Join us in the Friendly City!
MAAWLE
2024 Training Conference
TRUST : the Keystone of Teamwork
October 13-17, 2024
Madison Hotel and Conference Center
“TRUST: The Keystone of Teamwork, the Bedrock of our Relationships with Ourselves, Each Other, and Our Community”
Please download the free Signal app FIRST, then join the group chat with the QR code on the left or the link above. End-to-end encryption keeps our conversations secure! Use the app to post photos, share stories, and get updates from the Conference Committee.
Monday, October 14
0600-0700 Fitness Activity - HIIT with RMH Wellness
0630-0800 Breakfast
0700-0830 Registration
0830-0900 Group Photograph
0900- 1000 Opening Ceremonies
1000-1015 Break
1015 - 1145 Award Presentations
1200 - 1300 Luncheon
1300-1430 Conference Keynote Speaker
1430 - 1445 Break
1500 - 1700 Case Study - The NorCal Rapist
1800 - 2200 Networking Event - Singo @ Pale Fire
Tuesday, October 15
0630-0700 Fitness Activity - Sunrise Run
0630-0800 Breakfast
0800-1200 Tactical Tuesday (Group 1)
0800-0930 Courtroom Testimony & Preparation
OR
Financial Resiliency - Officer Wellness
0930-1030 Break/Vendor Exhibits
1030-1200 Corroborating Sexual Assault Investigations
OR
Public Speaking for Public Safety
1200-1300 Lunch
1300-1700 Tactical Tuesday (Group 2)
1300-1430 Corroborating Sexual Assault Investigations
OR
Engineering Proactive Community Engagement
1430-1445 Break/Vendor Exhibits
1445-1615 Courtroom Testimony & Prep
OR
Resiliency: It’s More Than Officer Survival
1700-2200 Downtown Dining - on your own
Wednesday, October 16
0600-0700 Fitness Activity - Yoga with the Center Yoga
0630-0800 Breakfast
0800-1015 Case Study: Serial Homicide Investigation;
Law Enforcement Attendees only
1015-1100 Break
1100-1200 MAAWLE Business Meeting
1200-1300 Lunch
1300-1600 Case Study on the Uvalde School Shooting:
Radio Silence: Failure to Hear and Understand a Solution
1800-2100 Dinner at Bluestone Vineyards
Thursday, October 17
0600-0700 Fitness Activity - Zumba
0630-0800 Breakfast
0830-1100 Women Leading in a Male-Dominated Profession
1100 Closing Remarks
Tactical Tuesday Agenda & Details
Program:
- Fundamentals Review
- Accuracy and Drawing drills
- “Multiple Rounds on Multiple Targets” Drill
- Pace Changing
- Plate Rack shoot off
Equipment to bring:
- 400 rounds ammunition estimated/must store on your own
- Ear Pro & Eye Pro
- Firearm and at least 3 magazines
- Holster (or Duty Belt)
- Body Armor
Tactical Tuesday will be split into two groups. Group 1 will attend the session from 0800-noon (the morning session is now at capacity) and will return to the hotel for lunch and other breakout sessions.
Group 2 will remain at the hotel in the morning, and will attend the tactical session from 1300-1700 before returning to the hotel for the networking event.
Sign-Ups will be at the registration table Sunday afternoon and Monday morning.
Conference Keynote Speaker
Dr. Shawn Andrews
Dr. Shawn Andrews is an international keynote speaker, organizational consultant, and author of the best-selling book, The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide (2018 Morgan James Publishing).
She’s been a Forbes contributor, quoted in the Chicago Tribune, and interviewed on dozens of podcast and radio shows, including NPR.
Shawn has shared her ideas on the TEDx stage and has worked with over 100 organizations across multiple industries, including the United Nations, Johnson and Johnson, Hewlett-Packard, U.S. Forest Service, National Diversity Council, Association for Talent Development, and Society for Human Resource Management.
With over two decades of corporate experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, she has helped thousands of leaders improve and develop using presentations, workshops, coaching, and psychological instruments. She is an accredited practitioner for EQ-i 2.0 and EQ 360 models and Insights Discovery Colors.
She serves as a professor at the UC Irvine Paul Merage School of Business, teaching courses on Women & Leadership and Organizational Behavior. Her specific areas of focus include Leadership and Gender, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Bias, and Emotional Intelligence.
Shawn earned her Ed.D. degree in Organizational Leadership and an M.B.A. degree from Pepperdine University, and a B.A. degree in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine.
She serves as Board President, Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association Orange County, and is founder and CEO of Andrews Research International.
Contact Information
Phone: 714-367-6063
Email: shawn@drshawnandrews.com
Website: www.drshawnandrews.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drshawnandrews/
TEDx talk: Debunking Bias: Perceptions of Male & Female Leaders
From Crime to Clarity:
The NorCal Rapist & the Future of Forensic Investigative Genetic Geneaology
Background
Sacramento Detective Avis C. Beery and survivor Nicole Earnest-Payte, will be sharing their experiences in investigating and surviving the ‘NorCal Rapist’ Case. This case involved a series of sexual assaults across Northern California with the perpetrator being apprehended after years of evading justice. This de-brief will highlight how a combination of modern technology, empathetic engagement and traditional investigative methods can lead to successful outcomes in cold cases. It also underscores the critical role of victims in seeking justice and the importance of a victim-centered approach to law enforcement.
Retired Fairfax Major Ed O’Carroll will discuss the forensic investigation aspect of the case, and where unsolved criminal investigations are today - and where the future will undoubtedly lead.
Case Study:
The Shopping Cart Killer
Background
Like many communities, Harrisonburg has its fair share of people who ‘disappear’ for a few days and then return. In this case, the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the victim were not ‘usual’. This investigation led to a gruesome discovery in a field next to a local motel, ultimately uncovering a series of murders and identifying the ‘Shopping Cart Killer’ serial murderer. This case will highlight that knowing your community can provide crucial insights during investigations. Interjurisdictional trust and cooperation are essential, especially in a large, high-profile case. Finally, this case reminds us that such crimes can happen anywhere.
This Session is RESTRICTED to law enforcement attendees only
Case Study:
Radio Silence: Failing to Hear and Understand a Solution
Background
M. Todd Martin, Lieutenant, Texas Rangers (Ret.) and founder of RANGLUR - Protection, Architectural & Engineering Firm, has served over three decades in numerous operational and supervisory roles within the U.S. military, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, including numerous tactical roles for the Texas Rangers Special Operations Group.
Todd will provide an in-depth presentation and discussion of the large-scale failures that occurred at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas on May 24, 2022. He will also outline and facilitate a discussion on the continued failures related to combatting active assailants in the United States and what we as American law enforcement must do to keep our communities safe.
Breakout Sessions
Courtroom Testimony and Preparation
In this block, Harrisonburg-Rockingham Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Mandie Strecky will share her experiences in the courtroom with officers, and will provide best practices to help you perform your best.
Corroborating Sexual Assault Investigations
Seasoned Harrisonburg Police Detective and ICAC Investigator Greg Miller and Harrisonburg-Rockingham Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Alycia Eldridge will speak about the most egregious and sensitive type of investigations. They will share lessons learned and tips to ensure you can build a solid team back home.
This is a two-part session, you do not NEED to attend part 2, but if you do, try to attend part 1 first.
Public Speaking for Public Safety
Corinne Geller, Virginia State Police (retired)
Executive Director of Strategic Communications, University of Virginia
Breakout Sessions
Engineering Proactive Community Engagement
Resiliency: It’s More Than Officer Survival
Survival isn’t good enough. Learn to take control and thrive in your law enforcement career.
Financial Resiliency-Officer Wellness and Resources
We understand that today's law enforcement is more complex than ever before. We realize that you are facing a growing array of challenges, opportunities, and threats in your day-to-day operations. This stress can also be compounded by one of the biggest stressors in our personal lives today: financial uncertainty. Just as your mental and physical wellness on the job is important, financial wellness is equally important.
Women Leading in a Male-Dominated Profession
Course Description
This course empowers women to thrive in any male-dominated profession by equipping them with the necessary skills, strategies, and mindset to navigate challenges and drive positive change. Through a combination of theoretical insights, practical tools, case studies, and interactive discussions, participants will explore the unique dynamics of leadership in male-dominated environments, develop confidence and resilience, and learn to leverage their strengths to achieve professional success. This course aims to inspire and empower women to lead authentically, resiliently, and effectively in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Singo at Pale Fire Brewing Co.
Sing along while playing Bingo - Karaoke style! Within walking distance of Hotel Madison, Pale Fire Brewery offers locally crafted ales, woodfire pizzas, and fun games in Downtown Harrisonburg’s historical Ice House building.
Monday at 6pm
Dinner at Bluestone Vineyard
Charter buses will transport us to the scenic Bluestone Vineyards in Bridgewater, VA for dinner, drinks and music.
Catered by Outback Steakhouse.
Wednesday at 6pm, busses will load at the hotel by 5:30
Diamond League
Luray Caverns Tour and lunch
Tuesday, meet at 10am in the hotel lobby
Diamond League (retired member) attendees are invited to spend an unforgettable day (Tuesday, October 14 at 1000 am) as we delve into the largest and most popular caverns in Eastern America. This exciting trip includes visits to a small charming 19th-century village featuring historic buildings, beautiful cottage-style gardens, and a picturesque vineyard, all set against a stunning mountain backdrop. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore history and nature in one incredible day!"
This trip is exclusive to our Diamond League members - retired law enforcement women who love attending the conference for the fun and friends! Please sign up in advance (linked here)
Fitness Activites
Monday 10/14, 0600 HIIT
High Energy Class with a full-body workout combining strength training and cardio through intense intervals. To join us, please meet in Shenandoah Ballroom C.
Tuesday 10/15, 0630 Sunrise Run
Full 3.6 mile run led through the beautiful JMU campus (with an optional breakoff point at the halfway mark). Meet us in the hotel lobby to join the group.
Wednesday 10/16, 0600 Yoga
Stretching. Breathing. Mindfulness. Sponsored by the Center Yoga and Pilates Studio.
To join us, please meet in Shenandoah Ballroom C.
Thursday 10/17, 0600 Zumba
Dynamic dance workout class that combines upbeat music with easy-to-follow choreography. To join us, please meet in Shenandoah Ballroom C.
Other Fitness Options
Enjoy the on-site fitness center and indoor salt-water pool.
One of the coolest things about the CrossFit community as a whole is that you can drop in anywhere in the world if you are a regular CrossFit athlete with at least three months of experience!
Members with PF BLACK CARD have access to any club worldwide and can bring a guest. Open 24/7
Orangetheory is a dynamic combination of strength and cardio training that supercharges your metabolism to burn more calories and build lean muscle at the same time. Our certified coaches guide you through scientifically designed workouts that are fun for all fitness levels, while technology captures data to prove your progress.
Westover Pool has lap swim and recreational swimming, along with a fitness center and classes/activities.
MAAWLE attendees will receive a discount code for any classes offered the week of the conference. Walking distance from the hotel, they provide yoga, pilates and Barre classes for all levels.
Things to do in Harrisonburg and Beyond
Axe Throwing/Arcades: Harrisonburg offers a range of exciting venues for axe throwing and arcade fun. Blue Ridge AXEcade combines axe throwing, a large arcade, and a full restaurant/bar for entertainment. Beards & Broads features competitive axe throwing with a food menu, beer, wine, and other games, providing a flexible space for larger parties. Ruby’s Arcade has duckpin bowling, pool tables, skee-ball, arcade games, brick oven pizza, and a full bar.
Relax and enjoy our 5 breweries; Brothers Craft Brewing, the Friendly Fermenter, Pale Fire Brewing, Restless Moons Brewing and Three Notch’d Valley Collab House or sip on crisp, hard cider at Sage Bird Ciderworks. At Nightcap by Merge you’ll find yourself sipping on exquisite wines, craft beers, and wine-based cocktails.
Visit the Hardesty-Higgins House and tour the Valley Turnpike Museum and Civil War Orientation Center (free) Open every day 9 – 5.
Outside Harrisonburg
Experience the Brethren & Mennonite Heritage Center
1921 Heritage Center Way, Harrisonburg
Open Sat. - 10:00am-5:00pm, Mon. & Tue. - Grounds always open. Tours by Appointment.
Walk through idyllic pastures at the Brethren and Mennonite Heritage Center to an awe-inspiring view of the city. In addition to these picturesque scenes from the hillside, the Center is also home to several carefully preserved buildings from the 1700s, 1800s and 1900s, including a shoemaker shop, hand-hewn log house, schoolhouse, and Civil War era farmhouse. Guided tours of the buildings and grounds are available by appointment on Mondays and Tuesdays.
1301 Carrier Drive, Room 1021, Harrisonburg
Monday, Wednesday, Friday 1:00 – 4:00
The JMU Mineral Museum is an internationally recognized destination with minerals from 39 countries and 24 U.S. states. It offers something for those with any level of geological education, from casual viewers to those with extensive backgrounds in mineralogy.
Catch a performance at the Forbes Center for the Arts.
121 Carpenter Lane, Harrisonburg
Open 10:00 – 6:00 except Sundays
At the Shenandoah Heritage Market sample some Old Fashioned Valley Goodness at the area’s largest Country Market. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of water gardens and park benches while you wander through 20+ locally owned and operated shops. Come enjoy a taste of the past.
Visit Dayton Market
3105 John Wayland Hwy Ave, Dayton
Open 9:00 – 6:00 Thursday, Friday and Saturday
The market, a tourist destination for over 30 years featuring Warfels Chocolates, The Cheese Place and other shops.
Fall Fun includes:
Celebrating over 15 years of “corny” fall family fun, Back Home on the Farm is a must-visit. This year, they’re bringing even more excitement with a 7-acre pumpkin patch, 40+ attractions, and the beloved Peanuts-themed corn maze. From ziplining and cow train rides to solving “Cornundrums” in the cornfield, there’s something for everyone. And don’t miss their delicious treats like warm apple cider doughnuts, whoopie pies, and home-grown burgers. Open from September 7 to November 3, 2024, with the pumpkin patch opening on September 15, this farm is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your family.
For a classic pumpkin-picking experience, Mulberry Hills Farms is a must-visit. This family-run farm offers pick-your-own pumpkins, mums, and more starting in mid-September. On weekends, enjoy hayrides, visit friendly farm animals, and indulge in ice cream. With daily hours from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, it’s easy to fit a visit into your schedule and stock up on all your fall essentials.
Norsk Mountain Farms is a haven of autumn adventures. Besides pumpkin picking, visitors can enjoy hayrides, petting zoos, and even partake in costume and pumpkin carving contests during the last two weekends in October. With additional attractions like a Woolen Mill, farm market, and maker retreats, Norsk Mountain Farms is a destination worth exploring this fall.
For apple lovers, Showalter’s Orchard is a must-visit. This family-owned orchard offers over 30 varieties of apples, with picking season already in full swing. The orchard’s scenic location on a hilltop provides stunning 360-degree views of the Shenandoah Valley, making your visit even more memorable. Don’t miss out on their famous apple cider slushies and sweet and hard cider, which are pressed and bottled right on the farm.
With so many pick-your-own farms surrounding Harrisonburg, fall is the perfect time to explore the countryside, enjoy the harvest, and make memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re in search of the perfect pumpkin, a basket of fresh apples, or simply a fun day out, these farms are ready to welcome you for another unforgettable season.
Spring Creek Farm & Produce, located just outside of Harrisonburg, is a pick-your-own farm where visitors can harvest pumpkins from early September through October 31 and enjoy strawberry picking in the spring. They also offer mums and other seasonal produce throughout the year.
Premier Platinum Sponsor
Platinum Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Alcova Mortgage
Big Valley Law
Blauer
Bluestone Vineyard
Command Presence
Frontline Mobile Tech
Harbor of Grace
Justice Federal Credit Union
Lantz Construction
Masrich/Valley Mall
Off-Duty Management
Outback Steakhouse
Rockingham Coop
Sig Sauer
University of Virginia
Vendors
Small Business Vendors
Many of our sponsors will have exhibitor boots. We also love our independent business vendors! Please visit them in the Exhibition space!
EG Projects
Edinburg Gap Llama Company
Catherine Rabidis/New York Life
Contacts