Harry McAfee, ABA President

Progress for the ABA sometimes seems slow but it also appears to be steady.  Over the years, we have been somewhat hesitant to make drastic changes, but then again that has kept us from rushing into situations that deserve careful consideration.  I think we are blessed with many progressive and forward thinking members who are ready to meet the challenges of each new generation.  I am pleased to announce a few changes that will make our jobs easier and save our Association money.   Number one, we will no longer print and mail copies of the ABA Handbook or Directory to each of our members.  The Handbook format has been revised for easier use on our website.  Special thanks to Joel Mason, District I, for his assistance with that revision.  Secondly, our ABA Directory is also being revised and will be placed on the website in a format that will be user friendly for our various needs.  The information will be password protected so be sure to keep that confidential.   Be assured that the ABA Executive Secretary and leadership will always be judicious in keeping our information from being misused.  And finally, although the Cumulative List has been on the website for some time, it too is being revised into a format other than the PDF so that you can search or sort in a more convenient way.

Of course, the biggest issue of change we face now is the attempt to solve calendar conflicts and other issues with our State Assessment.  Jim Knight and his committee have compiled a questionnaire that will give you an opportunity to express your views and needs.  You can complete the survey by going to: http://bama.ua.edu/~chancock/ .  Please take time to do this before the end of October.  During November, Mr. Knight, Dr. Carl Hancock, and the committee will compile the results and use that information to develop the plans that will be presented.  We will not be able to vote on this at AMEA but should have time to discuss it.  The committee can then propose legislation that can be voted on at the All-State Festival in April.  I again urge you to become involved in working with us to develop a system that will meet the needs of all our band programs.  Please remain an active member with the ABA, the association that represents all of the bands in Alabama.