...thanks to those who made it all possible, John Fields (getting award from AJ Kent)!

Tom Zampieri gives Bud Shelton some last minute notes before retiring from VAPAA as Executive Director.

Our speakers were top notch, with topics of current interest to all. Jim Aderhold, PA-C gave lectures on Obesity and other similar topics. He was very available for questions outside the lecture hall as well.

Leora Elli, PA-C gave a lecture and did a survey on the perception of how clinicians perceive the feelings of their patients. Le is working on her PhD and used the audience as her subjects for the projects.
It was fun!

Tom Zampieri received an award for his many years of service to the VAPAA as past Board Member, Secretary, President, Legislative Chair and finally Executive Director. He is the only Honorary Life Member and is going to be missed when he moves to Washington to work full time for the Blinded Veterans Association as the Director of Legislative Affairs. He will do well as this is his forte. Good luck, Tom! We'll miss you a lot!!!

Tom received a genuine Italian leather briefcase. We thought he needed something to impress those legislators in DC and give the shivers to the VA Central Office heirarchy when he calls upon them as part of his new job.

Dr. Gerald Cross graced us with his presence and held a panel discussion on topics chosen by the audience. He is a very positive influence on the VA central office, having just retured from the Army and was most recently involved with setting up the Army's new Community Based Heatlh Care Initiative before coming to the VA. We warmly welcome him!

Finally, Denni Woodmansee, Acting PA Advisor to the Under Secretary (PAA) introduced Dr. Cross at the final morning's session in order to present (now) Lt Col Joseph Streff, formerly the PAA, with a VA Special Contributions Award Certificate for his work as the first PAA in the VHA. Joe had to resign due to being involuntarity extended to a second tour of active duty and didn't want to see the position without permanent leadership. Denni has been the Acting PAA until the position is posted. Joe is working in the Community Based Health Care Initiative that Dr. (COL, Ret.) Gerald Cross started just before coming to the VA. Joe says it's a resounding success!