President's Message

Spring is around the corner.  As I write to you, Punxsutawney Phil said six more weeks of winter February 2, that was seven weeks ago.  The clock had to spring ahead one hour.  The official start of Spring is March 20.  Last, but not least, the Brewers open the 2018 season in Milwaukee April 2.  So, as the season of renewal begins, let us also renew our pledge to keep our water clean and the supply plentiful.  With every Spring comes a warmth and burst of energy to get us motivated, to get moving again on all those warm weather projects that ended last fall because it was getting too cold.  As the sun rises higher into the sky it gives us the hope of another great year to come.  My friends, one thing is sure, the plans are set for another prosperous and busy year.  Don’t forget to contact the schools in your area, offer them tours of your facility or an in-school talk about this great profession we are a part of.  Without our help, the clean water supply wouldn’t be what it is today.  Clean lakes to swim and fish in.  Clean rivers to canoe down.  Clean streams and ponds to replenish that water supply.

The Technical Committee and Chair, Jeff Smudde, have met and put together another fantastic program for everyone.  All of us will have abundant opportunity to enhance our operational skills and get the credits needed to continue serving our communities.  We have added a fourth track of classes to give you the best opportunity to see the great presentations that were submitted.  Septage is again on the schedule for the haulers to stay ahead of the changing rules and earn their credits.  Mark your calendar – attendance registration will open on Monday, June 4, 2018.  Conference Program Booklet will be mailed to everyone the middle of May.

The Operators Competition coming off of another record year of teams, is hoping that we will supply them with more teams than last year.  Rick Mealy, Committee Chair, said commitments are already coming in for teams.  If you are thinking about it, jump in, we know the water is clean.  Tell your Regional Officers you are willing to meet the challenge and be part of the team!  It will be an outstanding event and a great time to be had by all.

I would ask that when you see our vendors and sponsors, thank them for their continued support of WWOA and its members.  I can tell you that they are planning a special event for the Annual Convention in Lake Geneva.  Hospitality rooms were abundant in years past but time have changed that.  I would suggest, when the registration opens for the Conference, you check the events schedule.  Look for something different for Wednesday after dinner.  And if you haven’t done already so, make sure to reserve your room(s) at the Grand Geneva Resort.  Hotel registration information is on the WWOA website under Organization and then click on Annual Conference.   Don’t miss out on what is shaping up to be an excellent conference.