4 minute read
Message From the President-Elect
Wow! What a fun Interactive Convention and Exposition. I found the Learning Sessions and Lounges to be quite informative, possibly more than in-person. The virtual Exhibit Hall was also great, and I enjoyed the chat feature with the vendor representatives. We have heard similar feedback from many attendees, and we will be looking for ways to incorporate their suggestions as part of the 2021 Convention and Exposition in Providence, Rhode Island, September 22–25, 2021.
Strategic Direction
As you probably know, AWT has four strategic outcomes we are working toward, but for 2021, we will be focusing primarily on two outcomes:
Outcome 1—Training and Education: AWT’s membership heavily utilizes the premier business & technical resources for the water treatment industry through technologically advanced delivery mechanisms.
Outcome 3—An Engaged Membership: AWT has increased its membership and addressed membership model options and is known for enhanced communication that encourages a diverse, engaged membership to continuously design a relevant association. If you didn’t get to see the video from the Cooling Subcommittee, be sure to check it out. The group is working on an important project on source water. They are inviting AWT members to test for Legionella and related parameters in water at the point of entry into buildings where they are providing water treatment. The purpose of the study is to gain a better understanding of the prevalence and nature of Legionella pneumophila entering premise water systems from public drinking water distribution systems. The goal is to collect over 500 samples. We are looking for members to participate in this study. If you are interested, please contact Angela Pike at apike@awt.org or (240) 404-6477.
Connection
During these times, it has been more important than ever to stay connected to our AWT community. Some of the best resources I have found have been from my colleagues at AWT.
A great way to stay connected is to volunteer. Sign up for a committee or help with a project. You can lend your expertise and grow your professional network at the same time.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve. I can be reached at mbourgeois@chemcoprod.com.
What a great convention! Although we weren’t able to see each other in person and interact the way that we have always enjoyed in the past, this was the best case scenario, given the times. My hat goes off to AWT and our staff for pulling off a successful, informative, and “above expectation” virtual event. It truly amazes me that, despite all the obstacles we faced, we were still able to enjoy the excellent talks, informative commercial corners, and fantastic interaction right from our homes and offices. With that said, we are working hard to provide a truly amazing in-person event next year in Providence, Rhode Island, September 22–25, 2021. Please join us!
Location
Providence may be the capital of the smallest state, but there is nothing tiny about the cultural punch this city packs. Whether you’re winding along the river’s edge or enjoying Little Italy, this is one urban area that is most enjoyable by foot. And don’t forget the impressive architectural, historical, and artistic components that make Providence great. Here are just a few things Providence has to offer:
A short distance away from the hotel is the State
House, the active seat of Rhode Island’s government and a must-visit attraction for architectural and history buffs.
Are you a history buff? Visit the Stephen Hopkins
House, a National Historic Landmark and the former home of a Rhode Island governor (and signer of the
Declaration of Independence) that has been converted into a museum.
A few blocks south, you'll find the John Brown House
Museum, an 18th century mansion that once belonged to a merchant and politician.
The Rhode Island School of Design Museum is a world-renowned art museum comprising five different buildings displaying ancient and contemporary art, including everything from photographs and textiles to sculptures and drawings. Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo, one of the oldest in the country, where you’ll see everything from bison and snow leopards to red pandas, river otters, and
Masai giraffe.
Because New England is known for its quaint lighthouses, take a tour of some of the local lights, like the Pomham Rocks Lighthouse in East Providence or the Conimicut Lighthouse in nearby Warwick.
Or, hop on the ferry to visit Newport, Rhode Island.
Only an hour away by water, the area is home to white sand beaches, Gilded Age mansions, vineyards, an old military fort, cultural festivals, and several museums on topics like art, tennis, history, and literature.
Hotel
For those in search of the spirit of the city, the Omni Providence Hotel places you within reach of all the best that Providence has to offer. With a premier downtown location, you will find yourself within walking distance of the city's historic attractions, gourmet restaurants, upscale shopping, entertainment, and more. The hotel is connected to the Rhode Island Convention Center, Dunkin’ Donuts Center, and Providence Place Mall, making it the ideal destination.
Educational Sessions
The highlight of every convention is the educational sessions. The abstract submission process is open until January 9, 2021, so be sure to submit a presentation on new technology in the industry or a case study on a successful solution for your customer. We’re looking forward to another quality program.
Awards Dinner
One of the great events that takes place in Providence on select weekends is WaterFire. This fire-filled sculpture installation by Barnaby Evans takes place on three rivers throughout downtown, creating a marvelous spectacle to enjoy the city. While it’s not finalized yet, we are working to see if we can bring WaterFire to our Awards Dinner on Thursday evening. Stay tuned for more information!
As we continue to plan the 2021 Annual Convention, I welcome your feedback. I can be reached at mjensen@ gwt-inc.com. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.
