by Pam Shaw
(Editor’s Note: Pam Shaw is the chairperson of the ACB membership committee.)
“I’ve got something I’d like to share with you,” began newly elected ACB President Chris Gray as he introduced the topic of the September board meeting. “Let’s do something creative with this meeting.” After some discussion, it was decided to hold the meeting in Albuquerque, N.M., the state of the newest affiliate of ACB, the ACB of New Mexico. “It will be a great opportunity to meet our new members, and let them see their leadership in action,” said Gray.
When he heard about the board’s plan, Ron Brooks, an active member of ACB who recently moved to New Mexico and is in the process of founding a chapter in Albuquerque, suggested that the new chapter hold a meeting to coincide with the ACB board meeting. Before long, the idea had mushroomed into an even more exciting plan: David Armijo announced that the ACB of New Mexico might hold its first annual state convention to coincide with the board meeting as well. Quick thinking and action on the part of Brooks and others in New Mexico has resulted in what is bound to be a unique exchange of ideas and information between members of the New Mexico affiliate and the board of directors of ACB.
A committee has been established to work on this project. Plans are that the weekend will begin with a leadership development seminar on Friday, September 21. The seminar will be followed by an evening of socializing and merry-making where ACB members and friends will get to know each other better. On Saturday morning, the New Mexico state convention will begin with President Gray and others participating in the opening festivities. The ACB board will adjourn in order to conduct its business while the convention continues. Both groups will meet for lunch, then they will continue with separate activities in the afternoon. The board meeting is expected to conclude on Sunday morning, the 23rd of September.
Although program content has not been finalized, it is clear that this will be a memorable event for all involved. “We are looking forward to having the board of directors of ACB visit our state,” said ACB of New Mexico president David Armijo. “This will be a great opportunity to publicize who we are and what we do. Input by ACB officers, directors and staff will be greatly appreciated.”