There is a new talent to be offered up to all ASO's: It was the Washington Association of Accountant's distinct pleasure to have NSA Secretary-Treasurer, Brian Thompson, CPA, as a guest at our annual convention this past weekend. Brian addressed our group at different times during our meetings. The capstone to the privilege of having him in attendance came during our installation dinner.
Just as we benefited from Past President Donny Woods' surprising talents, during our installation dinner last year, we were duly surprised by Brian's (rumored) talents this year. You see, we have been auctioning off a very special bottle of Chianti (pronounced Shi'-an-ti, according to Brian) for the past 4 years, to help fund the NSA Scholarship Fund. Bob Cross was our first auctioneer, as he is certainly a professional. Last year, when Donny learned of that event, he informed us that he held a Master's Certificate in auctioneering from taking that very course-work via a correspondence school. Of course anyone who has witnessed his (natural) talent, coupled with his Master's training, has fully appreciated such an encounter. Donny can take what only requires of Bob Cross, 10 minutes to complete and turn it into a "masterfully" delivered 45 minute fundraising "event".
So, this year, when Brian Thompson, learned of Donny's performance last year and when we informed him that we had reason to believe that he too held some level of auctioneering credential, he did indeed offer himself up for this year's "wine" auction. Brian's (natural) talent (a talent, surely concentrated in folks from the south, as compared to Pacific Northwesterners) was obvious, yet notably not as fully bestowed on him, as on Donny. Brian, too, holds a certificate in auctioneering, but not a Master's Certificate, as does Donny. Brian earned his certificate via correspondence school from the Weiner School of Auctioneering, in Weiner, AR. Brian, although not a "Master" auctioneer, did masterfully auction off the "Shi-an-ti" in about 30 minutes. Obviously, under the mark as set by Donny Woods, a true Master Auctioneer.
So, WAA has witnessed from these 3 fine gentlemen, auctioneering talents and abilities at 3 different levels. And the funds raised merely underscore the level of mastery in each.
Bob Cross - Professional Auctioneer - Funds raised for 1 bottle of Chianti - $175
Donny Woods - Master Auctioneer - Funds raised for 1 bottle of Chianti - $300
Brian Thompson - Certificated Auctioneer - Funds raised, 1 bottle of Chianti - $225
Clearly, Donny's training is at a higher level than Brian's, but it will be interesting to see how Brian's mastery improves with opportunity!
Thanks to all three of you!