A big shout-out to the CIE Swag Squad who crushed it at October Conference, spraying swag across the Milliken Auditorium!   Using a slingshot re-engineered by CIE emeritus Mark DeLonge, the team sent stuffies and blankets soaring to the bleachers. Then the Squadies lobbed swag to the closer seats, while the crowd went wild!  Consider booking the Swag Squad for your next event.  Mark, Ryan Bernstein, Lisa Blackford, and Kristen Salathiel are really good at throwing things at people.

Kudos as well to Breana Goodell and Hollianne McHugh, who ran interference at the opening reception, bravely positioning themselves between incoming guests and the donut table. They made sure everyone had a swag bag and program in their hands before enjoying their morning coffee and treats. Thanks, ladies!

Then there was CIE office manager Tracy Welch, who logged more than 12,000 steps at October Conference, prepping all the classrooms before and after the sessions. Tracy also helped with swag and other logistics in addition to presenting at two sessions. Tracy, you are the best! Most CIE board members also presented while pitching in with other tasks. Amazing!

I am so lucky to work with this crew:  Ryan Bernstein, Lisa Blackford, Breana Goodell, Ken Klumpp, Hollianne McHugh, Nick Roster, Kristen Salathiel, Rachel Wilczewski, and Tanjas Wittrock. 

NOTE: The photo is from the 2025 October Conference. Same folks this year, but a better slingshot!