First post:

Having just returned from Party In Paradise, it seems fitting to make my maiden posting. Since I hadn't participated in the bulletin board (I just tagged along with Cousin Craigsz to hang and Scuba dive), I went feeling a bit of a party crasher...yet I returned feeling a special guest. Not knowing any of you or your protocols, I had no particular expectations. Well, it was great fun from the moment I checked my liver in at the Red Carpet at LAX. I was so impressed about the great amount of work and creativity this took to pull off. Army invasions have less percision. Moreover, the generosity of so many of you was mind numbing. What struck me, however, was the total lack of glad-handing. The connections being made weren't business, but social, i.e., "Oh, I'll be in Brazil that week as well, let's get together for a drink."

Now, having returned and preparing for a financial audit that the State tells me will last 15 business days, I'm reflecting that the Gala was, in a sense, my Last Supper. Jesus should have eaten so well and been surrounded by so many fellow travelers. Thanks to all for everything.