The NCBC is committed to the professional improvement of its members and to the continued improvement of the bankruptcy system within the judiciary system. As a member of the NCBC, you will be taking a proactive role in shaping the future of your chosen profession. The larger our membership, the louder our voice will be when critical issues are debated in the Courts or in Congress.

The NCBC strives to network among clerks' offices throughout the country to discuss issues of concern and to share information. We track legislative efforts which affect bankruptcy courts and monitor policy changes under consideration by the Judicial Conference or the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. The NCBC President serves as an ex officio member on the Bankruptcy Court Advisory Group and as such, has the opportunity to represent all members in establishing policy and procedures. We have had input into the revised Work Measurement Formula and proposed changes to the Budget Allocation Formula.

We are sponsoring a Long Term Disability Plan which is comparable to the plan now being offered through the judiciary. Soon we expect to be able to offer a Life Insurance program to supplement the judiciary's FEGLI coverage. a Professional Liability Insurance Program for those of us who feel exposed to potential lawsuits.

On an annual basis, we conduct a National Conference which provides outstanding educational seminars and motivational speakers which many of us would not be able to experience without the NCBC. The conference also provides an avenue or forum for voicing your concerns and opinions and to get vital information about your profession.

We also publish a newsletter, The Impact, which keeps our members current on happenings in Washington and other articles of interest. Each issue contains a Message from the President on current items of national interest. We also periodically publish Impact On The Air, an audio broadcast similar to a news or entertainment radio show.

For the good of our profession and your own personal growth, I urge you to consider being a member of our organization. If you have questions or comments, please feel free to relay them to one of the Board of Governors or to me personally. Also, if you have an interest in serving on one of our NCBC committees or running for office on our Board of Governors, please let us know. Only through solidarity and working together can we make an IMPACT.

Kenneth Gardner, President