If you heard the “Call to the Post” in September, then you were likely standing outside the Marriott Ballroom when none other than THE bugler from Churchill Downs, Steve Buttleman, called Preview Party guests to the ballroom. Dressed in his traditional crimson jacket and jodhpurs, Mr. Buttleman brought a bit of the Kentucky Derby to LCAM.
This year, LCAM met, and exceeded, attendee expectations. From Preview Party excitement with Derby hats and EWIdol to Closing Dinner entertainment that had some attendees literally standing on chairs for a glimpse of the Louisville Percussionists during a performance that you had to see to believe; it was a non-stop conference that left attendees excited and captivated to the very end.
Highlights of the conference were many, but as always, included our presenters. One attendee favorite was Mr. Simon T. Bailey. Mr. Bailey has shared his brilliance with an LCAM crowd previously, but this year brought the Simon T. Bailey experience as a full-day experience! Jim Mathis wowed the crowd during Friday morning’s Plenary Session. After his presentation, LCAM attendees lined up to say a few words to our speaker and to purchase books and DVDs. Friday started quickly and ended late.
Those attendees who weren’t exhausted after the first full-day of LCAM were treated to a presentation by local author of note, David Dominé. To say that Mr. Dominé brought a unique touch to LCAM is describing his presentation mildly. Mr. Dominé’s specialty is local haunted lore. Considered to be an expert on folk tales of Old Louisville, the author shared photos and personal experiences with attendees. A special guest startled, then amused, attendees. The ghost of Mr. DuPont, an actual resident of the city during Victorian times, made his own LCAM appearance. The lovely ladies of EWI were a favorite of the reportedly lecherous character of Mr. DuPont.
The conference wasn’t all fun and games though. Saturday brought with it the serious business of the organization in the form of the Annual Meeting. Delegates and voting matters took center stage and the business of EWI moved forward for another year. Whether this was your first Annual Meeting or you are a seasoned EWI member, the process and formality of the Annual Meeting never fails to impress. Truly, the importance and input of EWI’s membership is never more evident than during this meeting.
As with past LCAMs, the conference closed with a formal dinner. A touching tribute to EWI’s newly installed Corporate President, Louise Anderson, was presented by EWI of Jackson. It was moving to be able to glimpse the love and respect that members of her local Chapter feel. EWI of Jackson also announced a generous donation in the amount of $5,000 to the Mustard Seed, in addition to a hand-painted ceramic angel for those in attendance. The Mustard Seed is an organization that supports mentally challenged adults and is a charity that is near and dear to Ms. Anderson. EWI ensures its success through its membership and leadership. Our future is in good hands under the direction of Ms. Anderson.
If you were not in attendance at the 62nd annual Leadership Conference & Annual Meeting, you were no doubt missed. If you were in attendance, thank you for making the experience a fantastic and memorable occasion. Until we all meet again in Kansas City, Missouri, for our 63rd LCAM September 23-25, 2010. Save the date and look for more information in upcoming months! |
