July 15, 2009 (Calabasas, CA) – Bail Agents who attened AIA’s recent Gulf Coast Conference held on June 12 – 14, 2009 had a chance to get the true feeling of Mardi Gras while also learning about valuable tools to empower them to grow their business. The weekend’s festivities began with a Mardi Gras style parade down Bourbon Street which ended at BourbonVieux for the Agent Appreciation Party. BourbonVieux boasts the largest balcony on Bourbon Street and was a great opportunity for agents to participate in the most popular act of throwing beads to the revelers walking below on Bourbon Street. AIA’s own agent, George Sandifer and his Mississippi Band provided the music while agents dined and danced the night away.
Saturday was all business as agents learned about how to survive in today’s tough economy. We discussed challenges facing bail agents in the industry including deposit bail and pretrial services and offered tips on how to overcome these obstacles. FEMA Regional Continuity Manager, Brad McDannald spoke to agents about business continuity during a disaster to ensure their business operates after a disaster. AIA Chief Operating Officer, Robert Kersnick spoke about using technology to streamline and improve business including the introduction of the new service eSupport. The new service is designed to allow agents even better communication with their dedicated support team.
Also on hand at the conference were Orleans Parish 1st Assistant District Attorney Graymond Martin, Louisiana State Representative, Noble Ellington and Mississippi State Senator, Billy Hewes. All expressed extreme gratitude for the conference being held in New Orleans to help support a community that continues it rebuilding after a devastating hurricane in 2005.
AIA has posted a photo gallery on its website for agents to view photos from this conference. If you are an AIA agent and do not have your log in, please contact Agent Support Team at (800)935-2245 for help with log in.