Boston 2008 is just around the corner. You should have the new Session Guide. I hope you are finding it helpful. We have excellent registrations, superb response from book exhibitors, and a positive response to the breadth and depth of the program. If you have not registered there is still time -  http://www.sbl-site.org/meetings/AnnualMeeting.aspx  

SBL is aware of labor contract negotiations going on in Boston regarding unions and various food /hotel service providers. Some contracts came up last year and are still not resolved. We have met with our vendors for the Boston Annual Meeting. The specific unresolved contractual matter that exists relates to Aramark food services. They provide food services for the Hynes Convention Center where many of our meetings will be held.

First Amendment rights on the part of any of the parties in conflict over contracts have the right to contact the SBL offices. Should they go beyond those rights and threaten members I would greatly appreciate knowing of these incidents. Please let me know directly if anyone contacts you as an SBL member in regard to the contract issues.

We strongly support just and equitable solutions. We are carefully monitoring the issue. As you know we sign contracts for our annual meetings long in advance of the actual events. We knew about this matter but anticipated that it would be resolved before we were to meet in late 2008.  

I look forward to seeing you in Boston, 21-25 November 2008.

Cordially,

Kent Harold Richards
SBL Executive Director
Professor of Old Testament
Email