Blogging with AFRW

AFRW 23^RD BIENNIAL CONVENTION

“AIMING FOR THE STARS”

The AFRW Biennial Convention kicked off on Friday, October 26^th, in Huntsville with reports on the National Convention given by Bobbie Lou Leigh and Brenda Horn on behalf of her granddaughter, Katie , who served as our page for the NFRW Convention.   John Ross, the Executive Director of the Alabama Republican Party, updated members on the status of ALGOP and also gave instructions to those wishing to run for delegate to the National GOP Convention.   Attorney General Troy King inspired the attendees with his passionate talk, which was followed by workshops dealing with health issues concerning the heart, breast cancer, and ovarian cancer.

State Representative Mike Ball and The Madison Mountaintop Band provided toe-tapping music for the Friday night’s “Starlight Reception”.  Mrs. Jeri (Fred) Thompson and daughter mixed and mingled with the crowd, posing for pictures with those who remembered to bring their camera!  The highlight of the Friday “Starry Night” Dinner and Program was hearing from Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn (TN), and the stirring speech given by keynote speaker Congressman Duncan Hunter, presidential candidate from San Diego, CA.  There was also a fun balloon drop at the end of Duncan Hunter’s speech!

 There were 64 delegates, 10 alternate delegates, and 39 guests registered that attended Saturday’s General Session.  Eighteen clubs were represented.  The bylaws were modified to come into compliance with NFRW bylaws, and the delegates voted to increase AFRW dues by $2, which combined with the $3 dues increase voted in at the NFRW Convention will make a total of $5 per member dues increase.

 The nominees presented by the Nominating Committee were unanimously voted into office as follows:

 President                         Bobbie Lou Leigh                    

1^st Vice President            Elois Zeanah                            

2^nd Vice President            Vicki Drummond                     

3^rd Vice President            Margie George                        

^4th Vice President             Robbin Blake                           

Recording Sec                Holly Lollar                             

Assist Recording Sec      Frances Taylor                        

Corresponding Sec         Jo Lawley                                

Treasurer                        Phyllis Davis                            

Asst Treasurer                Barbara Sikorski

 Camellia Club reported 47 members for 2007.  This set a new record for AFRW.

 There were five resolutions passed; one acknowledging Elois Zeanah for her dedicated work and accomplishments as AFRW’s Illegal Immigrations Chairman, and one commending Gov. Riley for his actions regarding illegal immigration, along with some recommend suggestions to enhance efforts to cut costs and curb illegal immigration.

Just to recap, the entire convention went smoothly, as informative workshops on health issues were conducted by Janet Donoghue;  Presidential candidates were heard from on Friday evening; bylaw changes were approved in the General Session along with the election of new officers; club awards were given at the Awards’ Luncheon; concluding with the grand finale on Saturday evening with Senator Jeff Sessions.

Out of all the conventions I have attended from California to Washington D.C., I must say none have surpassed the decorations and food at the Saturday Night "Star Dust" Dinner.  The DVD Photo presentation from Kelley Smith was awe inspiring, Senator Jeff Sessions brought a challenging message, and awards were given to our AFRW members who are our State Constitutional Officers.  What a way to end a convention!