(PRESS RELEASE) After much thought and deliberation, the Independent Jewelers Organization (IJO) has made the decision to cancel its Spring Conference scheduled for Feb. 26 through March 2, 2021, at the Marriott World Center in Orlando. With the current environment and status of the COVID-19 pandemic, organizers felt that taking any risks and putting any members and/or staff in danger could not be justified.
“It has been reported that the next few months will be the toughest in the battle against COVID-19,” stated IJO President and CEO Jeff Roberts, “and I feel it is our responsibility to take every precaution necessary.”
All at IJO are optimistic that with the delivery of a vaccine to the public this situation will vastly improve and allow life to return somewhat to normal. They feel that by this summer they will be able to have their conference in Kansas City Aug. 13-17 as planned.
Roberts added, “We are deeply saddened and so sorry to our members who were looking forward to Orlando but at this time it is the prudent move. We will be holding a virtual Conference in February with the date and details to follow.”