2010 WCCAA Conference

Somewhere Over The Rainbow

The 34th annual WCCAA Conference was held on February 24, 25, and 26 at the Radisson Hotel and Conference Center in Green Bay. It was well attended with many new members. The title and theme of the conference was “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” and the decorations were designed to emphasize that. We had a rainbow colored arch made of balloons over the registration table. Each conference attendee received a welcome “snack” bag with rainbow treats. The table decorations were flower pots with lollipop flowers that were used as door prizes. There was even a “yellow brick road” to walk on which pointed the way to all of the conference rooms.

Wednesday’s sessions were different this year and offered two hours of training on two hot topics. These were also offered as tiered trainings. The first workshop was with Anne Carmody speaking on “Licensing Updates”. This year, Anne was joined by Kath McGurk (DWD) and Erin Mankoske-Anderson (Region 4 Licensing Chief). The topics ranged from transportation to the new YoungStar proposal. As always, there were many questions and not enough time to answer everything. The second speaker was Jim Rittgers (Racine) who shared with us his expertise on “Employment Laws”. Again, there were many questions. Jim had a way of sharing information in a comfortable and easy-going manner which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.

Wednesday evening was relaxing with a Wine and Cheese reception where conference attendees could mix and network with old friends and make new friends at the same time. Anne Carmody and Kath McGurk also attended and conversations continued on subjects that had been touched on in the afternoon.

Thursday offered a surprise with a Native American drum group to perform a welcome ceremony to the conference participants to open the annual meeting. That evening, we had our yearly Silent Auction and banquet but again with something new. A Native American Storyteller joined us and charmed everyone with his presentation. He was wonderful in his telling of thought provoking stories of life which brought tears to many eyes.

Our keynote speaker was Chip Donahue who spoke on Friday morning. Chip’s keynote theme was “We’re Off to See The Wizard: Administration 2.0” which included the new and emerging technology and how it offers promise for programs by improving communication, exchanging ideas and information, and sharing resources. As always, Chip intertwined what he wanted to say with humor and an easy going deliverance.

This year’s WCCAA Recognition Award went to Beryl Anders from Green Bay. Beryl was one of our founding members of the WCCAA organization back in 1976. Beryl’s family was present along with many of her friends. Her sons made a video of Beryl’s “accomplishments” over the years and it was hilarious. We were all very proud of her. We also had the honor of having Reggie Bicha, Secretary of the Department of Children and Families, with us at the luncheon. He congratulated Beryl on her years of service and the organization for the work that we have done over the years.

The conference was a huge success with very favorable evaluations. It was a relaxing and pleasurable time mixed in with trainings that were fun and educational.

Thank you to all the helpers who set up and coordinated the Conference. Thank you to all the participants for making it a huge success!
- Bonnie Paisar & Mary Madsen

Click here to see photos of the conference

Conference Testimonials

The conference was a great opportunity to re-charge and take some terrific new ideas back to our program.
- Regina Kane
The Caring Center/Verona Montessori House
Verona, WI
Region 1

Chip Donahue was a great Keynote speaker. His technology knowledge was amazing. The breakout sessions were diverse and interesting, and the meals and location were enjoyable. The silent auction was fun, and I was lucky to win four items! Great fun!!! P.S. the scarves were a treat.
- Joan Beck
Willows Christian Child Care Center
Iron Ridge, WI
Region 2

The honoree for the Recognition Award and the video made by her sons was the funniest thing I’ve ever seen! As a newcomer, you made me feel very welcome.
- Lesley Salas
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI
Region 3

“Somewhere Over the Rainbow” was an awesome professional development opportunity for me. Not only were the sessions I attended worth my while, but also the networking opportunities were abundant so that I was able to spend time learning from other professionals in the early care and education field.
- Deborah Komp, Administrator
ThedaCare Child Learning Center
Appleton, WI
Region 4

I’m already looking forward to next year’s WCCAA Conference. The workshops are so worthwhile. I look forward to the continued education and to the networking with administrators from all over the state.
- Ann Potter
Our Shepherd Childcare
Appleton, WI
Region 4

The 2010 WCCAA Conference was a wonderful opportunity for professional development and networking. The knowledge and relationships I gained were well worth the trip. Thank you!
- Leighanne Dockerty
Kids’ Safari Learning Center
Cottage Grove, WI
Region 1

Each year my Directors excitedly wait for the Conference Brochure and start planning which sessions they will attend. When they return to the center, they immediately use the valuable information to make our centers even better!
- Sue Babcock
Child Care Centers of Marshfield
Marshfield, WI
Region 5

As a first year member attending this conference, I found it very informative on current proposals affecting centers. Also, there were some great learning sessions. Everyone was very helpful and welcoming!
- Colette Babcock
Li’l Rascals World Children Center
Mauston, WI
Region 6

This was my 18th WCCAA Conference. It was very well organized, and had tons of networking and opportunities for professional growth and peer relating. Speakers were prepared and had diverse topics. Can’t wait until next year!
- Verna Drake
Westby Day Care & Learning Center
Westby, WI
Region 6

As an owner of child care centers in southern Wisconsin, I sincerely enjoyed the WCCAA 2010 Conference. The expertise of the presenters, as well as exhibitors, was very beneficial. A huge thanks to Bonnie & Mary for an excellent job well done!
- Laura Jo Pearson
Kiddie Ranch Childcare Centers
Beloit, WI
Region 1