRPA, SRA, AI-GRS and AI-RRS designations have met rigorous requirements relating to education, experience and demonstration of knowledge, understanding and ability.

What Our Members Say

"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute offers the best real estate appraisal education in the industry. The Chapter offers many gatherings, ranging from meetings, seminars, classes and social events which allowed me to meet and mingle with like minded professionals and expand my network"

-David Binz, SRA

"Being a designated member has opened many doors. I get inquiries from all around the country looking for work from MAI's. I have also made many friends and have enjoyed the classes and seminars. I think anyone involved in the real estate industry would benefit working with AI. The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute is a comfortable facility with a friendly and knowledgeable staff."

-Bruce Darata, MAI

"CCAI has a proud history as being "the" innovative leader and influence in the Appraisal Institute. An aspiring appraiser cannot find a better environment or mentor network that encourage success. It offers outstanding opportunities in appraisal education and leadership. Many members have developed national fame for their specialties, published books and journal articles, seminars, and contributions to the profession. CCAI is truly a treasure. Nearing the end of my career, I personally realize the importance of CCAI in where I've been, what I've done, what I've learned."

-Richard C. Sorenson, MAI

"Whether just starting your career or already established, membership in The Appraisal Institute provides a wide variety of quality education options, consistently high ethical standards, and a variety opportunities to network with other appraisers, and related real estate and financial market participants."

-Karen T. Emerle, SRA

"Benefits of membership include up-to-date continuing education, opportunities to serve the appraisal professionals in the industry in various capacities, social interaction and access to a vast network of appraisal professionals. An MAI since 1984, and a member of the Chicago Chapter since1981, I strongly believe the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute could be an advantageous association for anybody who desires to be in the appraisal industry."

-Michael A. Wolin, MAI SRA

"The Appraisal Institute is the premier professional organization in the appraisal industry and the MAI designation is the most prestigious in the industry and widely recognized world-wide. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute is an important appraisal industry organization that advocates for its members through educational services, legislative activities and social activities."

-John C. Satter, MAI

"Being a member of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has provided me with many wonderful networking opportunities with other appraisers from all over the country. Classes are offered at convenient locations both downtown and in the suburbs. The Chicago Chapter has provided me with an outstanding education through their vast offerings of qualifying education on my path to designation as well as continued education course offerings to help maintain my state licenses. I have made many great friends and colleagues at the Chicago Chapter, and am honored to be a part of this professional organization."

-Alexandra M. Meade, MAI, AI-GRS

"I joined the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute because of the excellent educational resources afforded members and the ability to speak with seasoned veterans of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute. It is truly difficult to find fellow appraisers that truly understand the business and have such a depth of insightful knowledge. The Chicago Chapter is the proverbial North Star of chapters, in my opinion, as the depth of appraisal knowledge in the Chicago chapter runs from rural to urban properties and from nationwide to worldwide properties. Every commercial and residential appraiser would benefit from joining the Chicago Chapter just to be well informed and to have the ability to call a knowledgeable fellow appraiser for those complex assignments or insight into running a fee shop."

-Mark T. Gasick, SRA, AI-RRS

"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has been a great source of education to advance my career in the real estate appraisal industry. It also offers many opportunities for networking with my peers, as well as serving the organization."

-Cameron Rex, MAI

"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute has established itself as one of the leading providers of appraiser education and training in the country, and actually the world. With the expansion and establishment of the four different designations, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS, and AI-RRS, education and training is more important than ever in the advancements of our careers as appraisers. Become a member of the Chicago Chapter and give some of your time and energy to make it great. It really is going to give back to you as much as you give to the organization and more. Whether it be sponsorships, or donations of time, it will make a difference in your life and career as an appraiser."

-Mark S. Whitsitt, SRA

"Prior to joining the Chicago Chapter, the leadership was very helpful to me, when I approached them with questions. So, I joined the chapter. Since joining, leadership opportunities have been made available to me that were not available at other chapters. I have also participated as a member. The members have been very supportive of me and helpful in my journey. I have enjoyed my time with the chapter members and hope to continue to do so."

-L. Stacy Letton, MAI, SRA

"As the owner of a small appraisal firm, I often struggle to find new opportunities to meet leaders and experienced appraisers in our industry. Becoming a member of the appraisal institute and getting involved in the chapter, has given me access to a vast network of these professionals, and has been the single greatest decision I have made as a leader, appraiser and a business owner."

-Sam Louise, Standard Valuation Services

"The Chicago chapter of the appraisal institute is a wonderful resource for continuing education and appraisal networking. I look forward to the annual conditions of the market seminar every year."

-Susan Z. Ulman, MAI

"Joining the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute was a defining moment in my career and over time has converted my business into a professional firm. The appraisal industry is changing and building strong relationships with other professionals is essential to staying ahead. Nowhere else can you find better real estate valuation experts."

-Kenneth J. Mrozek, Jr., MAI, SRA

"The Chicago Chapter’s website is my go-to resource in finding appraisers for my firm. In addition to being able to post available positions, I also can take a look at appraisers who are seeking work. This is a great resource available to Appraisal Institute members and affiliates."

-Kent D. Steele, MAI

"Becoming a member of the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute provided me an opportunity to network, as well as, employment opportunities. The majority of my employment opportunities were due to membership and access to the CCAI website. The benefits are surmountable when it comes to membership discounts on courses, educational offerings, employment postings, scholarship opportunities, etc. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute is a professional powerhouse for real estate appraisers and other professional organizations of real estate services."

-Barbara Neal

"I have found the instructors at the Chicago Chapter and the fellow members are extremely willing to help others in this profession to succeed. Their help extends beyond the classroom into ones daily business practice. The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute has provided me with the tools to help me be better prepared for the challenges facing our profession. CCAI has been and continues to be made up of people who recognize a need and are willing to work to fill that need to improve the organization or a fellow member, often at great sacrifice to their own to their own needs."

-John G McMahon, SRA, AI-RRS

"The local chapter has the most comprehensive and frequent CE and QE offerings available to appraisers. The Staff at CCAI always WOW's the membership in customer service."

-Keith Wolf, SRA, AI-RRS

"The Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute provides one of the largest networks of appraisers in the US. To be a part of the Chicago Chapter has not only benefitted person growth but professional growth as well. I believe any company would benefit with working with the CCAI. With an extensive membership and networking opportunities there is no limit to the cross impacts between business. The CCAI values its members and looks out for their best interests. To be as successful as it has been year over year is a testament to the strength its community."

-Kenneth Konrath, MAI

"I feel honored to be affiliated with what I considered to be some of the best appraisers in the country. The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute keeps me up to date with issues and I stay informed of the changes in the profession, some I even had to privilege of participating in their development. The Chicago Chapter gave me a good foundation for my career and has sustained me as I near retirement. But, one of the most important benefits are the relationships I developed with other members of the Chapter that have created lasting friendships."

-Sharon Bagby, SRA

"The Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute provides high quality professional education, industry support, interesting social events and chances to become involved and meet with other appraisers. If you are looking to expand your appraisal knowledge and network with other appraisers, the chapter is by far the best option."

-Keith Solomon, MAI

Newly Designated Members

MAI Members

Jacqueline L. Hujar, MAI, AI-GRS
Pedro Davi Jimenez, MAI

SRA Members

AI-GRS Members

Jacqueline L. Hujar, MAI, AI-GRS

AI-RRS Members

Chicago Chapter of The Appraisal Institute Newsletter

Get news and updates from the Chicago Chapter of the Appraisal Institute sent directly to you!

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Job Board

Posted Jobs

President

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 18:52:53 GMT

MaRous & Company of Park Ridge, Illinois seeks an experienced real estate appraiser, ideally an MAI or advanced MAI candidate. The right candidate is already a State Certified General Appraiser and producing quality work that is non-lender focused, and with high level properties. Ideal candidate will have experience with either/both Datappraise or Narrative one. MaRous & Company has been in business for the past 40 years. An established company that is client focused; creating customized reports to fulfill their needs.

Michael MaRous
mmarous@marous.com

Commercial Appraisal Reviewer II

Tue, 17 Dec 2019 17:38:56 GMT

Associated Bank is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse workforce. We support a work environment where colleagues are respected and given the opportunity to perform to their fullest potential. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status, among other factors. Applicants with a disability who need assistance applying for a position with Associated Bank are asked to email: colleaguecare@AssociatedBank.com or call: (800) 878-3282. Job Summary On all commercial real estate transactions requiring valuation services originated in the Regional Banks, CRE, Business Resource Center, Special Loan Group, or Corporate Banking; responsible for selecting a qualified appraiser, issuing the engagement letter, reviewing and accepting the issued appraisal for compliance and methodology used, and completing an appraisal review report for the collateral file. In addition, assist the Appraisal Compliance Officers, Senior Credit Officers, and Lines of Business with questions regarding Real Estate Appraisal and Evaluation ordering and review procedures. Compliance Statement Fully complies with all applicable enterprise policies and procedures. Acts in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as outlined in training materials, including but not limited to Bank Secrecy Act. Responsible for reporting suspicious activity to Financial Intelligence. Responsible to report all customer complaints as prescribed and procedure violations to management or HR. Responsible to report ethical concerns as needed to Associated’s anonymous Ethics Hotline. Key Result Areas: •Problem Solving •Reconciling •Research •Analysis •Regulation and Compliance Job Accountabilities •Perform appraisal reviews for all business lines to assist lenders and credit officers in valuing commercial real estate for lending purposes in order to maintain high credit quality. •Select appraisers for a specific loan transaction, from a pre-existing list. Prepare the Engagement Letter and review the final appraisal when completed for compliance and valuation methodology contained in the appraisal to justify the appraisal value •Collaborate with the Regional Credit Officer, Corporate Loan Review, Relationship Managers, and Credit Analysts to ensure overall appraisal compliance, independence, and valuation. •Provide documentation for the OCC and respond to requests from the OCC Examiners to ensure that all new Commercial Appraisals meet the current federal requirements regarding compliance, independence, and proper evaluation. •Evaluate and coordinate an approved appraiser list and recommend qualified additions or deletions from said lists. Responsible for maintenance of the lists to ensure that appraisers meet our guidelines. Qualifications: Education •Bachelor's Degree , Required Experience •2-4 years Real estate appraisal, bank or finance lending, mortgage company experience or real estate background, Required Skills •Written Communication, Verbal Communication, Mathematical, Microsoft Office, Operate Office Equipment Licenses and Certifications: •Certified General Real Estate Appraiser in a State within the Bank's primary footprint by start date (required) •Candidate for MAI or AI-GRS designation of the Appraisal Institute by start date (preferred)

Curt Kolell
Curt.Kolell@Associatedbank.com

VAS - Vice President

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 19:13:39 GMT

CBRE is seeking to hire a VAS Vice President to join the Seniors Housing & Healthcare Practice in the Chicago region. On the Seniors Housing & Healthcare team, this position will contribute to the continued growth of the practice. For more details on this job please click on https://cbre.referrals.selectminds.com/jobs/vas-vice-president-63165 or please reach out to James Graber, Managing Director – VAS @ james.graber@cbre.com At CBRE, you are empowered to take your career path into your own hands. As a Fortune 500 worldwide leader in real estate services, CBRE’s more than 80,000 professionals provide exceptional outcomes for clients in 60+ countries. We provide comprehensive valuation, advisory and consulting (VAS) services for real estate owners, investors and lenders, combining our specialized expertise and premier technologies to deliver industry-leading valuation reports and analysis. Come experience the employee advantage at CBRE. Visit www.CBRE.com

James Graber
james.graber@cbre.com

Sr. Commercial Real Estate Appraiser

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 15:28:05 GMT

The Milwaukee office of Valbridge Property Advisors seeks an experienced real estate appraiser, ideally an MAI or advanced MAI candidate. Great opportunity for growth with potential leadership or partnership position. The right candidate is already a State Certified General Appraiser and producing quality work, but looking for a new situation and long-term opportunity. Valbridge Property Advisors is the largest independent national appraisal company with over 70 offices across the country. Vitale Realty Advisors, established in 1998 Steve Vitale, became a part of Valbridge Property Advisors when Valbridge launched in 2013. Based in Brookfield, we appraise a wide variety of commercial property types across Wisconsin for a mix of client profiles. Any contact will remain confidential.

Steven Vitale, MAI
svitale@valbridge.com

Commercial Real Estate Appraiser

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 18:14:12 GMT

We are looking to fill a full time commercial appraiser position. Our firm appraises a variety of commercial properties. Illinois Certified General or Associate Trainee license preferred. Send resume to brad.braemer@reac.com.

Brad Braemer
brad.braemer@reac.com

Appraisers Seeking Positions

Associate Trainee

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 20:47:07 GMT

I'm trying to get my foot in the door of residential appraisals. If anyone is looking for a trainee at this point in time I'd love to talk more about the profession or any advice you might have to offer. I do not hold a trainee license at this point, I was hoping that by posting this I could first get some feedback and gauge if there is much interest for a trainee. Please email at Brownekc@gmail.com if you'd like more information or a resume. Thank you for your time.

Kevin Brown
brownekc@gmail.com

Associate Trainee

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 23:26:26 GMT

Hi! I am a recently licensed associate trainee currently working on Valuations for Mortgage Companies. I need appraisal volume to reach my full licensed appraisal status. I would like an opportunity to work on residential appraisals and would be grateful for the opportunity to learn and advance. i can be reached anytime at 773-551-4103 or artjarrett143@gmail.com. Thank you so much for your consideration

Art Jarrett
artjarrett143@gmail.com

CCAI is a proud sponsor of the Illinois Coalition of Appraisal Professionals!

+Waters and Clay Request GAO Study to Protect Homeowners from Appraisal Loopholes
Tue, 11 Feb 2020 5:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA), Chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, and Congressman Wm. Lacy Clay (D-MO), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Housing, Community Development and Insurance, sent a letter to the Comptroller General of the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), requesting a comprehensive study on the implementation of Title XI of the Financial Institutions Reform, Recovery and Enforcement Act of 1989 (FIRREA) by the relevant federal agencies.

To view full update login to the ICAP website.

+New CE Deadline for Illinois Real Estate Appraisers
Tue, 14 Jan 2020 5:00:00 GMT

The adopted rulemaking represents a re-alignment of renewal dates and continuing education completion dates for licenses real estate appraisers. Historically, these dates have been coterminous; however, a recent amendment to the rules effectively bifurcated those dates and resulted in confusion on the part of licensed real estate appraisers.

To view full update login to the ICAP website.

+A Message from ICAP's incoming president, Ron DeVries, MAI, SRA, FRICS
Thu, 19 Dec 2019 5:00:00 GMT

In addition to staying informed in an ever changing environment with relevant email updates to our members, ICAP represents your interests at all Illinois Real Estate Appraisal Administration and Disciplinary Board meetings and participates in several organizations influencing legislation and regulation at the national level. Currently, we are working to return the Illinois CE deadline from June 30 to September 30, tying it back to the renewal date....

To view full update login to the ICAP website.

+2020 Memberships Are Now Available
Mon, 09 Dec 2019 5:00:00 GMT

Renew Your ICAP Membership Today! ICAP represents its member’s interest at all Illinois State Appraisal Board Meetings, the Association of Appraiser Regulatory Officials meetings the Appraisal Foundation Advisory Council meetings, as well as other state and national meetings.

To view full update login to the ICAP website.

+Veterans Administration - Assisted Appraisal Processing Program (AAPP)
Thu, 21 Nov 2019 5:00:00 GMT

This authorizes the Department of Veterans Affairs’(VA) Secretary to issue guidance explaining the conditions under which VA permits VA fee panel appraisers to rely on information provided by another person when making appraisals forVA’s home loan guaranty program.

To view full update login to the ICAP website.

Classroom Rental

Video created by Jason Burley

When looking for stat-of-the-art conference facilities in a convenient downtown Chicago loation, look no further thatn the Chicago Education & Conference Center. Located along the Chicago River on Wacker Drive, we have combined the art and science of hosting a business meeting or conference ensuring every event is a success.

The Art
When you walk down the marble-lined hallway you will find two sophisticated conference rooms, each surrounded with beautifully carved wood panels, 18 foot high ceilings and a full 1,750 square feet of meeting space with seating for up to 68. You will also be surprised to learn that by simply removing the soundproof dividing wall the two rooms can be combined for 3,500 square feet and seating for up to 136 participants.

The Science
In addition to our elegance, you will find state-of-the-art technology. Unlike most conference centers which charge you outrageous fees for equipment, these two conference rooms come complete with wireless internet access, computer data projection, audio and video conferencing, white boards, tablet PC's and document projection at no extra cost. We even include our on-site technology staff, ensuring your conference will proceed flawlessly.