On behalf of the Houston Section Executive Committee (Excom), I would like to invite all members to take the opportunity this year to become active within the section.  There are many activities within the section to enhance one’s self both professional and personally.  The Excom and I are looking forward to again providing a brad spectrum of member activities in 2008.   

 The Houston Section CED program will be back is back in full swing with several courses that cover new and exciting topics.  Please take some time and visit our web site and to see what will be offered this year.  In addition, if there is a subject matter that you would like to see included in our CED program, please email the suggestions for considerations to Paul Barrett. 

As you are all aware the IEEE is a volunteer organization, and we are seeking new volunteers.  We have had several people contact one of the Houston Section officers and a few have attended the monthly Excom meeting.  Again, if you are interested in becoming active, please take the time to consider volunteering in some capacity, the return on time invested is well worth it.  Contact one of the individual within the section Excom committee and attend one of our planning meetings.  The Excom meets at the HESS building each 4^th Thursday of the month with the exception of a few summer months.  We have many opportunities for you to contribute and to develop a larger network of professionals from which to draw.

The Executive Committee and I hope each of you has safe practices and procedures both at work and at home throughout the year.  As we have already started the year with a bang we are looking forward to an exciting year in 2002 and as always we are looking for your feedback and comments.

Justin McCaskill
IEEE-Houston Chair