The convention was held last month in Philadelphia and included representatives from 31 stages and 43 Pennsylvania counties and a wide swath of groups and organizations – nonprofits, government, events, CEOs, tourism, education, etc.

That included Warren County Visitors Bureau Executive Director Casey Ferry.

“All 50 states are getting ready for bigtime celebrations throughout 2026, but PA has taken the reins for the semi-quincentennial and hosted people from around the nation,” Ferry said. “Philadelphia was a fitting host for the national convention.”

The event included historical tours, a wide range of speakers, panel discussions and various breakouts.

The America250PA national convention included a tour of the birth of our nation - Independence Hall.

“It was great to connect with people I’ve already met, such as Anne Ryan (PA Deputy Secretary of Tourism) and people from other CVBs because it reinforces the relationship we have already,” Ferry said. ” It was also an amazing opportunity to meet new people in a variety of roles and begin new relationships.

“When I attend conferences like this, my favorite part is always the people. I leave with connections that have been invaluably helpful in all kinds of ways. Having people in my contact list who have seen my face and know me personally has helped in incalculable ways, and I am happy when I can help others, too.”

The scene around the convention was not lost on Ferry.

“We were blessed to get special access to beautiful, historic places,” she said. “I mean, I was sitting in the spectacular National Constitution Center yards away from former governors with Independence Hall out the window over my shoulder.”

Grant dollars will be available to commemorate the 250th and Ferry acknowledges the “huge” potential there is for events that highlight the nation’s birth.

“I am waiting for the grant information to be released and hope to partner up with some other organizations to apply,” she said. “With Warren County’s rich history, including the fact that we are named after a Revolutionary War hero, the potential is huge for great events, and I look forward to working with other organizations to do it up big.”

In the short-term, though, the convention was a “networking dream,” she said.

“At one point, I ended up at a table right next to former Governor Mark Schweiker. He was so personable and down to earth. I also got to chat with Senator Bob Casey and TV personality Carson Kressley,” she said. “People asked and answered questions, got and gave advice, and shared ideas.”

That networking was part of the goal.

“In addition to gleaning as much knowledge, information, and contacts as I could, I went with the ultimate goal of injecting Warren County into the bigger picture,” she said, “taking every opportunity I could to introduce myself, my organization, my county, and our many, many assets and making connections in commonalities.

“Being present and noticed on a new stage is a big deal for Warren County, and I look forward to marching onward and upward.”