CARII members and Board of Directors out in force at CSLEA Conference
-- President's Message

Date: 10/22/2007

CARII had a great turnout at the 27th Annual CSLEA Conference, held October 18-21 at the Silver Legacy in Reno.

Five CARII members took us up on our offer to pay one night's accommodation and the registration fee: Ed Ackerman (Structural Pest Control Specialist), Dwaylon Calhoun (Dental Board Inspector), Robert Chedsey (Marine Safety Specialist), Lynn Fullmer (BEAR Field Representative), Leon Harris (DMV Inspector), and John Szalach (BAR Program Representative). They attended what was by all accounts one of the best Conferences in years.

Three members won our two raffle prizes of $250 each: Ed Ackerman won and graciously re-donated his prize (Ed won a 19" TV from CSLEA and did not want to be greedy). Robert Chedsey and Dwaylon Calhoun each took home $250. Leon Harris won two tickets to a Sacramento Kings' home game.

The highlight of Saturday night's banquet was our recognition of Jim Hopkins' dedication to CARII and CSLEA. Jim was involved in the creation of CARII and CSLEA (then known as the California Union of Safety Employees). He will be retiring soon from the Bureau of Electronic and Appliance Repair (BEAR), and we wanted to let him know how much we appreciate his participation. I for one will truly
miss Jim; he has been a source of historical information as well as someone who has helped keep me grounded and focused on the task at hand – representing our members.

Joining in the celebration of Jim’s retirement were the entire CARII Board of Directors and the six attending members listed above. The board includes Lillian Hayek (DMV Inspector), Tom Ineichen (Structural Pest Control Specialist), Matthew Peake (Marine Safety Inspector), James Rhodes (BAR Program Representative), John Thompson and Allan Widmeyer (both CSLB Enforcement Representatives).

Rachel Lasota also attended the Board meeting but was unable to stay for the weekend. William Glasgow was unable to attend due to an illness in the family.

CARII was the only CSLEA affiliate with a display table to show off merchandise with our logo. James Rhodes brought along some BAR "swag" that was a big hit. Both James Rhodes and John Thompson participated in the CSLEA Foundation's Schemes, Scams, and Rip-offs.

Next year’s conference will be in Palm Springs, and I highly urge every CARII member to attend.

Bruce Hotchkiss

[Pictured: CARII Board and members applaud and thank Jim Hopkins (seated) for his years of service]