An Active and Engaged Organization - Join in the Fun
As I write this the days are getting shorter (which luckily helps with getting the kids to go to bed) and it seems that summer will be over soon. While the season brings images of relaxation and ease, many CSWEA members and leaders have been busy working to support our membership and industry. A number of events have occurred and additional State Section events will be held by the time you read this.
CSWEA CSX 2011 was held July 20-21, 2011 at the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells. This annual event is an opportunity for executive committee members, State Section leadership and all committee members to exchange ideas and information on activities being held across the three states to advance our organization. A big idea from last year was the YP Leadership Academy that was implemented this April. Thanks to Rich Hussey and all of the speakers for making the inaugural event a success. This example makes it clear that getting our leadership together can result in new benefits to our membership. I am glad to report that we had great attendance at CSX 2011 and an excellent exchange. Eighteen people attended including all three State Section Chairs! This provided a great opportunity for the State Section Chairs to spend time sharing the activities in their states and discuss ways to improve our service to each section's membership.
The progress the Minnesota Section is making on Liquid Assets Minnesota to educate the public, elected officials and regulators about the importance of investing in our infrastructure was shared. The efforts of many in the MN Section, especially Andrew Sullivan, are impressive. Over $46,000 has been raised, filming is underway as I write, and airing is expected this fall. Check www.blueprintminnesota.com for more information.
A major topic of the exchange was discussing our Annual Conference and brainstorming ideas to continue to meet the needs of our membership. I would like to note that all in attendance believe that our Annual Conference is a great event. However, we want to stay current with membership needs to maintain the tradition that the conference is THE event to attend. Both near-term ideas for next year's conference and longer-term potential improvements were discussed. Break-out groups on conference duration/events, exhibitions, and technical program discussed current strengths and new ideas for the future. An ad-hoc committee has been formed with Patti Craddock as chair to continue to develop these ideas.
July 31 - August 3, 2011 was the first WEF Energy and Water Conference in Chicago co-sponsored by CSWEA, IWEA and many other organizations. The conference was very interesting with many new technologies and ways to more effectively utilize our water resources and energy presented. Thanks to the many CSWEA YPs that served as moderators at the conference. As noted by the opening keynote speaker, the demands for water, wastewater treatment, and energy will continue to grow tremendously throughout the world over the upcoming decades and all of you are at the forefront in meeting these needs while providing reliable protection of the environment. I think this was a successful conference that will continue to grow over the years.
Many other State Section events will have taken place from the time I write this to your reading. WEFTEC may be starting or just completed, with a CSWEA Executive Meeting and the joint CSWEA-IWEA Reception on the Sunday, October 16th. Special thanks for Jim Huchel and our sponsors for making the joint reception one of the best networking opportunities at WEFTEC! I hope I will have gotten to talk with many of you there to gain your insights on how we can continue to improve in being of service to the membership and industry.
On a personal note, I have joined the Fox River Water Reclamation District (FRWRD). My current contact information is published in this issue of Central States Water. I know that CSWEA provides me with an opportunity to network with experienced colleagues gaining valuable insights for my new position.
In conclusion, CSWEA members continue to strive to improve in serving the public. There are many activities coming up and much that has occurred since my first message. If you aren't actively involved yet in CSWEA, I hope this summary demonstrates that: many excellent opportunities exist to get active, you will be serving with some exceptional people, and your input can help to continue shaping our organization. Have a great fall and feel free to contact me or any of the CSWEA leadership with your ideas and interests!
