Like Amy, I am going to forget people and come back with edits later, I'm sure.
Amy and Greg - you two were fabulous. I realize and fully appreciate how much hard work and dedication it took from the two of you to pull this regional together.
On the same note, thank you to the regional directors, the producers and management, and the regional planning committee - you truly were patient, and gracious, professionals.
Mark Koors - thanks so much for putting up with my questions about equipment placement during field setup on Wednesday and a very sincere congratulations on winning the Woodie Flowers Award - the stories that your students tell about you are nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Blair and Collin - you guys were quite the dynamic duo as emcee and announcer. Even though I was the first one out, I'll never forget the time I played dodge ball on a competition field
Blair, you will have a shirt waiting for you in Atlanta, I promise!
Volunteers and crew members - all I can say is "wow". You kept the regional running in top form and greeted every team with a smile as they passed through the pits and field.
Kevin Kolodziej - you'd better keep dodging, ducking, dipping, diving, and dodging so you are ready for IRI! Thanks for playing with us - the soreness will wear off soon enough
Ricky - I whined about Styx and bathrooms. I was crabby and flighty at times. I used your laptop. I probably made a fool of myself on the morning news today. And I made you a peanut butter, pickle, mayonnaise, ham, cheese, oreo, and carrot sandwich on whole wheat out of frustration. Thanks for everything. WI is going to rock the house because "It's the fi-nal count-dooooowwwwwwwn!"
Scott and Libby Ritchie - Thank you very much for recognizing me and saying hello. It was a pleasure to meet you both, despite the fact that we only spoke for a short time. Hopefully I'll run into you and your amazing teams at the Championships and IRI.
The Rookie Teams - You provided incredible competition while displaying unbridled heart and GP. Congratulations especially to 1747 for winning the Saftey Award, 1741 for winning the Rookie All-Star and Inspiration Awards, and to 1720 for being the highest rookie seed and thank you for selecting us as your partners. Best of luck to you all in your future competitions and endeavors!