The 2010 International Convention had lots for all. You could go to workshops, attend a panel discussion, learn more about the proposed Constitution, enjoy Spokane on a variety of tours and meet friends from everywhere. The 2008-2010 administrative board met prior to convention to complete the final aspects of their work. The executive board met and had an enjoyable lunch together in preparation for convention events. Iowa state organization held a reception for Dr. Carolyn Rants and every region had a special breakfast.
This was my first international convention as a headquarters staff member and I was busy doing so many things I never thought about as an attending member. I had lots of backstage work. Some days it was running presentations, other days making sure speakers knew how to get backstage and to their assigned microphones. Other days were spent helping a member solve an issue or attending pre-convention training for editors and web masters. I met so many wonderful members and enjoyed putting names and faces together.
Gather on the River was an incredible evening. For those who were not able to be there this was a new experience. Coca Cola Enterprises sponsored the event. We had wrap sandwiches, coke products in special bottles and a jazz group playing from the river. The weather cooperated everyday and this event launched the convention on a positive note.
During the workshop days, I was on the technology panel which Judy Merz organized. What an experience. Judy lead us through practical topics to set the audience up for the Q & A time. We started on time and ended on time with lots of interaction from those attending.
During another workshop session, I slipped into one of the DKGnetwork sessions. Since convention we have had more than 50 new members join the social network. That's a fine beginning. Jensi Souders has told me she has updated her blog in the network so I must take a few minutes to read it.
One of the highlights for me was the President's Banquet. I had guests. My cousin, Jack and his wife Donna, drove up to Spokane on Friday to visit for a short time. I invited them to the dinner and they dressed up and met lots of ladies. They made friends at the Double Tree, too. I warned them that I'd have to sit at the head table but they would be fine for our members are friendly. They had a great time. We went out afterwards to catch up.
I stayed a few extra days as vacation and went to the park, relaxed with an afternoon at the spa and had dinner with a few remaining friends. The convention was a great success. Watch for more highlights and news on the DKG Web site.
