The benefits and joys of life in our small coastal community are many. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, done it all and start thinking about heading to the big city you’re reminded that the Seaside Civic and Convention Center brings you the best of all possible worlds and you can stay right here. And if you’re in Seaside as a visitor you’re sure to be pleasantly surprised by the high caliber of this wonderful facility and the events and services it has to offer.
What can you expect from the Seaside Civic and Convention? A craft beer festival, a gem show, a Barbershop Cabaret, Project Homeless Connect, the Miss Oregon Pageant, the Dixieland Jubilee, the Annual Dorchester Conference, an Iron Chef competition. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
I’ve been more times than I can count and for so many different things it hardly seems possible that it’s the same space. I appreciate that there is ample free parking; that the building, with its sleek, clean profile, is nestled unobtrusively next to the river; and that events are well orchestrated by a warm, friendly staff. And as General Manager Russ Vandenberg pointed out, the thousands of visitors brought into town by the convention center make it a significant contributor to the local economy.
Vandenberg is proud of the work he and his staff has done to “transform a 40 year old facility into a first class convention center by introducing some of the most modern technology available to meeting professionals.” He enjoys the challenges that come with each unique event and went on to say that “knowing clients are leaving our city and facility feeling satisfied with their experience is what motivates me to come to work every day.”
In addition to facilitating large group meetings and cultural activities, the convention center’s mission is “to provide services . . . that respond to the needs of local and civic related events . . . enhancing the quality of life for the community it serves.” This mission statement reflects what Russ Vandenberg and I and so many others in Seaside feel: This is a wonderful place to live, work and play, a generous community where locals and visitors alike are family.
So if you’re in need of a quality venue for an upcoming event, look no further than the Seaside Civic and Convention Center. And if you’re looking for something to do while you’re in town, consult the convention center’s calendar of events.
