I stepped into this position a few months early when my predecessor stepped down unexpectedly. I wasn't prepared. I like to plan and plan, and create a back-up plan, and have alternative back-up plans. I once was told that I plan my life like a play, but I'm foiled because the players in my life don't play their parts the way I imagine. It's why I can't play chess. I understand the rules of the game well and have played since I was a child. It is a completely hopeless game for me. 

The job of President is really to support all the volunteers doing their jobs. Plans often go awry and members become frustrated. During the past 17 months as President, there have been flare-ups and meltdowns, hugs and brush-offs. I'm intimately familiar with "last straws" and overworked volunteers. Sometimes board members were incredulous at some of my own missteps. 

And yet...the Board of Directors, the Committee Chairs, the 100-plus volunteers continue to rally together to make the Arizona North Chapter one of the most successful chapters in the country. Our common passion is design. Just like the design process, it ultimately is about the people and the relationships. I have been blessed to work with the best of the best during my years on the Board.

Come Say Farewell...

The chapter meeting Thursday at Kitchens Southwest is my last chapter meeting as President.  Please join me as we welcome back Kitchens Southwest into our membership. Come say good-bye to our outgoing Financial Director, Linda Heinz, FASID; Communications Director, LaDawn Bentley, ASID, and myself. Come learn how you can join a committee next year and create lifelong connections/friendships. 

You too will be blessed.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support!

Cindy Lewton, ASID

2012/2013 President