It's a new year, with new challenges and new opportunities.

Chief challenge, is to once again look for a stable - permanent "home".  With the Armory going over to ASU, random lock changes etc.. that location appears to be out.  Danny and I are putting out letters and feelers for a new place. We'll keep everyone apprised.

Challenge #2 - Growth. Both in numbers and quality. We are at that middle ground, where we don't have a full band (missing a Bass drummer, Tenor(s) and could always use at least a couple more on pipes).  The hard part here is home growing everyone.  Not only do we need to teach from scratch, but with 2 people doing the instruction, and at least 4 levels of students on 2 instruments, it's difficult to give substantial 1:1 time.  I truly wish we could afford regular extremely high level instructors to come in and work with us, but we do not have the budget. So, we just keep plugging away. Each person at every level will put in the effort and practice they're comfortable with, and improve to the level that practice allows.

I'm very much hoping to send at least one person to a week long camp this year (not counting myself). When, Where and Who will depend completely on:

• When - The balance in the band bank account, and the individual's schedule
• Who - by attending practices, participation in those practices, and obvious improvement due to personal practice
• Where - Depends on the instrument, when we get the $ and what camps are available.

Opportunities to play will likely come mostly through word of mouth.  If we're not out promoting ourselves, why?  What is the gap between this being interesting enough to drive to, but not enough to routinely be telling people about the band, and inviting them to either join or hire us?

I look forward to the next year. I hope that all of you will help keep me motivated, as I'll endeavor to keep you motivated as well.

David.