During the past year it has been my pleasure to serve as your NFBA President. During that time, my main objective was to follow our Association’s mission of promoting bluegrass music and thereby increasing attendance at our NFBA functions. With increased attendance at our third weekend pickings, our awesome turnout for the Ryan Holladay concert, and our record-breaking turnout for the Expo, I can proudly say that your 2006 Officers and Directors have made it possible to meet that objective.

Now its time for me to turn the leadership reins over to the new President as well as some new Directors. I am confident that your 2007 Officers and Directors will do an outstanding job for you and will work to take the Association to the next level. Although I have other commitments for this year, I will continue to be a strong supporter of the goal of the NFBA to promote bluegrass and will do my part as a member.

Thank you, friends, for your confidence and your support this past year. Your kind words really mean a lot to me and … I will be back! When the time is right and I can devote the time needed, I would like to hold an office again one day. Until then …

Many, many thanks,

Rick Ray
President

A Message from our newly elected President, Cable Spence.

I am humbled by my election to the presidency of the NFBA. It was quite unexpected. But, elections being what they are, surprises have a way of happening. I shall do all in my power to continue the successes of this organization. With the support of the board of directors and input from you, the members we can look forward to a prosperous and event filled 2007.

We all owe a big "thanks" to Past President Rick Ray for his untiring efforts this past year and for his invaluable help with "Coastal Blue", our popular youth bluegrass band. To the veteran board members returning for a new term, we shall be seeking out your wisdom and support as we draw up plans for 2007. To newly elected board members your fresh views are needed and will be most welcome.

I will be meeting with the new Board of Directors in February to get reorganized, after which we can begin work on this year's program.

Again, thank you for your votes of confidence in me and those board members whom you have elected. May you all have a very happy 2007.

Cable Spence, President