Merry Christmas and Some Final Thoughts....

December is finally here and it has been challenging year to say the least. I am very proud that TABA leadership anticipated that the year would be difficult going into 2009 and planned accordingly.  We are now running just about as lean as we possibly can from an operational standpoint and we continue to refine our projects to maximize their success.  The Board, our various committees and staff work together to make sure TABA pulls through every circumstance and we will continue to do just that.  

Our projects oftentimes met or exceeded budget, with the year end result reflecting that success. The Home & Garden Show was a fantastic success and all early indications are that it will be in 2010 as well.  The 2009 Parade of Homes was successful in showcasing the abilities of area builders.  Our membership events, such as the golf tournament and reverse raffle took a hit due to attendance, but our introduction of the first ever TABA fishing tournament helped make up for that loss by attracting a large contingent of members and non-members alike.

In planning for 2009 we guessed our membership numbers could fall, and unfortunately they did.  In comparison with associations around the country, TABA was fortunate not to lose as many members in these tough financial times, but losing even one hurts, so there is no positive when membership numbers drop.  If there is a silver lining to this it is that many of our departing members noted intentions to return when business picks back up.  We will eagerly welcome them back when they are able.  In all, membership for the year is down 30 members, or about ten percent. 

All said and done, TABA was able to finish the year in respectable financial condition and better than we estimated when preparing our 2009 budget.  This was due to the cohesive effort put forth by our leaders, sponsors and members under the watchful eye of President Chris Alexander of Texas Tradition Homes.  Her goal in planning was to do our best to take the burden off of our members when it came to sponsorships by limiting the number of meetings we had.  This led to heavy emphasis on the success of the meetings we did have and we spent a great deal of time trying assure that goal was met. 

No doubt, 2009 presented TABA with many challenges, all of them were met head on.  More times than not, we came out on top and my guess is 2010 will be no different.  Though we continue to expect challenges going into 2010, TABA is blessed with many committed leaders and I hope to be writing about improvement in all areas this time next year.

I hope everyone has a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.  I look forward to seeing all of you next year at our first event of the year - 2010 Home & Garden Show and Preview Party on February 26th.

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