Neither rain nor sleet nor a major snowstorm could deter the intrepid souls from playing at the Oregon Trail Regional. What an amazing tournament. Thanks to Tournament Manger Amy Casanova, DIC McKenzie Myers and a host of other folks for an incredible job. We had to add extra tables to accommodate the turnout in the I/N games and we even had a very nice four-table 0-20 game on Saturday morning. Donna Compton and David Brower provided great lessons. In spite of the second biggest snowstorm in recent history, it appears the District is going to turn a profit. Equally importantly, folks had a great time.

In addition to all that great news, perhaps the biggest thing to happen was that Irva Kay Neyhart reached the rank of Grand Life Master at this event. There are not enough superlatives to describe Irva Kay’s rise from novice to national-level player in such a relatively short amount of time. Truly amazing. Kudos and congratulations.

The District Board held its annual election meeting Saturday evening at the OTR and Sheri Markwardt was elected vice-president, Rich Carle will once again serve as secretary and Dennis Harms also agreed to another term as treasurer. I had previously been elected as president and will have two more years to serve.

Cynthia Sinn was unanimously approved as our new I/N coordinator. We are grateful for her willingness to serve in this critical position for the district. Cheryl Haines has done a remarkable job this past year in that position. Cheryl is by no means going away. Her expertise is in marketing and communication, and she is making great contributions to the District in lots and lots of ways already, not the least of which is this product you have in front of you…the new D20Declarer.

In this year that I have been serving as president for the district, I have had the distinct pleasure of getting to work with so many competent, committed, and conscientious individuals. I am grateful.