by Maria Wherley
‘Third time’s a charm!’ - This idiomatic expression stands for the good luck in third attempt, and it is a very old proverb. It’s our take on this conference – Design: Beyond the Structures
Postponed twice and now post-pandemic, we’re set to gather together September 12th – 15th to celebrate regionally, as a state, in Berks County—in Pennsylvania's Americana Region!
Under ‘normal’ circumstances with the timing of this issue we’d be in full throttle at the actual conference. Instead, we’re putting finishing touches on the tremendous scope of planned sessions, the array of dynamic mobile tours, along with the time-honored Townies as part of Tuesday evening’s Awards Gala. Our long-awaited conference keynote, Dr. Mariela Alfonzo, bridges the worlds of academia, practice, and entrepreneurship and is an internationally renowned thought leader and speaker. Dr. Alfonzo has 20+ years of experience on the nexus between urban design, behavior, and the triple-bottom line. Mary Means, best known for leading the team that created the National Main Street Center and instrumental in developing Pennsylvania’s Elm Street program, will join us as the closing breakfast keynote.
We’re grateful for the commitment from our sponsors and exhibitors – their partnership is a tremendous testament to the importance of community revitalization. There is still space and time for additional partners – please contact PDC if interested. Year after year, and especially so now, PDC’s annual conference is a much-anticipated event – a culmination and celebration of hard work and determination in our respective communities.
So, join us from start to finish – starting on Sunday in Boyertown with a splendid launch into the conference – if you haven’t yet read Kyle Bailey’s article – now might be a good time to do just that. A special thanks to long-time PDC partner Derck & Edson for sponsoring, in part, Sunday evening’s welcome event. Other highlights include a walking tour of Downtown Reading showcasing the progress made in community development, a taste of West Reading on Monday evening after a stroll along “Dean’s Way”, then taking time on Tuesday to admire the physical improvements of streetscapes, impressive murals, and public art initiatives in downtown Hamburg.
Our host hotel, conveniently situated in the heart of downtown Reading is the Doubletree by Hilton. We’re delighted that during the pandemic the hotel’s creative ‘pivoting’ included establishing a rooftop bee pollinator garden (see image). If you haven’t yet made your overnight reservations – be sure to get in on PDC’s room block.
The past year and a half has demonstrated so much in so many ways – and coming out of a year like no other, this 2021 conference will be like no other. There will be one constant – during our time together—whether in sessions or on tours, at the Townies or simply while networking—we’ll once again find our common ground. Our hope is, as always, that this conference helps you make your town a better place.
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