Good morning from Las Vegas! Missed last night, but as you can imagine, it was pretty crazy! So, let me start from the beginning yesterday. The day started with our district caucus at 7:30am - well done and lots of excitement for the day's elections. The meet the candidates session followed. Each candidate had 1 minute to introduce themselves, 1 minute each to answer (3) questions and then a 2 minute closing. We were all sequestered while the other candidates were speaking so we couldn't hear the questions. I was pretty happy at the end - the questions were very simple for me to answer: tell us what you've done with one of our service leadership programs over the last year...hmmmm...
Then is was off to a quick lunch before the house of delegate session and the elections. The session started with the amendments so we had to wait until near the end for the elections! Nerves were fine until they put the microphone on and then it hit - but only for a second. Once I walked out on stage, it felt wonderful! My speech went very well - I was so happy. Ever think you'd speak in front of 6,000+ people with cameras and lights all around?
Once all the votes were tallied - now done electronically - KI's Executive Director Stan pulled all the candidates together to give us the results before they were announced. Chuck K - one of my campaign co-chairs was with me. Al D was out in the audience with the MI delegation. And when the results were announced, I was so excited!! I was elected! Congrats to Oscar and Johnny who will also join the board. Thanks to Steve for running a great campaign.
Then it was time to leave the convention center. It was so humbling to have fellow Kiwanians expressing their congratulations and best wishes! Lots of hugs, handshakes and picture taking! I have a big responsibilitlly ahead and I'm here to give it my all.
It was great to talk with my mom and dad for a few minutes afterwards. Thanks to Al, my phone was on speaker phone and they were able to hear the announcement! Mom, Dad, I did buy the dvds from the week so you'll be able to see it - live :) Thank you for all your love!
After a quick break, Al, Margie, Chuck, Ken, Joan, Bill and I headed to the casino buffet for dinner. Great food, fun and fellowshp! Good thing we did all that laughing - it was the exercise we needed for all the food! Al, Margie, Chuck, Ken and I then went to the old Vegas - Fremont St. Wow - what a sight. Much different than the strip. Cool - I'll go back there.
So the end to one and the beginning to another beautiful, exciting day. Today starts with a few meetings, closing session and then a chance to come home and relax before another celebration dinner at Lawrys.
I can't express enough thanks to all my supporters and my campaign co-chairs Al and Chuck. I couldn't have done it without you!
Signing off now - talk to you all later!
