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 One Beltway Center |
President's MessageJuly 27, 2010 Dear Leaguers, Last week, in beautiful sunny San Diego California, the League held its 107th annual National Convention, and the convention turned out to be everything expected! Besides the fabulous weather for which San Diego is famous, every other aspect of the convention was superb! On Sunday evening, attendees were treated to a Fiesta night to honor our many first timers. Tasty Mexican food, a strolling Mariachi band, and a top notch rock and roll band keep Leaguers dancing into the late evening. Early Monday morning, our general session began with a special singing tribute our service men and women by Postmaster Larry Graves of New Mexico, followed by afternoon workshops, with more workshops offered on Wednesday. All in all, over twenty fine workshops were offered covering a wide variety of subjects to help attendees in their jobs and personal lives. Every current postal subject was covered, as well as workshops on weight loss, Facebook, genealogy, and procrastination. Again, the League’s claim of the Education Organization rang true! On Monday night, attendees were treated to California’s Beach Party complete with beach food, carnival games for the kids, and more dancing into the wee hours to the music of rock and roll! Tuesday’s session saw the completion of important League business, followed by a free afternoon of golf, tours and the beach! Tuesday evening was a free evening, and most Leaguers took advantage of the time to sample many of the area’s fine restaurants. Thursday was reserved for our very important elections. After a week of intense campaigning, Leaguers elected a very strong board. Mark Strong, Postmaster of Sun City West Arizona, was elected National President by acclamation to replace outgoing President, Charley Mapa. The hard fought contest for three positions for National Vice President saw West Virginia’s Sean Accord, Minnesota’s John Olson, and California’s Norma Powell winning by the slimmest of margins. Later in the day, John Difalco gave a stirring tribute to his dear friend, and friend to all Leaguers, Past President, Ron Swisher, who died very recently. Ted Keating, President of NAPS, addressed Leaguers. He spoke about the very close working relationship fostered by him, NAPUS Past President Dale Goff, and League President Charley Mapa. Ted told attendees how important the partnership is, and reminded Postmasters how essential it is for the management associations to continue working closely together. Ted’s remarks were met with loud applause from a grateful and appreciative League of Postmasters. NAPUS President, Bob Rapoza had injured his back and was unable to make the long trip out to California, but sent his wishes for a successful convention. Thursday night’s Grand Banquet had a full agenda. Retired Postmaster Jimmy Merritt emceed the evening in his typical classy style. Leaguers were able to bid a fond adieu to outgoing board members, Deb Egemo and Bob Bittner. First Lady, Gwenda Mapa gave a tearful and moving goodbye, thanking the League for all of its love and support for her and President Charley Mapa. Tennessee’s much deserving Joyce Berry was named this League’s Postmaster of the Year amid a standing ovation. Our own Jimmy Merritt was named winner of the very prestigious Oscar Pogue Award given to a person who exemplifies everything good about the League. After the thundering applause for him had died down a bit, Jimmy, who had been joined by wife Dale on the podium, was uncharacteristically speechless. The night’s official events came to a close when departing President Charley Mapa, confidently passed the baton to newly elected President, Mark Strong. The festivities were followed by, you guessed it, more great music, with a special singing appearance by talented Postmaster Gary Spizzirri, and more dancing. The National Convention was all that it had promised and more. Thanks to each person that made it possible. Respectfully, Charley Mapa Past President National League of Postmasters |
League EventsJuly 31 - August 4, 2011 National League of Postmasters Convention Hyatt Regency Albuquerque |
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