108th Annual Convention Wrap Up

Connecticut PTA’s 108th Convention was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cromwell. The venue was spacious and accommodating.

Thursday evening, May 1st began our convention with a fun-filled Reflections Recognition dinner. Bob Maxon from WNBC Channel 30 was the master of ceremonies. Over 300 children, parents, and families attended. A fun time was had by all. Louise Scotty, our Reflections Chair, coordinated a very successful event.

Meanwhile Bryan Fiese inspired the PTA leadership with his message of parenting in the 21st century. PTA members enjoyed a nice meal while Bryan spoke. After our dinner presentation, we broke-out into several leadership workshops tailored for each office: President, Treasurer, Secretary, and OMDR data system for membership.

Friday morning began with an enthusiastic welcome of our many vendors. Mike Taylor and Jim Accomodio provided much needed organizational direction to our many vendors. We greatly appreciate their efforts. The exhibition hall was full of new ideas: fundraising experts, service organizations, enrichment programs, and the Department of Environmental protection promoting “No Child Left Inside”.

Anita Renfroe began our morning General Session will laughter and love. Her message of parenting encouraged us and had us laughing off of our chairs.

The various morning workshops enlightened all members. They included: parenting topics such as Ready by 5, Fine by 9, Transition for the Exceptional Child, and Social Skills within the Positive Behavior Support Plan. Pam Harvey led a standing room only workshop on leadership skills discovering that it is “Easy to Lead!” Current legislation issues were discussed with our VP of Legislation, Mike Taylor. Marjorie Clark, Hamden Council President, led a dynamic Website Design Basics workshop.

Our luncheon general session was jam-packed with guests. Gina McCarthy, commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, was our keynote speaker. She shared her message of “No child left Inside” along with fond childhood memories of her own revolving around outdoor play and activity. Many membership awards were presented as well as the passing of a resolution on Automated External Defibrillator policy.

The Nutmeg State PTA held their annual meeting and presented their two Janet E. Petkus Grants to graduating seniors who will persue a career in service to children. Carol Duggan and her committee also held two raffles with dozens of raffle baskets to benefit this scholarship fund. Thank you to Carol and her fine group of dedicated members.

The evening gala was a success and enjoyed by all. Music, games, and dancing complimented a festive atmosphere where individuals were awarded Honorary Lifetime Membership Awards as well as Spirit of PTA Awards.

In closing, our convention met its goal to invite and convene our members. Although not all 52,000 attended, they were well represented by enthusiastic, caring, supportive members who were energized to move forward with sharper leadership skills and as importantly, with meaningful parenting skills.

The Annual Convention is truly a year long effort primarily accomplished by Connecticut PTA’s dedicated staff: a special thanks to Holly Schmidt, Laura & Annie Balderelli, Evie Michaud and especially Sally Boske for their steadfast support, commitment and faith in Connecticut PTA.

Submitted By:
Faith Douglass, VP Convention