July 22, 2008
As we wrap up another conference, I would like to thank everyone who attended for helping to make it a success. For those who could not attend because of commitments or budgets, we hope to see you in 2009! The board received a lot of positive feedback about the quality of the speakers and sessions that were offered. All of the evaluations from 2008 will be compiled and reviewed to help plan 2009. Anyone who has suggestions for future conferences, please let us know. Your input is important to maintaining quality training.
The board will continue to work with Quantum and Mad City Event Marketing as they fundraise for DARE America. This has been a bumpy road, but I think we are making progress. A change in Coordinators at Mad City will take place in August. This should help many of the communication issues. All of the over 1,000 donated items brought to the conference by Mad City were gone in less than a day. Hopefully these items will help offset incentive costs for some of you.
For those who did not attend the conference: The topic of Conference costs came up several times. As attendees dip below 100 and food, hotel, and speaker fees raise, it is becoming more and more difficult to maintain a 3 day training at the level everyone has come to expect. We are lucky that many speakers take significant discounts or come for free for us. In the coming months, the board will have to look at where cuts could be made ie: eliminate breakfast or a dinner, No national speakers, No snack breaks, limit printed material etc… My hope is to find a sponsor for the conference or to have the agreement with Mad City bring enough income to cover all of the expenses so that is not necessary. If you have a strong feeling about any of those issues, please contact a board member. All emails are available at www.darewisconsin.org I would like to have your input now, rather than a complaint at the conference.
Anyone who did not get their dues in: It is not too late to keep your membership current, the conference account is still open. You can send a check for $20 to WDOA 2008 att: Rick Jeske, 333 Vine ST La Crosse WI 54601
The 2009 WDOA conference will be held July 13th – 15th at the Radisson in Glendale. Joel Dhein has agreed to chair the conference and already has several great speakers lined up. Watch for a post card reminding you to register at www.darewisconsin.org. I will continue to send updates about the conference as they are appropriate.
Finally: (yes finally!) If your program has an issue, you need a letter of support, or any other question, please do not hesitate to call me. I will be happy to help you or find resources for you if I am able. Email and Cell are the two best ways to get a hold of me.
I hope everyone’s summer
Deputy John Siegel
La Crosse County Sheriff's Department
siegel.johh@co.la-crosse.wi.us
Office: 608 -785-6188
Cell: 608-769-6048
"Uncommon Quality From People Who Care"
