I hope this finds all WAABI members well - and safely home from the 2008 Leadership Conference!

WAABI 101 was the theme of this year's Conference. WAABI basics were highlighted and detailed over the course of two days of business sessions.

Craig Wolf, President and CEO of WSWA (Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America) began the conference with a thought provoking discussion of responsibility in the beverage alcohol industry, and how it compares to other industries.

Chapter Presidents reported on WAABI successes from the past year, and gave us insight as to their plans for the coming year. The Sky Ranch team updated delegates on the happenings in South Dakota, and hosted a wonderful Hall of Fame dinner.

Tito Bacardi, a longtime WAABI member and supporter, was honored with the 2008 Unity Award. Judy Bowman, of the Bardstown chapter, was awarded the Spirit of WAABI Award, and Julie Setter, Minnesota WAABI and National Board member, received the WAABI Champion Award.

Our Conference service project, expanding the collection in the Sky Ranch library, was a roaring success with $450 in gift cards donated for the Sky Ranch team to purchase books, and the promise of more to come.

Finally, our delegates wrapped up this busy Conference with some poolside Karaoke! My thanks to all who supported the 2008 Leadership Conference! Planning for next year's Conference is already underway!

Jill Hawkins
Executive Director