CHHA Newsletter - Special Edition

The Wizard of Oz 2023 Conference

By Shawn Bolger

The anticipation had been building for several months as we planned and researched topics, discussed timelines and strategies, organized speakers and activities. Everyone could feel the excitement and no one was happier than the CHHAAdvisory Council members to be moving towards the annual June event.

Finally, we had all the plans in place so last minute adjustments to the agenda and session schedules were underway, emails were flying back and forth, Zoom meetings, notes taken and reminders sent.

Everyone had their instructions, rooms were assigned and all that was left to do was a little last minute shopping,finishing touches on some props and decorations then finally the packing.

Travel day arrives, the car is loaded with some very strange items for sure.

Tornado Times

The CHHAWizard of Oz Conference in review!

Introduction, Golf, Meet and Greet, and Prizes

Page – 1 to 6

Jim Gauthier Retirement and 2022/2023 in Review

Page – 7 to 8

Lions andTigers and Bears – Oh My

Page – 9

Prize Donations and Winners

Page – 10 to 11

Entertainment lineup for the Hospitality Suites

Page – 12 to 13

Scavenger Challenge and Sessions/RoundTables

Page – 14 to 18

Costume Contest, Newbies and Cleaning for a Reason

Page – 19 to 21

Testimonials and Reflections

Page – 22 to 24

Check off the list:

● Car gassed up

● LCBO supplies in cooler bag

● Suitcases in car

● Boxes of tin cans and accessories in car for tinman building

● Buckets in car for witch splashing contest

● Scarecrow costume packed, glue gun just in case

● Witch in the car! Wait what kind of conference are you going to???

● Grandkids out of the car

● Grammie crying uncontrollably….kleenex box in hand!

● Music on!

● Ready to go

Road trips are one of my favourite things to do. I love exploring places I’ve never been before and seeing new things!

So driving up north with the tunes cranked up is always a great day especially if the sun is shining! During the trip, you reach a certain point when your go to classic rock radio station is no longer clear enough to listen to, so you’re searching for local options and while you adjust your radio and your expectations, the stress of family obligations, city life and work responsibilities all wash away like drops of rain.

I have a long history with Fern Resort so for me it is a very special place. I once attended a wedding there in the early 80s and I drive by it several times a year on my way to visit friends and family members in Haliburton.Years ago, I lived and worked in Haliburton and my family has cottaged there for years so seeing that sign has always been a beacon that brings back good memories and a smile to my face.This area is very familiar to me, so much so I actually drove through Orillia a few weeks before the conference on my way up north and stopped to lay flowers on the steps of a church and to pay tribute to Gordon Lightfoot on the day before his funeral.

Finally, I arrive and the Fern sign is in my sight! Deep inhale, followed by a quick exhale and relief floods through me as I take in the beauty that is bestowed upon me from the willowy trees blowing in the breeze and the picturesque waterfront to the well maintained grounds and colourful flower beds!This is our home away from home for the next 5 days! Paradise!

For the first 2 days on the resort, we were busy preparing for the conference with more planning, organizing, stuffing swag bags and finalizing the details of the scavenger challenge.

On day 3 for theAdvisory council but day 1 for conference goers, the anticipation of seeing old friends and meeting new acquaintances was growing and you could feel the positive vibes in the air as delegates and vendors started showing up to register at the desk.This is my favourite time, everyone is so happy to be there and they are looking forward to what has been planned for the next 3 days, their enthusiasm is contagious and everyone is smiling, laughing, and sharing stories about their journey to get there with other conference attendees.

The sense of purpose, connection, unity, fellowship and yes…….family is quite evident at the C.H.H.A conference every year.The camaraderie is apparent as people come together, old friends are reunited and introductions are made.There is nothing like the satisfaction you feel from being with others who can truly relate to you, to talk to people who fully understand what your world and work demands entail because they have experienced the same things and they get you! It is a profound experience and it inspires me to be a better EVS Leader.

Suddenly, your new reality sets in and the feeling of freedom finally arrives! Woo hooo!

We made a few trips to town to purchase beverages, snacks and supplies so the daytime hours were full and in the evening, we managed to get in some down time to walk around the grounds and take in the amazing tranquil environment. On the 2nd day, we were joined by a few guests that were early arrivals and we were able to catch up at supper and indulge in a few special Fern Resort margaritas.

As for the conference activities, everything is now in progress and you are about to get blown away!

Golf

By all accounts, it was a beautiful day in the neighbourhood and a great day for a golf tournament!

Much like the Wizard of Oz, which was based on events during a tornado, there were a few wind related close calls but it didn’t seem to damper the spirits of the golfers! In keeping with the theme of the conference, all participants battened down the hatches and the event went off without a hitch!Andy Hendriks, our master of all things golf, took great care to ensure the teams were organized, well-nourished and hydrated, behaving in true CHHAconference form and keeping honest with their scorecards!

All participants enjoyed the unique layout of the Scottish Highlands Golf course on Monck Rd, Ramara, Ontario for the 2nd year in a row!

Golf Teams Strike a Pose!

Meet Murray andTim

Meet the swans

Enjoy the beauty of the Scottish Highlands Golf course!

Hair and makeup done, casual clothing selected, name tags on and let the party begin!

Such a fine looking group of Munchkins!

It is really the first time everyone comes together as a group and you are able to get a look at the people you will be spending the next 3 days with.

The location is perfect, set by the lake and poolside, add a few adult beverages and everyone is relaxed and socializing as planned.

“If I ever go looking for my desire again, I won’t look any further than my own backyard. Because if it isn't there, I never really lost it to begin with!

CHHAGolf Winners 2023

Women’s Longest Drive

Nicole Evans

Men’s Longest Drive

Geoff Bryant

Men’s Closest to Pin

John Riches

Woman’s Closest to Pin

Sue MacNeil

Winning Team

John Riches, Bill French, John Petropoulos, Jeremy Carpenter

Most Honest Team

Nicole Evans, Leanne Peacock, Sue MacNeil,

Happy Retirement Jim Gauthier!

On behalf of the CHHAcommunity, we would like to express our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to you for your unwavering dedication and contribution to our members and organization.

As a long-standing member of CHHA and OHHA, even before your tenure with Diversey, you have been an integral part of our community and have shown exceptional commitment and passion toward our cause.

Anytime you were asked to provide a session for us, you jumped in with both feet, without hesitation.Your invaluable insights, wisdom, and expertise have helped us to grow and thrive as an organization, and we are truly grateful for your support over the years!

Your enthusiasm to always participate in our themed events and your talent

A note from Jim Gauthier

Jim would like to thank all of the CHHAconference organizers and participants for his retirement send- off! Wendy surprised Jim with some lovely, heart-felt words and a card signed by one and all was presented along with Jim’s favorite Canadian Whiskey - Forty Creek, in the large economy sized bottle, which he only thought could be found in theAmerican Costco!

Jim has worked with Wendy and the CHHAthrough the OHHAdays, and probably first presented to this group in Kingston when the conference was at St. Lawrence College...he seems to remember walking across the street from Providence Care Mental Health site, presenting, and going back to work!

Jim hopes to stay in touch with CHHA...and could be lured out of retirement with the right topic to pontificate on!

Jim Jim Gauthier, MLT, CIC Senior ClinicalAdvisor, Infection Prevention

“Lions and Tigers and Bears – Oh My!!”

The Buzz Collin’s session, left the group feeling both entertained and inspired by exploring the power of the mind and the role it plays in overcoming fear and self-doubt. The session focused on the ways negative thinking can limit us from experiencing life’s opportunities, only to discover later, these thoughts are often unfounded. Buzz used his expertise as a clinically trained hypnotist to show the group how hypnosis can be a tool for self-empowerment and personal growth by removing negative barriers for selected participants, allowing those individuals to be unhindered and open to suggestion. Buzz helped us understand how to overcome our fears and self-doubt with a blend of insights, entertainment and laughter. During the session, Buzz demonstrated how our personal goals and professional successes can be more attainable when we learn how to navigate our fears and unlock our full Potential.

Buzz shared stories and experiences with the group as well as his belief that taking control of our thoughts can help us confront and overcome our challenges and fears.

“Lions and Tigers and Bears – Oh My!!”, was a session filled with self-discovery and enlightenment wrapped up in a truly amusing event.

Prize Donations and Winners

Bluetooth Speaker

Altro Canada

Christine Mecke

Tens UnitThera 3 Massage

AMG Medical

Rachelle Peacock

$100Amazon Gift Card

Busch Systems

Erin Campbell

20 Bottle Koolatron Wine Cooler Bunzl

Steve Walker

$100.00 LCBO Gift Card

CHHA

Katherine DaSilva

Home Products Gift Basket Clorox

Christopher Hills

$50.00 LCBO GC Daniels

Nicole Evans

4 Blue JaysTickets Diversey

Carolynne De Boer

AERO 15 Vacuum

Diversey

Kyle McLaughlin

Tundra 75Yeti Cooler

Essity

Anthony Stocks

“Summer Fun Cooler”

Forbo Flooring

Sue MacNeil

Prize Donations And Winners

6 PieceTowel Set

George Courey

Carolynne De Boer

$50.00 LCBO GC

Hygiene Performance Solutions

Jennifer Soulliere

Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner

IntersteamTechnologies

Leanne Peacock

JBLWireless Headphones

Kimberley Clark

Nicole Mero

JBLWireless Headphones

Kimberley Clark

Jeremy Carpenter

$100.00 Petro Canada GC Kruger

JenniferAscott

$100.00 Petro Canada GC Kruger

$25.00 Starbucks GC

Metrex

Angie Brunetti

$50.00Amazon GC

MIP

Barb Cockwell

$50.00 Visa GC

NilfiskAdvance

Vikram Hundal

$50.00 Visa GC

NilfiskAdvance

Sharon Hudson

$50.00 CTGC

Process Cleaning Solutions

Nicole Pelletier

$50.00 CTGC

Process Cleaning Solutions

Armen Kokorian

Sanitare Vacuum

Sanitare/Motorscrubber

Ayisha Kerr

YETI Hopper Portable Soft Cooler Stericycle

Congratulations

Door Prize Winners!!

$50.00

Entertainment lineup for the Hospitality Suites

Night one Hospitality suite sponsored by MIPand Stericycle

DJ Steve entertained with a variety of songs from the 60s, 70s and 80s and beyond then opened up the mic to the CHHAsuperstars of karaoke!

Photo Booths are always a big hit and DJ Steve’s wifeAmy, provided the Wizard of Oz props and camera for another session of smiles, fun and laughter. Thank goodness, there were no flying monkeys!

Night Two Hospitality suite sponsored by all Vendors

The Rob Kirkham and Neon Rain band had many dancing into the night with his unique style of country, southern and classic rock music.

Teams

Team 1-MIP

Jennifer Soulliere, Kelly Coppard

Nicole Mero, Carolynne De Boer

Sharon Hudson, Kanathea Da Costa

Scavenger Challenge

Station #1 .......Find Toto and return him safely to Dorothy. Paddle boat race

Station #2 .......Splash the witch and end her reign of terror. Fill the bucket race

Station #3 ......Sing a song to Auntie Em Singing competition

Station #4 .......Build a tinman with the materials available be creative and make him fancy!

Station #5 .......Put the Ruby slippers back on the witch find the slippers then locate the witch

Station #6 ......Follow the yellow brick road Knock down the obstacle with your brick! Throwing challenge

Station #7 .......Dress a team member as a scarecrow with material available.

Station #8 .......How many flying monkeys can you hit? Mini putt challenge

Station #9 .......Did anyone see a birdie flying over the rainbow?

Badminton challenge

Station #10 .......The horse of a different colour tossed a shoe and now so should you! Horseshoe challenge

Geoff Bryant, Nicole Simpson

Team 2-Essity

Jennifer Viger, John Riches

Angie Brunetti, Heather Cosh

Bruce Ferguson, David Smith

Adam O’Neill, Bill French

Team 3-Daniels-Dream Team

Armen Kokorian, Vikram Hundal

Chris Hills, Jeremy Carpenter

Dalton Loveday, Selena Seguin

Meaghan Sloan, Mohit Karkare

MattAdams

WINNERS!!!

Team 4-Diversey

Patricia Todd, Brooke Paxton

Davin Ciglen, Sean Bailey

MarkAmbler, Erin Campbell

NicoleAllard, Kyle McLaughlin

Team 5-Intersteam Royal Flushers

Leanne Peacock, Nicole Evans

Rachelle Peacock, Sue MacNeil

Steve Walker,Amanda Gellatly

Chris Johnson, Sylvia Johnson

Karen Barnes

Team 6-Stericycle

Wes Ellis,Anita Castanheira

Nicole Pelletier, Ginette Morin

Denise Henrie

Team 7-Clorox

Brent Mayer, Katherine Da Silva

Michael Kiskunas, Noel Laurella

Deandra Granville-Anderson

Lee Hon, Vanessa McFadden

Teresa Boock, Shelly Baker

Team 9-Nilfisk

Trevor Ludolph, Wil Zehr

Larry Whiting,Amanda Little

Ann Marie Hearn, Mark Heller

Team 10-Vileda

Pam Naujokaitis, OlhaTytsyak

Christine Mecke, Bob Rockbrune

Toni Moran,Terri Stashick

Ayisha Kerr

What did you like most about the event?

Education/speakers/round tables/vendors - it's all great!!

The casual dress codes! CHHA does an EXCEPTIONALjob providing opportunities for more informal, casual interactions amongst vendors and delegates, which is greatly appreciated. I think this really allows for more genuine relationship building instead of very short-term transactional interactions and is good for both delegates and vendors.

I love interacting and meeting colleagues from all over as well as the vendors and the work They put in. I think our business is built around good people who work hard, and I love that this event celebrates that.

The relevant content and delegates related to our business in a very casual atmosphere.

Increased the level of interaction significantly.

I liked that the event was down to earth, and you could be yourself. It was not like other events where everyone is trying to impress each other with fancy clothes and updos. This was my first CHHA event and I came alone.

What did you like least about the event?

Nothing stood out! It was all great. I wish on check-in it was a little easier to get our rooms closer together (for example, all our people were spread out in different buildings; it would have been nice if we could have been closer together). But that’s a pretty minor inconvenience from 2022/2023. Thanks for everything!!

There wasn’t enough time this year to visit the booths before the scorecards had to be handed in.

Hmm... the only thing that really was off-putting was the bugs, welcome to the outdoors at lakeside ha-ha.

It’s busy but it is good! I can’t say I don’t like anything really! I will attend regardless on the location!

Start time in the morning. Next year venue closer for southern sites- make way back up to Fern resort after a couple years :)

Everyone was super friendly, and I made some great connections.

The Wizard of Oz Sessions with industry

professional experts

From the start of the Journey until it's time to leave the Emerald City – Best Practices for Hiring-Performance Management and

Terminations

Jeffrey Stewart-Sherrard Kuzz LLP presented information on topics that are currently affecting healthcare and almost every workplace across Canada including the challenges and opportunities of the recruitment and termination process. Jeffery also shared tips to consider when hiring, performance managing, and when an employment relationship has come to an end.This session offered information from the perspective of a well-known and trusted lawyer with many years of experience employment and labour law.

Before joining his current law firm, Jeffrey worked as an Employee RelationsAdvisor with Ontario Public Service, providing labour relations advice to the Ministry of theAttorney General.

The Wizardry ofAuditing Cleanliness?

Mark Heller, Hygiene Performance Solutions and Katherine Dl Silva, Halton Health discussed topics such as the importance of an effective cleaning and disinfection strategy, appropriate cleaning protocols supported by the right products and well-trained staff to deliver the right outcome.

They also presented information regarding the follow-up and asked tough questions such as:

How do we know the desired outcome is being achieved?

How can we measure the return on our investment in people, products, and equipment?

Who audits?

How do you audit?

How do you use the information gathered to improve your results?

Mark and Katherine spoke to their experiences and challenges implementing quality auditing technology and discussed the elements of an effective audit platform and highlighted the factors to consider when choosing and implementing an auditing program for your facility.

Follow the Horizontal Infection Prevention Road to Better Patient Care

Jim Gauthier, MLT, CIC and Mark Ambler, Infection Prevention Specialists, Diversey presented information regarding infection control and addition precaution protocols.

They explained how sometimes, we get fixated on: MRSA, VRE, CPO, CDI and lose sight of the bigger picture. Staff can become complacent when situations or practices change and they are told a bad bug might be present in the healthcare environment.

This presentation reviewed practices all staff can do all the time to limit the spread of all microorganisms: Horizontal Infection Prevention.

Discussion Key Points: Review the chain of transmission and methods to break the links.

Discuss practices for all care, from all care providers that will limit the spread of most pathogens that are of concern within healthcare.

Wizard of Oz Round Tables “Put ‘em up! Put ‘em up!”

THURSDAY

“Someone burned my broom, and now it’s not working!” Microfibre vs Disposable Wipes. Mark Ambler-Diversey, Michael Derro-Clorox, Michael Rochon-PCS

Aprofessional review of the benefits and pitfalls of using microfibre vs disposable wipes for healthcare cleaning.The panel experts also discussed impending technology that may change the way we training for and carry out healthcare cleaning in the future.

Lessons from the discussion:

a) Microfibre cleaning technology is not dead!There may be hope on the horizon!

b)Disposable wipes are not the enemy! Can be cost effective and not necessarily bad for the environment when all factors are considered!

Facilitator - Shawn Bolger

Scribe - Lori Bowerman

our environment looks beautiful on the surface but how do we keep dangerous things out of our environment? Meaghan Sloan-Daniels, Wes Ellis-Stericycle

Areview of special waste handling, segregation, and efficient monitoring. Panel experts discussed the ECA(Environmental Compliance Approval) as a permission that allows businesses to operate their facility or site with environmental controls that protect human health and the natural environment.

Lessons from the discussion:

All agreed that in respect of waste, classification is the biggest challenge for most establishments. To address this challenge, the following tips were suggested:

a) ensure that the pharmaceutical container is in the right area.

b) use the audit to validate.

c) work on education (if it does not come out of your body = biomedical container).

d) Size of bag – there are different size bags – highlight the difference.

e) Environmental Services Staff –High turnover – poster on bins to provide visual signs of what goes In.

Discussion around the different pathogens and how some are difficult to detect; Candida auris, MCR and Monkeypox, and Sars, Covid; C diff is still a challenge. There was further discussion on contact time as there is still some uncertainty about the interpretation of contact time.

Lessons from the discussion:

a)The importance of knowing how to build a disinfection program for any pathogen.

b)Selecting the right product is key, and having a positive partnership with the supplier to ensure you have support after the purchase and/or demo is also important.

Scribe

“Now, my beauties something with poison in it but attractive to the eye and soothing to the smell. Poppies, poppies will put them to sleep!” Sometimes

Facilitator - Julie Hoeflaak

– Denise Henrie

“How to avoid getting caught in the eye of the Tornado” Emerging Illnesses and how to Combat them”. Jim Gauthier-Diversey, Mark Heller-Hygiene Performance Solutions

Facilitator - John Petropoulos

Scribe - Frank Zuuring

FRIDAY

“Someone Landed a House on Me! Now I can’t Work!” Injuries in the workplace and how to avoid them. Jacqueline Bacon-OSMH, Rory Daniel-OSMH

Lessons from the discussion:

a) Carry out regular risk assessments to identify new hazards and determine the effectiveness of current safety measures.

b) Create an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting unsafe conditions and near-miss incidents without fear of retribution.

c) Ensure all employees are properly trained on how to use equipment and follow safety protocols specific to their tasks.

Facilitator - Julie Hoeflaak

Scribe – Denise Henrie

Lessons from the discussion:

a) Businesses should conduct a cost-benefit analysis considering both the short-term and long-term implications of installing hand dryers or supplying paper towels.

b) Companies committed to sustainability might lean towards installing energy-efficient hand dryers but most paper manufacturers have sustainable programs for their source materials.

c) In healthcare settings or food preparation areas where hygiene is of utmost importance, paper towels may be the better option.

Panel experts discussed installation pitfalls, what happens when you don’t use the right flooring, non - slip flooring, maintenance of existing flooring when labour costs and room availability are an issue. The difference between low maintenance and no maintenance flooring.

Lessons from the discussion:

a) Flooring standards should be followed at all times therefore, it is best to hire a qualified installer.

b) Not all flooring is equal! Specific tiles or flooring should be used in every environment.

Facilitator - John Petropoulos

Scribe - Frank Zuuring

c) Considerations are if the area is for wet or dry use, high traffic, type of activity etc.

d)Always consult a flooring expert to advise you and help you make the right decision.

Facilitator - Shawn Bolger

Scribe - Lori Bowerman

“Horse of a Different Colour” Hand Towels vs Hand Dryers. Jennifer Viger-Essity, Lee Hon – KCC

“We’re not in Kansas anymore so it’s time to update your flooring!” VCT, linoleum/marmoleum, non-slip, low maintenance/no maintenance. Chris Johnson-Altro Canada, Anne Marie Hearn - Forbo

Wizard of Oz Costume Contest

Auntie Em and Uncle Henry came out in fine form!

Some got anAfor effort

Then there are some who just missed their calling! Best Munchkin hat goes to Elle Robillard

Others showed up dressed to impress while clearly demonstrating a style all their own!

Somewhere at the end of the rainbow, we are all winners in the Emerald City!

Conference

Newbies 2023

We love seeing our extended CHHAfamily each year at the Conference, but we get equally excited when new people join our event for the first time. Leading up to the event I get the typical questions from new attendees:

● Is it really a casual event, I don’t have to wear dress clothes? My response is usually a threat to cut off their tie if they appear wearing one.

● Are we really participating in Team Building Scavenger Challenge? My response is an enthusiastic,YES!

New Delegates this year:

● JenniferAscott, Windsor Regional Hospital

● Shelly Baker, Chatham Kent HealthAlliance

● Jeremy Carpenter, Spencer House

● Kelly Coppard, St.Thomas Elgin General Hospital

● Carolynne De Boer, Listowel Wingham HospitalAlliance

● Erik Faubert, St. Josephs Healthcare

● Vikram Hundal, Mackenzie Health

● Armen Kokorian, Sodexo

● Brent Mayer, Oakville Trafalgar

● Christine Mecke, Delhi LTC

● Toni Moran, Durham Region

● Steve Walker, Cambridge Memorial Hospital

Welcome

New Exhibitors/Reps this year:

● Busch Systems, Michelle Dunn, and Bryan Wojcik

● Bunzl Systems, Bruce Ferguson, and David Smith

● New Rep from Daniels, Dalton Loveday

● George Courey, Bill French

● New Rep from Forbo Flooring,Amanda Little

● New Rep from Kimberley Clark, Lee Hon

● New Reps from MIP, Nicole Simpson, and Geoff Bryant

● New Rep from Stericycle, Anita Castanheira

We hope you enjoyed the Conference and found value in the experience! We hope to see you next year!

Cleaning for a Reason 50/50 Draw

For the second year in a row, the CHHAchose to support a group whose principles align not only with our profession, but also our core values. Cleaning for a Reason is a non - profit organization that offers free home cleaning to cancer patients in Canada.Their goal is to remove the burden of cleaning and allow those recovering from surgery, in active treatment, or in hospice to focus on their health and spending valuable time with loved ones.

Cleaning for a Reason is part of ISSACharities, allowing it to further expand its reach to more cancer patients and make the world a cleaner, healthier, better place to be.

John Riches, who is co - chair of the Board for Cleaning ForAReason as well as a longtime friend and supporter of the CHHAorganized a 50/50 raffle and offered to match the amount raised for the charity group. In a very short amount of time, the raffle managed to raise $1,200.00 and the winner was drawn at dinner on the 2nd night of the conference. Danny Putman from Sudbury, ON was the lucky winner.

On behalf of Cleaning ForAReason and ISSACharities, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and all of the members of CHHAfor your generous support.

Mike Nosko from ISSACanada joined Danny and John to speak about the charity and make a few congratulatory comments.

John Riches later reflected his remarks in a statement:

Once again this year, the 50/50 draw raised very important funds for Cleaning ForAReason.The generosity and enthusiasm of your members and suppliers is truly inspiring!

I am looking forward to supporting your conference again next year as a supplier and hopefully being part of the winning scavenger challenge team.

“This was the first time I attended the CHHA conference. First let me start by saying the venue was beautiful and the food was wonderful. The conference itself was very well organized and the content was very informative. You can see the effort that was put into making the theme a part of all aspects of the conference. The round table were great an covered a wide range of topics that were relevant to my Organization.

The trade show had a wide range of vendors that took the time to explain and demonstrate items. I certainly brought back information to my team for discussion.

The karaoke, DJ and band were amazing and the atmosphere was friendly and inviting, much fun was had. I thoroughly enjoyed the conference and certainly will be returning. Can’t wait to see what next year brings.”

Jennifer Ascott, Windsor Regional Hospital

“I had an incredible first-time experience at the CHHA 2023 Wizard of Oz themed conference. The event was enlightening and engaging, with numerous vendors unveiling innovative products that could revolutionize our industry. The round table discussions were particularly insightful, covering a wide range of topics including innovative services, infection prevention and control, and HR issues.

Beyond the educational aspect, the conference also served as an excellent platform for team building and allowed me to connect with fellow industry professionals, fostering valuable networking opportunities. Overall, the conference exceeded my expectations and left me with a renewed passion for enhancing healthcare housekeeping practices to better serve our patients.”

Armen Kokorian, Cortellucci

Vaughann Hospital

“Thank you for organizing a great conference once again. After listening to so many great speakers, I informed my organization about their quality content, and they are interested in having some of the speakers speak at one of our events!”

Ayisha Kerr, Public Health Inspector, Durham Region

Reflections of Fern Conclusion

In reflection of the 2023 Wizard of Oz conference at Fern Resort, I can say with certainty, we had some challenges. Whether it was technical problems with audio/video equipment, sessions that ran over, weather that caused last minute adjustments or unforeseen issues that prompted changes to the Scavenger challenge, for the most part we had a blast creating memories with new friends and spending quality time with our CHHAfamily.

TheAdvisory council members aim high to plan and organize the event each year. We always review the feedback we receive and try to accommodate the suggestions from previous conferences but on occasion unexpected things happen or we just miss the mark. I can tell you from my perspective that I have never worked with a more devoted group of people who volunteer their time happily and without hesitation.

to find, book and update the entertainment, to plan food and beverages for off-site activities and hospitality suites as well as organizing signs, swag bags, printing, supplies and prizes. She is amazing at this and makes it look easy but from my involvement with the conference for the last 2 years, it is done out of her caring, kindness and commitment to the CHHAas well as the passion she feels for the profession and her loyalty to the people she has bonded with over the years!Thank you to Wendy Boone, Lori Bowerman, Julie Hoeflaak, Andy Hendriks, John Petropoulis and Frank Zuring for all you do to make the conference a success!

To our special conference volunteers who were recruited to assist with the behind the scenes activities, photography, scribing RoundTable notes and monitoring the Scavenger challenge stations. Denise Henrie, Chantal McGivern, JenniferAscot and her cool MomTeresa, Danny Putman and his lovely wife Rachel.

job of all!

After all these years, they are still enthusiastic and so dedicated to the overall success of the CHHAand the membership of this organization. Wendy works tirelessly until the point of exhaustion to oversee every detail of the education and round tables sessions,

To our vendors and affiliate partners, who always pitch in with prizes or by volunteering their time and expertise for educational presentations or round table sessions. I love the path that some discussions take in the round table environment but just when it starts to get into the meat and potatoes along comes Wendy with her damn whistle! Sure, there were areas of the resort that looked a little worse for wear but the Fern staff never said no to us in all the time we were there or during our yearlong run up to the conference with all the coordinating and planning activities and they attended to our every need.

From the 1 st night when our young waiter tipped over 3 glasses of wine on himself and his tray at our table but stood there stoically as the wine ran down his sleeve, now dripping from the elbow of his shirt while he tried to carry on a conversation like nothing happened to the end when we sadly checked out!

They gave us the best service with smiles on their faces while we all enjoyed the food and beverages!They ran to get keys, set up extra tables, fixed the audio/video problems, helped with the Scavenger Challenge and all while they remained calm, professional, happy, positive and polite.

The nostalgia of Fern Resort is both comforting and sad to me at the same time. Will we return there in 2024, the answer is uncertain but I know the memories I have of the people I have met over the last 2 years will be with me forever.The CHHAis a wonderful group of like - minded individuals who come together to relax, to share their experiences, develop their skill set and broaden their knowledge base, to become the best EVS professionals they can possibly be. I couldn’t be more proud of my association with the CHHA, its affiliates, members and theAdvisory Council. I have developed so much as a Leader through the CHHA experience by networking with people who speak the same language, by participating in ongoing education and I have acquired new friends along the way. Every year I meet new colleagues and form stronger friendships with people that I never would have connected with through the annual CHHAconferences and Christmas events.

As I make my way down the long driveway to the outside world, I suddenly feel emotionally and gloomy as if I am saying goodbye to an old friend.

“A heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others.”

https://healthcarehousekeeper.org/2023award/