EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S NOTE

Hope on the horizon

Almost like watching for the first signs of spring, people around the world are starting to see the first hints of life beyond the pandemic. While it won’t go away completely, public health officials are starting to talk about “living” with COVID-19. Let’s hope this is indeed a path forward.

We were lucky to have held our APP Conference in San Diego before the Omicron variant. It was a welcome break from the isolation we’ve all experienced over the last two years — seeing friends and colleagues again in person and building new relationships was a real treat. Equally important, the presentations were engaging, entertaining and relevant, and provided an opportunity for meaningful discussion. While webinars have been a useful tool for keeping up to date on industry activities, nothing can replace the value of gathering in person. Our recap of the Conference — starting on page 41 — proves this. Our many thanks to the sponsors, speakers, and attendees who contributed to the success of the APP’s 107th Annual Conference — especially to our host, the Port of San Diego, who provided great support. Their hospitality will be a challenge for future hosts to meet and surpass.

This newfound hope for a return to in-person gatherings is quickly turning into excitement for our next event — Saipan, Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. At the APP General Meeting in January, it was apparent that Members are eager to meet again amd it was agreed that we should look to hold the conference in September 2022 with final confirmation and dates to be provided by the end of February.

We look forward to this opportunity to visit the Island of Saipan, with its breathtaking beaches, historic sites and, of course, the opportunity to further build relationships and learn from our peers. Stay tuned for our upcoming announcement.

— Jane McIvor

APP PORT MEMBERS