And so it begins...

As captain of Team Ferguson, I arrived in Kansas City yesterday, ahead of the group, and now I'm enjoying a view of the downtown skyline from 27 floors up. The hotel is already buzzing with delegates from other cities, most of whom, like us in Ferguson, seem to be feeling a mix of excitement, bewilderment and just plain fatigue.

I attended an event briefing this morning at 7am, in which we were able to ask questions and learn more about the overall awards process. Afterward, as I was waiting for an elevator, another team captain echoed exactly what I was thinking: "I sure hope this is worth it."

She told me that her team had been practicing for six weeks, and that between raising money for the trip and handling all the other details required for this competition, everyone is a bit antsy. I totally understand.

What we're all vying for is the oldest and most prestigious civic award in the country. And no doubt about it...preparing for the trip and the competition has been quite a test.

Beyond just creating a presentation that illustrates our community's challenges and successes, the 22 members of Team Ferguson have had to learn their lines, brush up on their acting skills, raise thousands of dollars and dedicate countless hours to this endeavor. One member, Bev Walker, even had to make a Ferguson quilt square!

So we've definitely been busy, just like every other team here in Kansas City. And although the All-America City reps keep telling us to "just relax and have fun," we are all anxious. Because every single one of us wants to win!

I expect the rest of my team to get here around 2pm, then we're off to orientation at 3:30pm and our first (and only) official practice at 6pm. Our presentation, which you can watch live online, is tomorrow at 4:20pm. And the awards ceremony - what we're all really waiting for - is Friday from 7-9pm. It will also be streamed live online.

I hope all of you back in Ferguson will watch and cheer us on! We're well prepared and ready to go, but we'd sure appreciate your good, positive vibes to help us do our best! Go Team Ferguson!