I would first like to thank our speakers, Brian Shipwash, Steve Grobel, Larry Powell, Adam Camras, David Platt, Erin Lentz, Ysidro (Rex) Sandoval and Robert Dick. Our moderators, Scott Hall and Kermit (Toby) Tobias did an outstanding job, thank you.

As we at Bail USA were preparing for this convention our theme was “it’s all about you, the bail agent”, more than ever Bail USA wishes to thank all of our dedicated loyal bail agents, without you there would be no Bail USA. Thank you for another year.

The most important factor to remember about this convention was no matter what you are going through on the streets of your home town; we are all in this together as a family and an organization, we have your back.

I was concerned enough about all of you and the decline of business that I invited the following bail agents to join me on my advisory board, Scott Hall, Troy Hansen, Mel William, Hal Goldstein, Teri King and Dan Lederman. Together we decided to form committees to address the industry problems. The committees will meet and come up with ideas that have been successful when fighting similar problems. If you have a problem, call and we will set up a conference call to assist you. When you have an organization like Bail USA behind you there is no need to walk through business problems and afraid of what tomorrow may hold. Call or email me at cburns@bailusa.net with your advice, your willingness to help or subject matter for each committee.

An education committee has been formed. The members of this committee are, Mitch Mitchell, David Platt, Ernie Arredondo, Julie White, Tyona Rensen, Corrin Rankin and Sparkle Kelly. This group will be responsible for the education agenda at the next convention. They have some excellent ideas. If you want to participate on this committee please call or email me. We will continue to have one national meeting yearly, but with smaller conference rooms available to address regional issues.

Brian Shipwash spoke about Pretrial. He reinforced with the group that Pretrial’s goal is to abolish the bail agents nationwide. He spoke about the “Florida Right to Know Act”. We spoke about state associations and the need for them. We learned about what it would take to create and pass state legislation. We highlighted states with strong associations such as North Carolina and Oklahoma. I know there are many more but these were the two mentioned.

During the afternoons we concentrated on recovery of skips and the use of tasers. We thank Larry Powell of North Carolina for being brave enough to be shot with a taser gun. My memory of that event will last for eternity. Thank you, Larry.

Tuesday evening we had an awards banquet. Plaques were given out to the bail agents in attendance. Harvey and I understand that you have choices, and we sincerely appreciate your loyal support and dedication not only to our industry, but to Bail USA.

For more detailed information about the convention please feel free to call or email me. Remember to check our website in the coming weeks as convention photos will be available soon; www.bailusa.net.

Watch for more convention pictures and information to come in our special edition newsletter. Remember to check out our website for up to date information on next year’s conference, www.bailusa.net. Where will I take you next? Will the accommodations meet this year’s standard. I will keep you posted as my travels begin in search of the city to host Bail USA convention 2009.

Sincerely,

Cheryl Burns