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Those motorists of yore who traveled the wide-open spaces of the Far West will remember with fondness this slogan, along with Burma Shave poems, escorting signs proclaiming the wonders awaiting them at “Reno...The World’s Biggest Little City.” Busy interstates have replaced the all-but-empty intermontane motorways of a bygone era, and more’s the pity, but getting to Reno today is a lot easier and faster, even by oxcart. As an added bonus this October, you’ve got a really terrific reason to yoke up your Bos tauri and head for what certainly stands tall among the most exciting “little” cities SWANA has selected to host its annual trade show and conference. Besides the glitter and bustle of the world-class gaming and entertainment establishments and its proximity to the Sierras, Lake Tahoe, and the vast reaches of the Lahontan Valley, Reno is playing host to WASTECON, leading, of course, to the question: Why do we go to trade shows, conventions, conferences, expositions, symposia, or even more casual get-togethers relating to waste management—or whatever? There are probably as many answers as there are attendees at these events, but among them you will likely find such attractions as product and equipment displays, exposure to a broad array of ideas and practices, the opportunity to rub elbows with friends and associates, or the opportunity to network with colleagues from afar, engaging in a wide variety of social activities and taking advantage of a number of training and educational opportunities. In most cases, we settle for one or two or three of these features. But as previous attendees will tell you, WASTECON is particularly special for professionals in the field because it meets all those criteria—and more. Many attendees view WASTECON as an opportunity turn the extensive array of professional training and education programs into a springboard for ad hoc but focused discussions on issues raised in the various presentations. While the sessions themselves may be filled with vital information presented in exciting and even entertaining ways, what I view as the most important aspect is the energy and quality of the many discussions that follow. For one thing, you can be assured that the attendees of a particular session know that no matter what insight and wisdom emanates from the podium, much lively and absorbing debate is sure to take place in the hallways afterward. For another, most presenters to whom I’ve listened and then spoken afterward tell me they look forward to participating in these exit discussions, considering this to be a valuable and rewarding part of the presentation experience as well. But for my money, the real value of WASTECON lies on the trade-show floor, where theory gives way to practice. It’s there that attendees and exhibitors get a chance to focus on the real issues and come up with workable solutions—something that only can happen at an event such as What’s on Tap at WASTECON 2007? Trade Show—Check out the newest equipment, systems, services, and technologies:
Technical Sessions—Learn the latest from top professionals in the field. Concurrent sessions include: Collection and Processing Topics
Diversion Topics
Disposal Topics
Management and Administration Topics
SWANA’s Training Center Courses—By attending SWANA’s training courses, you can meet many different objectives:
Discussion Session in the Exhibit Hall
Social Events—Relax with your colleagues during WASTECON’s evening events: Monday’s Opening Reception and Wednesday’s Networking Event at the National Bowling Stadium. Making the Most of the WASTECON Experience The first step is to sign up for WASTECON 2007(www.swana.org) and then get there, ready to take part in as many activities as your feet and schedule permit. While we all naturally gravitate toward friends and prior associates with whom we feel comfortable, you owe it to yourself and others to make a habit of speaking with strangers and including others in your own discussion groups. Finally, it is important to develop a personal commitment to these discussions. Share your thoughts and experiences with others and listen to what they have to say with the same concern and John Trotti is editor of MSW Management.
MSW - July/August 2007
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