President for 2005/2006:  Jim Squier

With another term under my belt, the challenges of the first year have faded into the past and the accomplishments of 2005-2006 have been much more evident. We have had a very successful year at TBMA in the past fiscal year.

TBMA has supported newcomers in a variety of programs over the past year. ISAP, HOST, NSP, LIS, and LINC Assessment were more successful than ever last year, but our new programthe LINC Schoolwas the highlight of the year. Seeing the School constructed and the first classes attending was very rewarding. The grand opening in November was very colourful and culturally diverse with the presentations by the students. It was a pleasure to be a part of the opening celebration, and especially to hear the Boonpeng children sing about the seasons in Canada.

Our Folklore Festival was another highlight for me this year. Folklore is the annual coming together of Thunder Bays cultural groups to celebrate our communitys diversity, and it continues to be an important event in the citys festival calendar. We had high attendance and a full compliment of dedicated and experienced volunteers.

The need to partner with other organizations and to band together to serve newcomers has given us the opportunity to work closely with DOORS to New Life, Thunder Bay Police, Diversity Thunder Bay and many other groups in the region. Without the support of the staff, a dedicated Executive Director, and the board of volunteer directors, TBMA would not be as successful as it has been this past year.

My first year as president was a learning experience, but this past year has been fulfilling and challenging from the perspective of new programs and the possibilities of further growth in the North. I have learned a lot about the relationship between funders and the staff and board, and am more confident going into the next fiscal year. I look forward to working with TBMA for many years to come, and as President, if possible.

Jim Squier