This blog post was provided by Mary Frazier, Procurement Manager – Packaging at Valvoline Global.
With the PPC Semi-Annual Meeting just around the corner, Mary Frazier is counting down the days until a week packed with networking, learning, and plenty of fun in Denver. From teeing off at one of America’s most scenic golf courses to enjoying a lively welcome reception, Mary has her sights set on making the most of every moment. In this post, she shares what she’s most looking forward to—from Sunday’s relaxed pre-conference activities through the inspiring sessions, celebrations, and connections that make the PPC community so special.
Sunday August 24th
Consider traveling to Denver in time to play at one of the ten most photographed golf courses in the world and one of the top 75 courses in America on Sunday August 24th at the PPC Semi-Annual Golf Tournament at Arrowhead Golf Club. The property claims to be “300 million years in the making” based on all of the natural features that you can experience during your round including: extreme elevation changes, wildlife, and thousands of feet of ancient red sandstone rocks towering majestically above the fairways.
Should you choose to stay around the hotel for the day instead and are a female member or spouse, consider joining the Women of the PPC at West Saloon & Kitchen for Brunch. Whether you choose a mimosa or their blood Mary with bacon, and entrees ranging from cookies and creak French toast to a mile high burrito, there is something for everyone. I can assure you that the company and the community you will gain with this group of gals while brunching is the only thing that is better than the menu.
If golf or brunch aren’t something you have interest in, consider learning more about Pickleball! Sunday also offers an opportunity for all levels of play to visit the Mile Hi Pickleball crew. Whether you choose to play or watch, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the sport and get to explore within the Denver area.
My favorite event on Sunday is the Welcome Reception at 6 p.m. on Sunday. For me, it is a nice way to network with new members and connect with people that I may not be able to connect with once things kick into high gear on Monday.
Monday – August 25th
I know many of our members like to start their days off being physical before becoming more sedentary with some of the meetings we will have on Monday, so I would recommend you consider joining the 5K Fun Run/Walk organized by members of the PPC community. I have completed this event as both a runner and a walker, and for me it provides a nice way to get some time outside of the hotel and to see some of the city and views around me.
I make it a point to attend all of the presentations during the PPC conference and the presenters and topics for this round of meetings is no exception. This year’s keynote speaker Jim Craig from the 1980 US Hockey Team who recorded 36 saves and was a key contributor to bringing home Olympic gold. If you would like to catch up before the PPC on this teams story, you can watch Miracle on Ice places where you watch media including Disney+, Prime Video, and Netflix.
With more speakers, panels and time in the afternoon for break out meetings with other attendees, Monday is going to be a full day of events. Which makes the Happy Hour Reception at 5 p.m. an even more welcome event, giving me a chance to discuss the day’s activities with other attendees and to continue to build relationships with new and existing members alike.
Tuesday – August 26th
In my five years attending the PPC, I have never missed a TEC breakfast and this conference is no exception. This event hosted by the Technical Education Committee gives me an opportunity to sit with members of the PPC and discuss areas of interest that I have for future speakers, presenters or topics for future conferences. This event also affords me time to hear from others at the event as to what topics or themes are being discussed within their networks and communities. Many great ideas have come from these table chats and the sharing of ideas.
Of course, the fun and learning continues Tuesday with speakers and panelists Tuesday morning, there is still time for meetings and one on ones later in the day, with the day ending with a cocktail hour before the main event – the 75th Anniversary Denim & Diamonds themed celebration dinner. Not only will we recognize the achievements of a variety of people from throughout the conference, but we will also formally thank our current president Iris Thomas for her service over the past year and welcome our next President for 2026, Henry Wolfe.
Looking forward to seeing everyone in a few weeks in Colorado!