About the author: Rebecca Wilhelm is associate editor for Storm Water Solutions. Wilhelm can be reached at 847.954.7958 or by e-mail at [email protected].
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As the coming year presents fresh challenges as well as unique opportunities, public works professionals and exhibiting companies will gather for the 2009 APWA Congress & Expo, scheduled for Sept. 13 to 16 at the Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio.
The theme for this year’s event is “2009: A Year of Change.” The past year may have brought some unwelcome economic changes, but the renewed interest in the state of our nation’s infrastructure presents an unequalled opportunity. And even with shrinking travel budgets, Columbus won’t break the bank—the capital of Ohio is just a day’s drive away for half of the U.S. population.
Full registration includes entrance into the exposition; all education sessions; a choice of Wednesday Workshops or the Public Works Stormwater Summit; admission to the Get Acquainted Party and the Awards Ceremony; and two lunches on the exhibit floor.
Keep in mind that APWA is moving to an “almost paperless” Congress. Speaker handouts will be available for download, and print stations will be available at the Congress & Expo.
Education
General sessions will feature addresses from John E. Sununu, former New Hampshire senator (Sept. 13); Larry Winget, author of You’re Broke Because You Want to Be (Sept. 14); and Bob Berkebile, FAIA, principal at BNIM (Sept. 15).
This year’s featured speaker is R. Glenn Ray, Ph.D., communication expert, coach and facilitator. Ray will lead seminars on Sept. 15 and 16.
“Jungle Jack” Hanna, director emeritus of the Columbus Zoo, will close out the general sessions with an address on Sept. 16.
Networking Opportunities
A variety of networking events is scheduled for making connections with industry peers or enjoying reconnecting with old friends.
The First-Timers Meeting on Sept. 13 is a must-attend for any newcomers. Other special networking receptions include the Progressive Women in Public Works networking reception the evening of Sept. 13 and the Young Professionals Networking Reception for members ages 40 and under the evening of Sept. 14.
Extracurricular Activities
APWA’s Ohio Chapter is inviting everyone to the Party Like a Rock Star! Get Acquainted Party. It will take place Sept. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. at The LC, located in the heart of downtown Columbus’ Arena District.
Another special event—new this year—is the Ohio Invitational Snowplow & Equipment Roadeo (additional fee/registration) on Sept. 14. A specially designed course will test operator skills.
Wind down on Sept. 16 at the annual Golf Tournament (additional fee/registration), which starts at 9 a.m., and cap off a successful conference with the Congress Reception and Banquet, Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m.
Editor’s note: Clear your schedule—the 2010 APWA Congress & Expo will take place in Boston from Aug. 15 to 18 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.
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