A Letter from President Ames

Dear GAWDA Members,

Are you ready to attend the GAWDA Convention in one of the most beautiful cities in the nation? The 2007 Convention Planning Committee has worked hard to see that this convention will exceed all of your expectations from an educational, social and networking perspective.

Our theme this year is "A Golden Opportunity to Bridge New Partnerships." Mr. Distributor (not Mr. Active), I would like you to review the advance registration list and identify any suppliers you may represent and come with a plan to speak with them. This would be an added value to your business plan. Mr. Supplier (not Mr. Associate), I would ask that you do the same. Please take a glance at the advance registration list, speak with your sales representatives, and identify distributors within your geographic location. Surely new partnerships can be formed with a little advance planning. This is our theme and goal in San Francisco. A little effort prior to the trip should make the convention more successful for all GAWDA members.

The opening business session will feature presentations from Dick Morris, who will enlighten our members on the upcoming 2008 election, and Ricardo Malfitano, who will speak about the challenges we are all facing in the gas supply chain. As always, our consultants will be giving us the latest information in their areas of expertise. Brian Deveaux will discuss the ins and outs of mergers and acquisitions during the closing business session. The closing keynote address will be given by Robby Gordon, Nextel driver/owner of the #7 car, who will tie in the conference theme by presenting on partnerships, relationships and respect.

The GAWDA Gives Back Committee has chosen the Hamilton Family Center as this year's worthy cause. In April 2007, the Hamilton Family Center was honored at the White House as being one of the best organizations in the country working to end homelessness. They still have a long way to go, and with your support they will get closer to turning the homeless into self-supporting taxpayers. If President and Mrs. Bush thought enough of Hamilton Family Center to present them with this honor, they should have our support, too. Please show your GAWDA spirit by donating today!

Attention all you Parrotheads! You'll be sorry if you miss the President's Gala on the San Francisco Belle. We'll be cruising the bay to the sounds of Parrotbeach, a Jimmy Buffett tribute band.

Patty and I look forward to seeing you in the city of romance, culture and incredible views. Travel safely.

Bob & Patty Ames