by Mike Hoenig and Carol Edwards
Remember the first ACB convention you ever attended? Were you like me, in awe of all the activities, special-interest groups, and great people who became instant friends? You no doubt felt that special ACB connection which brought you back for more each year.
You can help a deserving member of your state or local affiliate experience that same connection by nominating that person for the Durward K. McDaniel (DKM) First-Timers' Award. To refresh your memory, the DKM Committee selects two winners -- one from east of the Mississippi and one from west of it. We pay all convention-related expenses, including airfare, lodging, and meals. We don't stop there. DKM Committee members welcome recipients by introducing them to fellow conventioneers, involving them in special-interest group activities, and hosting a reception in their honor.
You may nominate an individual for this award, or encourage an individual to nominate him/herself. All nominations must include, at a minimum, a letter of introduction from the nominee and a letter of support from his/her local or state affiliate president. As a "first timer" in last year's selection process, I found letters which helped me get to know the nominee to be most helpful. Tell us about past and present ACB involvement at the local, state and national levels, and explain why attendance at the national convention would be beneficial. Send completed nominations to the DKM First-Timers Committee, ACB National Office, 1155 15th St. NW, Suite 1004, Washington, DC 20005 as soon as possible but no later than April 15. For more information, call DKM Committee Chair Carol Ewing at (702) 524-8444 or Cathy Skivers at (510) 357-1986.
Mark Your Calendar
We will all gather July 5-12 in Louisville, Ky., for the ACB national convention. On Thursday, July 10, the DKM committee will host a get- together for this year's recipients of the DKM First-Timers' Awards. Mark your calendar so you don't forget to sign up on the pre-registration form!
The DKM Committee is now selling raffle tickets to help get two first- timers to convention, both now and in the future. If you would like to purchase tickets, call Carol Ewing at (702) 524-8444. Then plan to attend the DKM mixer on Thursday, July 10. Let's take time in our busy schedule at the convention to welcome our first-timers!