CAI: The introduction to Bloomington

CAI -- ever since I started working at NAA, I heard about CAI. "It's so great -- it's a time to bond -- I really became a better Auctioneer attending CAI." Yeah, yeah, yeah. So Harlan and Lois have put me to work -- I'm serving as staff support for Class I.

After months of preparation, we finally packed our bags and headed to Indianapolis. I have my three CAI staff shirts, loads of clothes and a desire to learn what is so special about this week that many graduates look for an excuse to come back. So here we are -- now I get to see what all the fuss is all about.

I'll also have ot admit, this is my first foray into blogging. I've decided I want to try it. So tell me what I'm doing right -- and tell me what I'm doing wrong!

Yesterday, Harlan, Lois and I met Christie King (advisor for Class III) and Mark Geyer (CAI Vice-Chair) at the airport in Indianapolis. We caught the shuttle to Bloomington (I didn't see much of the country side because I was watching the KU scores pop up on my Blackberry -- KU won, so I hope to see a little of their game tomorrow!).

We got in, checked into our hotel room and began to unpack the 17 boxes that held the CAI materials (flash drives, notebooks, awards, a scanner and much, much more!).

After a quick tour of the Union, we decided it was time to eat (dinner time beckons!). Ate at a great restaurant in downtown Bloomington called Malibu's and then headed to the infamous Nick's. Now CAI and Nick's is always mentioned in the same breath -- Nick's is an icon and after visiting Nick's, I have a better understanding. Lawrence has the Wheel and Bloomington has Nick's! More to come during the week!

Terri Walker joined us at Nick's and Lois, Christie, Marc and Terri and I had a great time -- Harlan wasn't feeling well but we made up for his absence. We made it an early evening, though. Want to make sure we are ready for the upcoming week.

On Sunday, we worked with the CAI committee to make sure things are on track. And although it was some work, it was cool to see how serious the advisers and the CAI committee are about making sure this is a great learning experience for all of the students. And frankly, they are all great people -- this week is starting off well!

Tracy and I will be meeting our class at 6 tonight for dinner -- so more photos and more fun to come! I am so psyched about this!