I am extremely grateful that 2022 saw the education staff remain intact. In so many years past, changes would occur (some by choice; some not). As those with employees know, it was like starting over when getting someone onboarded and up to speed. This group has now been together for nearly four years, gone through COVID restrictions together, skipped conventions, moved from a building with 15-plus years of “stuff” piled and stacked to a place 1⁄5 the size — all while continuing to offer training around the country, webinars, testing and developing new ideas. Carlos, Dawne and Joe, you have no idea how thankful I am that we made it through and are still plowing ahead. It seems like swimming upstream sometimes, but we keep going. You guys are awesome. I am thankful that in 2022, by the grace of whatever your beliefs are, I have pretty good health for an old guy and am still able to do what I love doing — be it the job, playing mu- sic or watching the grandkids grow. I would be remiss if I wasn’t thankful for a spouse and soul mate who understands that my 5 a.m.-’til-4-and-5 p.m. hours, Saturday meetings and evening webinars are just part of the job. Without that support, the term “postal” comes to mind. Thank you, Divina. WWW.ALOA.ORG And last, but certainly not least, I am so very thankful that 2022 brought so many of you back to support ALOA and its divisions and that you took the time to thank the BOD and staff for what they do. It means so much to hear, even from just one person, that they appreciate what we do. I assure you: We appreciate each of you more than we can express. Without you, there is no organization. Now… bring on 2023! Jim Hancock, CML, CMST, is ALOA’s education manager. You can reach him at [email protected] or (214) 819-9733. NOVEMBER 2022 KEYNOTES 55
