| February 5-10 , 2008 |
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Almost every year, the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) Winter Meeting occurs in Washington, DC in February. These meetings provide me with a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with colleagues and interact with federal representatives on a variety of topics important to our work in North Carolina. This year’s meeting was particularly productive. It has been my honor to serve as the NASS Representative to the Electronic Commerce Coordinating Council (eC³) and as eC³ President for 2007. The value of eC³’s white paper on redacting sensitive private information was well received by fellow Secretaries of State and others working in the public records arena. The Business Entity Task Force co-chair also allowed me to update fellow Secretaries on vital federal issues. An exciting bonus to this meeting in Washington was the opportunity for the International Committee of NASS to visit the Blair House. The Blair House serves as the official guesthouse of the President of the United States and is located directly across the street from the White House. Throughout its history, Blair House has played host to foreign heads of state visiting the White House on official business. A sense of history fills each room- especially the Lincoln Room where President Lincoln offered command of the United States Army to Robert E. Lee. Not only did Lee decline the offer, but he also resigned his commission shortly thereafter. Lee’s letter of resignation is framed and on display in the room. I could truly go room by room and relate to you the many historic moments that have taken place in this building and the fascinating stories I learned on the tour. The opportunity to visit this building is a once in a lifetime opportunity that I shall never forget. Best Regards… Elaine
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