I’m thinking back to our “conversations” as I write my final E-News President’s Message.  I say “conversations” because I hope that is what you feel my messages have been to you over the past year.  I hope that you have gotten to know the District leadership better as a result of these messages and have been inspired by the dedication and passion each of them expressed.  They are the reason this year has been so successful and I’m proud to have served with them.

This month, we will all (I hope) be headed to Albuquerque for the District’s Annual Meeting.  Jim Barrera and Paul Barricklow have done a wonderful job preparing for our arrival and I can’t wait to see what they have in store for us.  Don’t forget to bring your banquet attire to fit the “Red or Green” theme of the meeting.  A famous fashion designer was once said “When in doubt wear red” and I happen to agree so you know which one I will be picking!  My partner-in-crime (aka Vice President), Mark Spencer, and I have been working on a small surprise for our banquet attendees so make sure you get to Albuquerque next month!

So at the close of our final “conversation” for the year, I thank you for allowing me to serve you as your President and I know you will be in good hands with Mark next year.  He brings with him a plethora of ideas, an enthusiasm to serve the greater good, and a collaborative spirit that I know will serve the District well.  I leave you with this final Hawaiian saying…a hui hou (“until we meet again”).  I look forward to seeing you all at the next ITE event!