PRESIDENT'S NOTES

As 2004 begins, there is an expectation of new beginnings and fresh starts. For our Symphony as well as the Symphony League, it marks the midpoint of an absolutely incredible season! It is amazing as I look over these past few months to realize all that has been accomplished. The 'Heart and Soul' of our volunteers brings credibility to the theme of the 2003-2004 season of the Symphony of Southeast Texas.

Thanks are in order to Canda Kessler, for her tireless energy in securing volunteers for the Symphony of Southeast Texas Youth Concerts in November. Thanks also to Danita Fierce, who put together and distributed the SLB yearbook!

By the time you read this, our String Competition, chaired by Nancy Newton and Meshelle McDormand, will have been held. Many thanks to these two ladies and their committees for the hard work put forth to encourage young string musicians!

The final details of our Symphony Ball are coming together under the dedicated and encouraging leadership of Sonya Coffman. This event is the major fundraising activity of the Symphony League of Beaumont, so mark your calendars for February 7, 2004, and make your reservations now!

We continue to see "Heart and Soul" in the work of our Symphony. It is evident in the passion with which they play, and in the response of those who are listening. Don't miss our concerts on February 12 and April 7. Continue your support, or begin now as a new ticket holder. Volunteer in some capacity to sustain the momentum of our Symphony and the League which exists solely to support it. Let's keep the arts alive as we support our wonderful Symphony of Southeast Texas!

Sherry Goth - President, Symphony League of Beaumont