NATIONAL: Event Tech Live will take place virtually November 2-6, while also hosting an in-person event November 4-5 at the Old Truman Brewery in London. The hybrid conference will feature more than 150 exhibitors from around the world, plus 80 sessions over five days.
Cannonball Productions CEO Kate Levenstien has launched the Coalition of Live Event Organizers (CLEO), a new community that aims to connect producers to discuss and collaborate on future events. The organization hosts weekly webinars on topics ranging from best practices for refunds, communication with sponsors, navigating virtual events, advocating for grants, and more.
ATLANTA: Topgolf plans to open Puttshack—a $2.5 million, tech-forward mini-golf experience—in late 2020 in the city's West Midtown neighborhood. The entertainment venue will feature 21,000 square feet of space, including four mini-golf courses, upscale food and beverage, a rooftop patio, and private event space.
CHICAGO: After 25 years, John "Jack" Patronski will retire from GES on June 30; he currently serves as the production company's executive vice president of industry development. In addition, Patronski was chairman of the board of Choose Chicago from 2007 to 2009, chairman of the board of PCMA Foundation in 2006, and has been named one of BizBash's Top People in the U.S. Events Industry.
NEW YORK: The American Heart Association's annual Hamptons Heart Ball will be held virtually this year on June 20. Emceed by Susan Lucci, the virtual gala will honor Ingrid Arneberg and Arthur Klein, MD.