Welcome to THAT Conference!

Precons are happening now, and main registration starts later today. Today we kick off the 7th year of THAT Conference. Every year, today’s the most hectic day for the organizers, but I wanted to take a minute to welcome all of our returning campers and new campers, our wonderful sponsors, our amazing speakers, and the entire cadre of Geeklings and Campmates to THAT Conference 2018!

Thank you all so much for being part of THAT community. We are humbled by the outpouring of support, technical knowledge, and energy at the event every year, and are grateful for the enthusiasm that drives our community year-round through Ask THAT, through the socials, and this publication. THAT Conference isn’t just an event that starts today, but a mindset that persists online in the hearts and minds of the community.

Before Clark kicks off this merry shindig tomorrow morning, there’s already an excitement in the air, and people are already networking, setting up camp, and preparing. A couple notes before we all gather in the big mess tent tomorrow:

• If you didn’t register for a THAT Precon this year, remember to add it to your ticket next year. We’ve had an amazing response to the early hands-on workshops the Sunday prior to the main THAT program.
• When you come down to registration this evening, make it a plan to hang out with us for a while. Meet the sponsors, have some social discussions with your fellow geeks, and introduce yourself to our amazing staff. Don’t worry. We don’t bite any more than a bear in the woods.
• Hope you brought your running shoes. Every day of THAT, we start our day at 6 am outside Double Cut and run through the beautiful Wisconsin countryside and call it THAT 5K. And if you’re not a runner, no worries, there’s enough time to walk the entire 5K and still get a shower and make breakfast and the keynote, we get plenty of walkers each day. Don’t be shy, come out!
• If you didn’t bring your trainers, but still want to move yo body, we still got you covered. This year, we are introducing THAT Yoga! Same 6 am wake up call, so join us in the Crown Palm room in the Conference Center for a guided yoga routine. Stretch, strengthen, and wake up with yoga! Namaste!

For those of you here, welcome. For those of you missing us this year, you’re always a part of the community and are always welcome here. THAT is more than a conference — it’s a community, it’s a family, and we are grateful for all of you.

Now, let’s get this party started!

kpd