Slim Lattimer
From:
Anaheim, CA USA
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Posted 19 Jun 2002 11:35 pm |
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As most of you know, steel players are generally the least noticed musicians on the bandstand and it is seldom that we are provided with other opportunities to promote not only our wonderful instrument, but also the music that we love. I believe that is important for us to individually seize any appropriate or favorable time or occaision to enhance the public awareness of the steel guitar and of course our music.
Recently, I have had the privilege of being voted in as President of the California Country Music Association (C.C.M.A.), a non-profit organization, whose main purpose is to recognize, support, and award Country Music Artists, including Youth. This organization cooperates with and supports Country radio, television,cable,websites,publications, charitable organizations and business associates on a state level.
I would like to reach out especially to all of the steel players, in addition to other musicians, songwriters etc., who are current or former musician members of the C.C.M.A. and to thank you for your past support of the organization and to encourage your continued participation. Personally, I would also like to encourage those of you who have any past issues with the C.C.M.A., to bring them to my attention, along with any helpful suggestions, even if you no longer live in California, (please see the contact information below).
As a pedal steel guitarist, member of the Steel Guitar Forum and frequent reader of Forum topics, I am well aware of the cold hard reality of the general decline of interest in Country Music. Being informed and sensitive to the various topics discussed here just reinforces my verve to do my best to seize this opportunity to make a difference. The C.C.M.A. is primarily involved in Country Music, and I have the utmost respect and love for this music. In addition, I am a staunch supporter, who loves and appreciates the diversity of fine steel guitar work by our fellow Forumites like Lonnie Bennett, Gary Brandin, Doug Livingston and Mike Perlowin.
We can all be ambassadors for the steel guitar and the music we love in our neighborhoods. The examples we provide, the encouragement we give to young people and the grassroots (the common or ordinary people esp. as contrasted with the leadership or elite of a political party, social organization etc.) efforts put forth by sincere and dedicated folks is what leads to change for the good.
Recently, the C.C.M.A. Board of Directors approved many major changes. Most significantly is the discontinuation of separate Regional Directors, and temporarily putting a hold on Regional Competition Award Shows. This year we will produce one large State-Wide Competition and Award Show in the Adult Division. Regarding the Youthful artists of the C.C.M.A., all youth members will be allowed to compete for state awards, it will not be necessary to hold regional competitions. Also, we will include new categories to include Youth Bands and Youth being backed by adult players individually and with their backup bands.
With these and other management changes in place, we are looking for help through out the state in terms of keeping us advised. Regional Advisors are being sought, from all areas of California, who will be responsible for having current knowledge in their area and to keep the Board informed of any new artists, bands events or any business that may relate or be an interest for the organization. If you are interested, please feel to email me at: STANKAY52@webtv.net, or you can call me collect at (714) 630-4334, or post a reply here on the Forum.
You may also contact the California Country Music Association's office at (714) 998-3330, mailing address: P.O. Box 30003, Anaheim Hills, CA 92809, or email: ccma@earthlink.net
The C.C.M.A. Web site is: www.ccma50megs.com]http://www.ccma50megs.com]www.ccma50megs.com[/URL][/url]
Sincerely,
Tom (Slim) Lattimer
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PIGEONS [This message was edited by Slim Lattimer on 22 June 2002 at 12:47 AM.] |
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