A message from William D. Sessoms, Mayor of Virginia Beach
WELCOME OCEANS ’12!
It is indeed a pleasure for me to extend to you a most cordial welcome on behalf of the City of Virginia Beach.
This international technical conference on Harnessing the Power of the Ocean will address several of the topics in which I have a keen interest, including Sea Level Rise/Coastal Inundation, Marine Renewable Energy such as off-shore wind energy, and Marine Spatial Planning (effective coordination and sharing of our waterfront resources for recreational/ocean transport/fishing/military/wind energy and environmental protection). During this conference, you will be able to learn and contribute as we sort though these challenges together.
Also, while here, please enjoy the many activities Virginia Beach has to offer. As one of the safest cities of its size in America, Virginia Beach offers an abundance of cultural and recreational opportunities and immediate access to quality Oceanfront establishments. The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art has a marvelous collection of the art of our time, and offers exhibitions and outdoor art shows. Don’t forget the events at the beautiful resort area and our vibrant Town Center.
We also have excellent parks and recreational facilities. We are especially proud of the Virginia Aquarium, which combines hands-on exhibits with over 100,000 gallons of aquariums along with miles and miles of beautiful beaches and scenic waterways.
Our modern city also has a rich historical past. In Virginia Beach, you can sightsee at locations that date back to our nation’s birth. All of this, together, makes this a truly great place to live, work or visit.
We are delighted that you are visiting our community, and I encourage you to fully experience one of the finest cities in the world.
Sincerely,
William D. Sessoms
Mayor