The room was definitely electric as the Opening Session of APA’s 36th Annual Congress got under way. As attendees arrived, colored strobe lights panned the room, and attendees were treated to the sounds, sights, and shapes of this year’s Annual Congress theme, Pay Another Day.
Suddenly you could detect the sound of live stringed instruments. Were three Bond girls on stage with violins? Actually, it was members of Bella Electric Strings, a group of female rock/pop violinists. They entertained attendees with their unique and energetic playing style and stayed true to the theme with a sizzling James Bond medley.
After they performed their first set, the tone turned patriotic as attendees listened to a recording of APA Executive Director Dan Maddux’s rendition of “America the Beautiful” juxtaposed with video images of Americana, ranging from races and rainbows to mountains and memorials.
The Bella Strings returned to finish their performance. Next, attendees were introduced to Agent W-7, James Blond, via video and then in person as he officially kicked off the Opening Session and turned it over to Maddux.
Maddux presented the APA's Immediate Past President, Sondra Dougherty, CPP, with a citation and watch. Dougherty then introduced the APA’s new President, John Raguz, CPP.
Maddux and Raguz then announced the 2018 Payroll Man of the Year and Payroll Woman of the Year. (Find out who took top honors.)
The Opening General Session wrapped up with a keynote presentation by actress and businesswoman Jane Seymour.
Additional reporting by Kiko Martinez
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