The 2010 national conference in Dallas Texas began for me on Tuesday May 25th when we met with the State Assembly Leadership Forum (SALF) and learned and re-learned some basics of what our goals and objectives need to be for our Minnesota State assembly.  We learned about how to transform and transfer from one president to another and how to pull up assemblies if they are not heading in the right direction.

We learned ways to make sure we keep our books easily updated so that if we are ever audited we can go through that process smoothly.  The task of taking on a BOD or executive role in a state assembly was addressed a long with ideas and techniques on planning and marketing our workshops.  A mock election was held to show us what we are doing right and what we can work on for future elections.

Cathy Sparkman, AST director of government affairs, gave a great update on all of the legislation that is happening around the country and showed us what progress was being made by other states.

Wednesday was a half day of basically round table discussions on what we had talked about the day before and a lot of good questions were answered.  Further discussion was on how to go about handling our CE credits which I think we need to look into making it better and more user friendly. 

Thursday started off with opening ceremonies and introductions of all the important people and distinguished guests among us.  Different awards were handed out and I was so proud that the Minnesota State Assembly won the State Assembly Award for all of the hard work that was put in by all our members and even our students by pulling off such events as our mock surgery at the state capitol.  Way to go Minnesota!

Chris Gardner, author, and inspiration for the blockbuster film "The pursuit of Happiness" was our keynote speaker and brought attention to the fact that it is not what you have or where you are, it is what you put into it that will make you successful.

Two days full of speakers and exhibits made for a fun conference that seemed to fly by.  It was great to see old friends and even meet some new ones.  The conference wrapped up for me Saturday afternoon and while I sat at the pool reflecting on the last couple of days I realized that I was leaving Dallas with a little more than some knowledge, I was leaving with a renewed purpose.

-Darby Wacker, CST

Linda's Experience: 

The SALF workshop began with a message from Sherri Alexander, AST President about taking the same skills and management qualities that we use in the OR every day and applying them to our position on the State Assembly Board.

There was some information on strategic planning, but the most informative talk was on finances.  Jean Carty-Turner talked to us about audits, and managing our checkbook.  One thing that was suggested is that the board vote on a maximum amount that the President or Treasurer can distribute without board approval.  I think this would be a good idea.

Then we talked about duties and responsibilities of board members and officers as well as communication and Mock elections.

The second day was filled with questions and answers shared by all.  Clarification of the information heard the previous day was helpful.  It was great to hear what other States are doing.

It was nice to have some free time Wednesday afternoon.  I caught a few rays at the outdoor pool and spent some time checking out the hotel.  It was amazing!!  Rivers, streams, waterfalls and fountains throughout the hotel with many bridges connecting walkways and trees lining their edges.  They were preparing for an Alice in Wonderland Adventure at the end of the week and it was fun to see new things popping up throughout the hotel. 

Thursday morning was the opening ceremony.  It was quite majestic with all the music and introductions of all the important people that keep AST running smoothly.  It was inspiring to hear Chris Gardner speak about the hardships that he overcame and his determination to advance his career while providing and caring for his young son.

Of course the highlight of the day was when Minnesota won the leadership award.  I didn't even know we had applied.  What a surprise!

After taking in the exhibits that afternoon, I attended the ASA business session and was excited to hear about the ASA breaking off from AST to become their own association.  They will be forming their own National Board and I am interested in possibly serving in some capacity.

Sara, Darby and I  met with Cathy Sparkman to talk about the Minnesota Legislation and where we go from here.

The opening night party was at the Glass Cactus night club and Sara looked so cute in her braided pig tails and her boots and hat.  Giddy-up cowgirl!!!

Friday morning was the candidates forum, and Sara did a great job with her speech.  The rest of the day was filled with speakers and exhibits.  We had a nice dinner that evening at the steakhouse with Dr. Dubois.

Saturday morning I took in some meetings of the ASA.  Cathy Sparkman talked bout legislation for surgical assistants and there was discussion of billing and reimbursement as well. 

After voting on Saturday afternoon, I was off to the airport.  I enjoyed getting to know some of our national leaders throughout the week, and Darby and I got to know each other a little better as well. 

-Linda Altermatt, CST/CFA