Well, this blog is being posted a bit late because yesterday, launch day started early and ended late (as will every other day this week!). The day started with the staff breakfast and assignments for the day - 7:00 a.m. with the reward for getting up so early being hot oatmeal!! It dawned cloudy yesterday in San Diego but by mid-morning when the delegates were arriving en masse, it was brilliant sunshine and warm temperatures. Registration has proceeded smoothly and our local arrangements volunteers are doing a magnificent job.

The pre-Biennial programs concluded yesterday. The Union Board met, as did several Union committees. The URJ Press store and the live entertainment stage opened yesterday at noon. The new WRJ Women's Torah Commentary is in the bookstore and ready for you to take home your very own copy! Remember that EVERYTHING at the URJ Press bookstore is 15% off retail during the Biennial. This is a great opportunity to get the books and CDs you've been wanting but just haven't had time to order online!

The Exhibition Hall opened at five with a wine and hors d'oeuve reception that was very well attended. As Biennial Chair I felt it important to be one of the first to make a purchase from one of our vendors - a beautiful bronze mezuazh covered with a wax coating in the colors of the rainbow! Please visit and support our exhibitors - the exhibition space is extraordinary and there is plenty of room to move around!

The opening plenary last night featured music by Doug Cotler and Julie Silver, a reflection on the Southern California fires in October with a special appearance by the son of Union Board Member Fran Krimston of Northridge, CA, who is a firefighter in Southern California, a welcome from my welcoming remarks, some "business" and a provocative program on the US Supreme Court and the presentation of Mishkan Tefila, the new Reform prayerbook.

It was a BUSY day but an exciting day (first day of Biennial always is) and it will just more exciting as we head toward Shabbat!