At the beginning of the new year, I think it is appropriate to count our blessings. As Chair of the Texas Center I am thankful for the many, many judges and Texas Center staff that have made my job easier, fun, and worthwhile. If I list everyone who has been supportive, there would be nothing in In Chambers but this letter. Of the many who should be named, here are a few:

I am thankful for Justice Liz Lang-Miers, Judge David Garcia, and Texas Center Financial Officer Amy Cook for the untold hours they have spent working on the Texas Center budget and business plan for this year.

I am thankful for the peaceful relationship between the conference committee working on Fund 540 issues -- both those from the Center and the Court of Criminal Appeals. I am thankful for Chief Justice Linda Thomas and her devotion to the Texas Judiciary, judicial education, and legislative issues affecting the judiciary.

I am thankful for the Curriculum Committee members (past chair Judge Steve Ables and current chair Judge Marilee Lewis) who are responsible for planning and executing the premier education programs that the Texas Center will be presenting this year.

I am thankful for Judge Lee Hamilton and his fund-raising committee for their enthusiasm and quick response to our fund-raising needs.

I am thankful for the Texas Center Board of Directors who have cheerfully and energetically responded to all that has been asked of them. I am particularly thankful for the Texas Center staff, headed by our Executive Director Ms. Mari Kay Bickett. The Texas Center staff have a particularly challenging job. Not only have they meticulously coordinated all of our conferences, they have accomplished this under different management each year!

Let there be peace, and best wishes to all!

Hon. Suzanne Stovall