I had a great time this week in beautiful San Diego for the 97th annual California Association of Public Procurement Officials. President Paul Herman and his team did an excellent job putting on this conference. And what a great turnout! I was told there were almost 400 attendees....and a fantastic expo turnout as well. Congratulations to Debbie Casper for receiving the Presidents' Award and to incoming President Kiauna Norman....she's going to be a very energetic and effective President. It was an honor to represent NIGP, along with our CEO Rick Grimm and Region 11 Representative Mike Clawson, at the conference this year. Always wonderful to network and partner with our professional colleagues in CA. I was pleased to see so many younger people at the CAPPO conference. Always concerns me when I don't see enough of our younger generation engaged in this profession. There is still much work for us to do in this area. So, encourage more of my seasoned veterans to help our profession by mentoring a young person new to public procurement. they need to understand the value of networking, continued professional development and contribution to our great profession. We need their new energy, their new skills and their new perspective.
Had a chance to meet with some ladies from The Hawkins Company. Yonnine and Brett are assisting City of Los Angeles Water and Power to recruit an interim Assistant Director. It's a 1 year opportunity with the possibility of being able to compete for the position when approval is received to fill full time and permanent. Seems they need someone right away, but could only get approval for the interim one year. Pay is around $150K w/benefits. At first blush, many professionals might deem this an undesirable position. However, as I listened to them talk about the position, I think it would actually be a great opportunity for the right person. Sounds like their new director has the right energy and passion to create a progressive operation and needs someone immediately to help her move the organization forward. I could see a younger professional tackling this opportunity (although they are looking for 10 yrs experience) to take that next step in their career or perhaps a soon-to-be-retired or recently retired veteran who might enjoy a new challenge without a long term commitment. Either way, help spread the word for LA....it's listed on the NIGP Job Board.
Finally, my thought today (as I head back to the airport to fly home to Tucson) is to remember to be courteous to others. I took a cab this morning from the hotel to the airport. A very short, quick ride. As I arrived, the cab driver told me it was $5 and I handed him a credit card.....all I had on me. He got visibly upset and then snapped at me "don't you have cash?!". Then he quickly told me to forget it, jumped out of the cab, dumped my bag on the curb and got back in the cab without saying a word. he was quite upset and quite rude. Although I understand why he wasn't thrilled about the prospect of the credit card transaction fee, I was intending to tip him $10 for the trouble. However, since he reacted, he eliminated his own tip.....and I very nicely shared that fact with him. Sheesh! What a way to start the day.....but a good reminder for me.....always try to be kind to others.....even when it would be easier to give them back what they are dishing out to you.
Have a great day everyone!