The Architecture of Appraising: Building on a Solid Foundation

By Elise Waters Olonia, ISA AM, Conference Chairperson

Chicago evokes images of towering, landmark skyscrapers, well-designed parks, savory international cuisine, a vast array of specialty museums, engaging night life and much more! In 1871, Chicago endured the challenge of its central business district burning to the ground. What followed was the cooperative effort of the people to re-build this resilient town into a greater renown. Hence, the "Second City."

As members and affiliates of an innovative, hardworking and curious community, we have the opportunity this year at Assets 2017 to look at our own practice with fresh eyes. Like the people of Chicago, we will build upon our roots, our core education, to deepen our understanding of all facets of the appraisal business. Utilizing experts both within and associated with our industry, growth and development of our practice will occur!

We are pleased to introduce several new educational and informative events. On Thursday, March 30 and Friday, March 31, a Pre-Conference Course will be offered, “How to Be an Effective and Successful Appraisal Witness.” This course will be led by James J. Mangraviti, Jr., Esq. who has trained thousands of expert witnesses. Additional regular onsite courses will be offered including a 7 hour USPAP Course on March 30 and a Requalification Course at the end of the week on April 4 and 5.

Also on Thursday evening, there will be a special gathering of estate lawyers in Chicago at the historic Palmer House, our host property. A panel featuring several estate lawyers and ISA appraisers will discuss new estate issues. This informative evening and opportunity for conversation will be most helpful for those actively working with estates.

Another exciting development will debut at this year's conference! In our Saturday breakout sessions, a third track of education is being offered to specifically address the Generalist. This new division was created to accommodate our group of professionals who may or may not be actively appraising and are perhaps, more centered in estate sales.

On Friday the 31st, specialty lectures and tours have been thoughtfully organized. Participants will enjoy lectures by highly trained experts at Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, the Museum of Contemporary Photography and the Art Institute of Chicago. In addition to the lectures, select artifacts and objects will be available for closer examination. New this year is a special lecture at AIC by Dr. Alexis Culotta on Provenance.

Take time in preparing for this year’s conference so that you get the most out of each opportunity. Become familiar with the details of this engaging program on our website. Remember that all classes and lectures provide educational credits for your portfolio. Investigate what’s happening in the city in the event you decide to extend your stay. Give the gift of this conference to yourself and/or sponsor someone else who has interest.

Assets 2017 ignites the vision of warm embraces from colleagues, the discovery of art and antiques through expert eyes, answers to lingering appraisal questions, discovering new tools and pathways of obtaining information, forming relationships which opens doors to business opportunities and much more… 

Join us today! 

Sincerely,
Elise Waters Olonia, ISA AM, Conference Chairperson

Worthwhile Attractions during Assets 2017

While we’re excited to bring attendees of Assets 2017 (March 31 – April 3) programming of the highest quality, we also understand that the conference’s Chicago location would mean nothing without the opportunity to get out and explore the city, home to the ISA Headquarters.

First, for those seeking to expand their Assets experience, March 31 is the day of our Fine Art Tour and Antiques, Furnishings + Decorative Arts Tour. Join your colleagues as they visit world-renowned locations like Leslie Hindman Auctioneers, the Museum of Contemporary Photography and the Art Institute of Chicago. Learn more on the Tours page.

Second, for those who find themselves with extra time on their hands, here’s just a few of the attractions worth visiting while in Chicago:

Millennium Park
From Jaume Plensa’s Crown Fountain, which projects an ever-changing lineup of locals’ faces on its walls, to the 110-ton Cloud Gate sculpture (known lovingly as “The Bean”) by Anish Kapoor, this nearly 25-acre park features wholly unique outdoor artwork, monthly garden walks and year-round flower displays. While it’s within walking distance of the Palmer House Hilton, it also has convenient parking.

360 Chicago
Located on the 94th floor of Chicago’s famous Hancock Center (and formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory), 360 Chicago allows you to see up to 55 miles out and a total of four states.  With an interactive tour, dining, and unbelievable sights, this attraction recently gained an addition known as “the Tilt,” an enclosed platform that extends from the building at a 30-degree angle.

Museum of Science and Industry
Those who love museums – but want a quick break from fine and decorative arts – should consider this terrific site nestled in Hyde Park. A winner at the 2016 Time Out Love Chicago Awards, the Museum of Science and Industry is known for its interactive exhibits and noteworthy pieces, including a simulated coal mine, a vintage diesel-electric train, and a restored U-505 German submarine.

Music Box Theatre
This two-screen cinema is well-regarded for its consistently top-notch programming of documentaries, art-house films and restored classics. Located in Wrigleyville, the main theater regularly hosts Q&A’s with directors, while cult classics are given midnight screenings, all of which tend to be packed with enthusiastic cinephiles. It’s a movie lover’s dream venue.

The Green Mill
In the 1980s, owner Dave Jemilo restored the club to the original luster it had in the Roaring Twenties, when it was a regular hang-out spot for Al Capone and other infamous gangsters. Since being refurbished, it’s been a music connoisseur’s delight, with affordable drinks, a fantastic vibe, and a stage that features an array of wonderful jazz musician or bebop musicians. One night, you may hear an award-winning pianist, while the night after that may feature an indie group destined to be “the next big thing.” Sit down and let the music wash over you. You will not be disappointed.

These are only five of the terrific attractions you can enjoy while in Chicago. Whether you’re enhancing your Assets experience or extending your stay a few nights after, there’s always another site to see in the Windy City.