The New Year is here and with it comes the opportunity for a fresh start. Everyone likes a clean slate and the New Year shines a light on new beginnings and fresh opportunities. We’re all enthusiastic at the start of the year, but for most of us, our heartfelt resolutions end up challenged in a wrestling match between available time and our best intentions. This can be the year to make a difference in how you approach what you would like to achieve. 

• What are the specific goals you have in mind for the coming year? 
• What needs to be in place to get you where you want to be? 

These questions swirled around my head as I began to plan my goals for the Musicians’ Assistance Program for the New Year. I’ve been reflecting on how grateful I’ve been to all the members who have helped me gain a deeper understanding of the unique problems facing musicians, particularly in our current economic climate, as they graciously shared their experiences and let me enter their lives. It reminded me of how important our partnerships are in helping me identify services and programs that you will find helpful.

While we are always here to respond to your questions and concerns we also want to hear from you about what would be helpful. With that in mind I would like to offer members to join the New Local 802 Networking group. It is “new” as some of you may remember this group from years past. It was a place to share information as well as support as only those in the business can do. It was a group that was both organized by MAP but really spearheaded by all who joined in. In short it was a partnership between MAP and all who participated that while MAP provided the organization everyone contributed their ideas on topics to be addressed.

The networking group was a place that provided members an ongoing opportunity to talk with other musicians about managing life in the business as well as hear from professionals on a variety of topics; health, finance, family issues and life in the business to name a few. 

By coming to the networking group, you may find answers to questions with which you’ve been grappling or find support by simply talking about your concerns with people who will understand. Working so often in isolation, we recognize that you don’t always have peers with whom you can bounce ideas around and brainstorm your creative thoughts. The community of musicians at 802 can provide a wealth of knowledge and support that only come from years of work in this challenging industry. 

Additionally, your input is a key component in program development for MAP. Your invaluable input assists us in creating and providing services that speak to your specific needs.

The Local 802 Networking Group will start off meeting on a monthly basis. If you are interested in joining please email me at MAP@Local802afm.org. Please include your particular concerns and what you would find valuable. Also, please include the days and times you are available to meet. If you don’t have email, you can call the MAP office at (212) 397-4802. 

I look forward to hearing from you.