Like most Presidents before me, I can also say that the year went by fast.   It has been a challenging year for the board as we were without an Executive Secretary for almost six months.  The normal full time load of this position was shouldered by all on the board but the brunt was shared by Jeff Bratz, Past President.  Be sure to give him a “high five” and thanks the next time you see him.  Since we hired Caley Mutrie as our full time Executive Secretary/Account Manager in February she has performed as a tireless worker with exemplary skills that has kept us on track.  We are well set for this year’s conference thanks to her.

I have served on the board for seven years now and I can honestly say the current board members we have now are awesome!  I have been constantly amazed at the unique wisdom each one brings to our organization.  Everyone has different skill sets and experiences that together help us make wise and informed decisions.  I would also like to say a big THANK YOU to the many Past Presidents who we have called on for help and opinions.  They all seem to get wiser with age.

Now let’s talk about our 53rd conference in Green Bay.  The board, as well as many other volunteers have put together a terrific venue that should provide something great for everyone.  The Technical secessions and vendor exhibits Wednesday and Thursday are the “heart” of the week long events.  Preceding these will be the ever popular social events Tuesday am, (Golf Outing, Sporting Clays and Bike Ride) and finishing with the “Meet and Greet” Tuesday night.

One certain highlight of the week will be our Keynote speaker, Mr. Alonzo Kelly.  If you have never heard him speak before, come prepared to me motivated and challenged.  Our conference concludes with the Thursday night awards banquet and social and the Operators Farewell Breakfast Friday am.

Please make plans to join us at the conference this year. 

You can register online and find the conference program at: www.wwoa.org.

One final thought, please consider running for a regional officer position or a state board director.  I can promise you that it will help you grow, make our organization better and you will make many great friendships that will last a lifetime.

It has been my pleasure and honor to serve as your president and I look forward to my final year on the board and hopefully at a little slower pace!  J

Sincerely,

Jeff (Juice) Simpson

President