I have always believed that our strength as a union emanates directly from you – the rank and file musicians. Your collective action has the power to change the internal and external dynamics of our union. I thank you for your vote of confidence and accept it with humility and a full understanding of the responsibilities that accompany it.

I want to congratulate all those who ran in the recent election. Whether elected or not, your willingness to participate and serve makes our union stronger. Choice is an essential component of the democratic process. It is my hope that many more of you will choose to run for union office in the future.

Now that the elections are over, it is time to move forward. As I write, the new officers have assumed office, transition meetings have taken place and an orderly succession is underway. I am pleased to be able to report that these meetings have been conducted in the most congenial atmosphere consistent with the high expectations you have a right to expect.

David Lennon, Bill Dennison and I have discussed a new division of responsibilities. Of course the financial vice president will continue to oversee the union’s finances. Jon Bogert, our very capable Local 802 controller, will continue in his position handling the day-to-day financial operations. Supervision of the Concert Department will return to my office. Some of my additional responsibilities will include supervision of the Membership Department, the Computer/Data Entry Department and the Music Performance Trust Funds.

As promised, a portion of the increased work dues will be directed to fulfilling the staffing needs of the Concert Department. Frances McDonald will be the assistant to the financial vice president. Fran is known by many of you and I have already come to rely heavily on her invaluable experience and dedication. In addition Local 802 will be hiring a full-time concert business rep and secretary. I am convinced that once in place, this team will serve the union well, efficiently meeting the various needs of our membership.

As you might imagine, this is an exciting time for all of us at Local 802. I welcome your participation. Together we will face challenges old and new – and together we can trump each challenge with a thoughtful, creative solution. Let’s begin!