2001-2003 biennium agenda completed. (In Unison).

As we approach the end of the biennium, in this, the final column from this MTNA president, it seems appropriate to assess MTNA's accomplishments with regard to the agenda the Board of Directors adopted at the very beginning of this biennium.

In July 2001, the Board approved a seven-item biennium agenda, and I would like to report briefly on each of the seven points. Item 1: Assess and adjust services to the membership as indicated.

With the assistance of Vice President Kathryn Hull, NCTM, and her task force, comprised of Louise Beckstrand, NCTM, Philelle McBrayer, NCTM, and Virginia Koun, NCTM, the Board evaluated the current services and suggested services to the Board. Notable among the new services to members MTNA has established during the biennium is the insurance and financial planning program offered to the membership through The Robert H. Clarkson Insurance Company. Insurance programs include professional liability, secondary medical and prescription drug discount options. Many have said that the services offered through Clarkson alone are worth the price of MTNA membership.

Item 2: Establish the "practical" music teacher's library.

Again, Kathryn Hull is the leader who has brought this to fruition. In this effort, Kathy was assisted by MTNA members Jerry Davidson, NCTM, Peggy Lewis, NCTM, and Ellen Shapiro. The thoughtful results of their work may be found on pages 46-49 of the December/January 2002/2003 AMT.

Item 3: Continue to improve MTNA programs that recognize and reward excellence in the music profession.

Perhaps the largest initiative undertaken in this area was the task force chaired by MTNA Treasurer Paul Stewart, NCTM, and comprised of Board members Ann Fernandez, NCTM, and Scott McBride Smith, NCTM. This task force was charged with bringing to the Board suggestions for simplifying the MTNA Student Competitions Program. Their work was thorough and comprehensive. The Board at its December 2002 meeting, assisted by MTNA Director of Competitions Linda Stump, addressed the suggestions and approved a considerably simplified and improved document concerning the competition repertoire, as well as the rules and procedures. The results of this momentous effort will appear in the April/May 2003 issue of AMT.