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Galveston Island Convention Center was the place to experience the elements of change at the 96th Annual Texas PTA Convention. Over 1,040 attendees were able to listen for change in 42 workshops with topics ranging from parenting skills to obesity issues to end of year officer business.
The credentials report adopted in the closing general business meeting on Saturday, February 19, 2005, stated the total number of voting delegates present was 704. Three hundred and thirty-six non voting delegates were present with all 18 areas represented.
Friday’s activities began with a choice of four early-bird workshops, including one specifically designed for first-time convention attendees with tips for getting the most from your convention experience. Then, on to the first general business meeting where Cub Scout Den 2, Pack 869 from Clear Lake Presbyterian Church presented the colors and the meeting was underway. Cub Scout Jordon Taylor led the group in the U.S. and Texas pledges. The National Anthem and a three-song medley were presented by the members of Bravo from Cinco Ranch High School in Katy. Friday’s business included a motivating presentation by National PTA’s Secretary/Treasurer Jan Domene about the importance of change and how it relates to growth and the inclusion of men in PTA.
Saturday morning’s business is another example of the changes within our own PTA. During the session, legislative resolutions and positions were voted on and a rousing debate ensued regarding the bylaws amendments put forward by the Board of Directors. All bylaws changes were adopted. More information about these changes can be found in the upcoming April Local Unit Mail.
Another change came in the way of Saturday evening’s final general meeting and Life Member Recognition Dinner. Attendees packed the ballroom to dine with old friends and make new ones. Dessert was served while household hints tipster extraordinaire, Heloise, shared tips and stories during her keynote address.
Convention was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors. A warm thank you goes to ESPN Fundraising as tote bag sponsor, Office Depot as lanyard sponsor and HEB as workshop sponsor. The lounge area in the exhibit hall was livelier than usual due to the Sanford/EXPO suburban and drivers Jessica Sanchez and Jonathon Louge. As always, Association Insurance Management (AIM) hosted a dinner for the Board of Directors. We also appreciate the donation of Dasani bottled water for the presenters by the Coca-Cola Enterprises Bottling Companies.
We’ll see you all next in Austin at Texas PTA Day at the Capitol March 30. Then, plan to bring your friends and “Catch the Wave” July 22 – 24 in Austin at Summer Leadership Seminar.
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