Thank you Texas Bandmasters Association members and sustaining partners for a wonderful 2007 Convention/ Clinic! Your tremendous support and fellowship are always a welcomed constant at our gatherings. As Past President I would like to extend my gratitude to Al and Jan Sturchio, Alfred Esquivel, Robin Tovar, and John Gates for their untiring work ethic in making TBA what it is today The Board of Directors makes TBA decisions, but they make up the team that brings fruition to those decisions. Additionally, I want to thank Past TBA Presidents for their guidance and leadership during my tenure.

I hope all of you who attended the clinics have learned, or in some cases remembered, lessons from our clinicians that you will implement this year. The band movement can only continue if we teach and motivate one child at a time. The band future depends on successful beginner band programs that are taught by motivated instructors who understand this unique group. In this case, the group age does matter. As a teacher you become the resource for your aspiring musicians. Take time to evaluate yourself and become a "new andimproved" resource. Stay positive! Do not allow yourself to be affected by the pessimists around you... believe in yourself! This is one lesson I learned from my music and competitive mentors. If you need help, ask a successful professional to give you focus and direction. Also, study successful programs near you and adapt what you learn to your program. The practice of teachers willing to learn from each other to better their musicians is, in fact, what TBA is all about... always has been.

Once again, I want to highlight some aspects about our organization that are unique. The TBA Convention/Clinic offers many clinics and concerts, two meals, two exclusive exhibit times and a fun spouses/family schedule. This is different from other similar conventions. If you teach in the state of Texas you have to acquire 12 credit hours outside school hours each year. The TBA Convention/Clinic can fulfill that requirement. I truly believe that TBA is your partner in your daily profession. If you have not attended in several years, plan to come in 2008 and renew that musical and learning spirit.

2007-08 Presidents Cody and Starrla Myers have next year's convention underway. Cody and Starrla are fine and forward thinking individuals that will bring new dimensions to TBA. Ongoing details for 2008 may be found on our web site. As always, TBA members' comments are always welcomed by all board members. Contact information for the TBA Board of Directors is listed on page 3 and under "About TBA" on the web site. We listen to TBA members!

There is always a connection in our bands' family environment. Many parents, spectators, and professionals admire what TBA and band people have accomplished and, in particular, the individuals we produce. Many business/professional articles on personal success are attributed to music students. Band programs are noted for producing students that are intelligent, diligent, motivated team members and pressure-performing individuals. The highest compliments afforded to me by many of my students are that they joined their college or community bands, have become consumers of music, or joined the teaching profession. The majority of them often remind me of past concert performances and competitions. I know their children will learn the same joy of making music! This makes my new retirement rich.

On behalf of my wife Gloria and me, thanks again for the opportunity to have served TBA these past years. TBA has changed and adapted to issues and events of its time and continues to flourish and grow to meet our members' and business partners' needs. We are proud to have been a small part of this journey It is our wish that all of you continue to invest in your future and continue to be TBA members. TBA is the band director's partner in "the art of teaching band"!

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