[neshera]

We used to have an inflatable dome, 60'X30' with an airlock door.
We didn't need chewing gum, we never noticed much of a pressure change in the doorway. If both doors of an airlock are open, however, the dome will attempt to deflate via the doorway, hence the gust of wind.
It is true however - you can't hang stuff from the ceiling. I suspect they have trusses, just like Aerial Assist's truss, for AV equipment. Seating will be on bleachers.

Pekin is a suburb of Peoria, so you'll have plenty of dining choices for dinner Friday night.

Fun tip: If you meet anyone who is from Pekin itself, ask them the old nickname of their high school sports teams. Hint: they are now the Pekin Dragons.