CodeMash: Thank You

Wow! Let me say it again. Wow! CodeMash was an amazing success and we have no one to thank but the community. If it wasn't for you - the organizer, the speaker, the sponsor, the attendee, the Kalahari employee - the event never would have taken place. I would, however, like to thank some individuals for everything they have done. I actually tried to do several posts during the event each of which was going to thank some random group of people. Unfortunately, I could only complete the one. So before I get into some of the specifics of what I've learned, I want to dedicate this post to those outstanding individuals.

Organizing Committee

• Jim Holmes - Our leader and the guy who somehow or another talked me into this crazy venture. Without him, CodeMash would be nothing more than a good idea. Thanks for the opportunity, Jim.
• Jason Gilmore - Another outstanding individual. His involvement in almost all facets of the event was key to our success.
• Brian Prince - Talk about knowing how to get things done. Not only was he heavily involved in all of the prep work, but he made the registration process happen at the event happen among many, many other things.
• Jason Follas - Jason was there recruiting sponsors, designing t-shirts, and anything else that needed to be done.
• Dianne Marsh - Despite her one word mantra during our daily scrums - "Signs" - Dianne, was actively recruiting sponsors, attendees, discussing logistics with her event-seasoned friend, Lauren...Dianne was everywhere. I might also add, she was part of the conspiracy to get me involved. Thanks, Dianne.
• Josh Holmes - He was there from the very beginning and was instrumental in getting things started. After taking his new position at Microsoft, he continued his involvement in many different arenas.
• Drew Robbins - Always a major supporter of our community events, Drew has done a lot not only for CodeMash, but our user groups as well.

A couple of people who were instrumental during CodeMash

• Joyce - Sorry I don't know your last name, Joyce. Joyce is Dianne's neighbor and has little or no interest in anything computer related. She simply wanted to help Dianne. She was a huge help.
  
• Jeff Blankenburg - Jeff designed the logo which is peppered thoughout my blog and worked his tail off at the event.
  
• Alexei Govorine - Worked hard at the registration booth and even got to put his SQL Server skills to the test.
  
• John Hopkins - Yet another event he shows up to and pitches in where he can. The man has done a lot for the .NET community.

What's a conference without a venue. The folks at Kalahari were a real help and deserve a mention

• Kathy Siford - My first contact at Kalahari. Thanks for all of the guidance.
  
• Mary Smith - Great job dealing with all of my requests shuffling people all over the hotel. I know it was difficult.
  
• Kathy Kopchak - If you saw it at the conference, Kathy coordinated it. And you probably noticed there was a lot of coordinating. Thanks, Kathy.
  
• Steve Goris - He was the one that made sure all the things that Kathy promised us came true. Steve, the place was fantastic.
  
• Matthew Dick - Last, but by no means least, Matt made sure all the attendees, speakers and organizers had internet access, making it possible for "live" blogging. Had some great conversations with him and even heard him say that he WANTS TO BE A CODEMASH ORGANIZER! Can't take it back now, Matt. Sorry. You'll be getting a phone call