LYRA MAG.

13th annual Digital Patriots Dinner - Consumer Technology Association(CTA) -Washington DC It's " more critical than ever that CTA play a role in governmental policies. .." was appropriately in the opening word mix of Gary Shapiro, the President and CEO-who genuinely welcomed a congenial group of industry and political types from both sides of the 'AISLE'-to the first gathering, post the 2017 Presidential inauguration -of this influential trade group-and the force behind the massively popular CES show in Las Vegas. The well packed cocktails/dinner- at the magnificent Smithsonian American Art Museum + National Portrait Gallery ...officially launched CTA members' efforts during #CTATechWeek-that is an interactive human push  "to work with anyone elected...to move our nation forward..." Early evening meet/greet-(CTA Pres/CEO Gary Shapiro and Rep. Will Hurd & staff)-appropriately enough-in front of the Nelson Shank's portrait of other...

Washington DC-Marriott Marquis A Celebration of Innovation And Technology (2016) "...recognizing the outstanding accomplishments of five people dedicated to public service who believe that innovation is the driving force that makes our nation great." As an outsider to the political process...a brief trip for a small part of CTA's Tech week for Congressional members (and their staff)...functions as a reminder of how Federal legislative (in)actions massively impact the way USA citizens live their lives. The big draw -at the  well run Digital Patriots Dinner --- was the chance to hear Honoree Senator Cory Booker give another one of his bring the house down/barn raising speeches that are so inspirational. Some Highlights: At the pre-dinner cocktail reception -the HTC VIVE virtual reality demo-had attendees lining up for a chance to experience three   G Rated 360º degree motion tracking/interactive, full room scale virtual reality experiences (powered by STEAM VR)-...