Happy (almost) fall! Students are back at school, and sports are in season. Last week, I went to my first football game of the year at the University of Maryland. I got to see my daughter Tabitha perform in the West Virginia University marching band – she plays the alto saxophone.
It was so fun to do something “normal” like going to a sports game! There’s nothing like the in-person experience of sitting in a stadium, feeling the excitement of the crowd, and watching the halftime show in person. (And getting to yell, “Go Tabitha!!”)
Now that more in-person group events are opening up, we’re all currently figuring out what we’re personally comfortable with. This goes not only for attending sports games, but also for attending professional conferences.
In-person professional events provide the chance to build relationships in a way that Zoom rooms just can’t provide. And if you’re an extrovert (like me) you’re probably excited for the chance to mingle and connect with like-minded people. However, we all have to gauge how comfortable we feel with attending group gatherings, and for many people, it’s also enticing to attend events from the comfort of your own home.
I’m curious to know your thoughts! Are you planning to attend any in-person events this fall? If you have the option for attending online or in-person, which will you choose?
PPR Strategies is excited to be supporting a lot of events coming up this fall, many of which are a hybrid option of both online and in-person:
- The Maryland Economic Development Association Fall Conference – This year’s conference focused on economic recovery and on identifying creative and innovative programs that speak to this economic challenge.
- The IEDC Annual Conference in Nashville, Tennessee – October 3-6 – I’m excited to be a moderator for a panel at the IEDC Annual Conference. The topics include Creative Economic Development, Tourism, Transportation & Technology. Register here.
- The 2021 George Delaplaine Distinguished Citizen Award Event by the BSA National Capital Area Council – October 7 – We’re pleased to be supporting our friend Sue Hough, who is a nominee for the Distinguished Citizen Award. Register for the event here!
- Economic Development Week – October 25 -29 – MEDA’s Economic Development Week highlights the significant role of economic developers in Maryland. Find out more and save the date!
- Charles County Fall Meeting – November 7 – Charles County business leaders, regional commercial real estate professionals, economists, and stakeholders will dive into how Charles County is positioning all businesses to thrive. (Registration opens soon.)
With many options opening up, we’re all exploring our priorities for in-person experiences and what we feel comfortable with. I’m curious to hear from you. What makes it worth it to you to attend an event in person? Which events are you planning on attending? Leave a comment below to share your thoughts with me!
‘Til next time,
Sandy
