This is my last message of the year.  I hope that you had a good year and prospered.  Many good things happened to and with the Professional Photographers of California.  First off, all of our previous debts have been repaid.  We are debt free!!!  We had one of the most successful convention and trade shows in recent history.  West Coast School is alive and well.

But no more horn blowing, we must look ahead to 2008.  The PPC/PPA Regional Print Competition is right around the corner.  Don't panic yet but it's definitely time to make you prints and get them sent in to the PPC office.  Here is a chance to have your prints judged by PPA judges and made better for PPA National.  If they merit here then you automatically merit at National.

Our 2008 convention promises to another great one.  The trade show is almost sold out already!  The speakers are lined up and "we and the entertainment is ready".  Come "Experience PPC!"  Room with a friend and get good rates by booking now at the Sheraton. 

Get ready for the West Coast School sign up to begin and you will need to sign up quickly as these classes are the best ones I have seen.  I already have my credit card ready to order when the sign ups go on line. 

Now comes the hard part, what can you do to help PPC?  Number one is to tell another photographer about PPC.  Bring a friend to the convention or you could even volunteer to help at the convention.  What a great way to make new friends and see the convention.  I am excited for the new year coming up.

And yes, I already have my prints ready for competition. Print competition does make you a better photographer by having the best of the best telling you how to make your prints better.  Sometimes I have to disagree with the judges but it definitely makes me look at my work closer and makes my job more fun.

See ya in 2008.

Michael Collins, President

Professional Photographers of California