It is January, the beginning of a new year, and hopefully we are all filled with a renewed spirit of optimism and hope for what lies ahead in 2009.  For those of us involved in the housing industry, 2009 is certain to be a year of challenges stemming from the economic crisis that began last fall and has dramatically impacted all of us.

In October at our Awards Banquet, I mentioned several goals I want TABA to focus on in 2009.  One goal is to continue to grow our membership and work diligently to retain our current members.  I won’t attempt to rehash all of the benefits that membership in our organization affords us since they were discussed in the December issue of On the Level.  However, I would like to mention a particular benefit that I personally believe is very important.  NETWORKING WITH OUR MEMBERS is an integral aspect of TABA membership.  Building business relations with our members shows respect and appreciation for their commitment to TABA and the home building industry.  Our members are the key to the success of our organization and our industry.  Our community of builders should reward our associate members with every business opportunity you can!

The “Buy Now” campaign, which began last fall, is proving a successful boost to existing new home sales in our area.  The sale of existing homes allows our builders to start new homes which in turn provides jobs for our subcontractors and suppliers.  Latest reports indicate that more than 25 percent of the original "ready to move in" homes that are associated with our campaign have sold since it was created. The campaign website www.templeareahomes.com is proving to be a valuable asset that can serve us well into the future. Thanks to Jason Carothers for spear-heading the committee charged with overseeing this effort and thanks to all those who have been involved! 

The Home and Garden Show which is scheduled for February 21st and 22nd is just around the corner. There are still available booths, so to those of you that are considering being part of the show, it is not too late to secure a spot.  If you don’t need booth space, but want your company recognized, you can sign up to be a banner sponsor and have your banner hung in the domed arena.  Remember, our Home and Garden Show is recognized as one of the best in the state and attracts thousands of people over a single weekend.  This show may be the best advertising “bang for the buck” your business can get when it puts you directly in front of 5,000 people over the span of one weekend.  Thanks to Jared Bryan and his committee who have been working for many months in preparation for TABA's biggest income producing event of the year.

We extend a final note of thanks to Derrick Hunt for his leadership during 2008.  We are appreciative of his personal and professional commitment to TABA.  Thank you Derrick and other outgoing 2008 directors: Jamey Secrest, Greg Davis, Tony Gallagher, Jason Peavy and Mike Pilkington!

I look forward to serving as TABA president in 2009.  I know that we will be facing extraordinary challenges and I am grateful to know that I share this responsibility with a board made up of leaders who bring much wisdom and experience to our organization.  Thank you to these members who did not hesitate when asked to serve: Jason Carothers, Robbie Johnson, Lisa McKinnon, Mat Naegle, Will Sears, Bruce Walker, Jared Bryan, Kelly Hosch, and Scott Goodfellow.  With the valuable experience and assistance of Cheryl and Troy, we pledge to work together to make 2009 a year of opportunity despite an uncertain economic future.

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