I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of you for supporting the American Association of Police Polygraphists. Through everyone's hard work, our organization has dramatically grown over the past thirty years. We are averaging 100 new members every year and in 2007, we set a new record with 178 new member applicants. Our 31st Annual Seminar in Jacksonville, Florida had our largest seminar attendance to date. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the hard work of Seminar Chair Karen Clark and her sidekick host Tammy Binder. Together they orchestrated an outstanding week of instruction and fellowship. Thanks Karen and Tammy for your hard work!

Every year, organizing seminars at different locations brings new challenges. Currently, the Board of Directors is working on our upcoming seminar in South Lake Tahoe. The board will meet in October to finalize the week of events and training. Janene has been working hard to line-up instructors for the week. You will soon receive the outline of events for the week of May 4-8, 2009 at Harrah's/Harvey's South Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino. We have a large room block that allows everyone to stay at this location. I also have the ability to increase the room block if needed. No more over-flow hotels! The board is working on a major raffle prize for the South Lake Tahoe Seminar. I believe you are going to be surprised about this announcement. If successful, this raffle will sustain the Scholarship Fund for many years. It will also allow us to raise the monetary amount or offer more awards. Stay Tuned!

On the financial side, I am happy to report that our association is in good financial standing. Over the past several years, we have set aside money to invest in our future. However, we are all dealing with uncertain times. Our economy is weak and I am apprehensive about what the future may hold. I am sure we are going to feel the impact within our association. I have spoken with many members who are having restrictions placed on them from their agencies about out of state training. The Board of Directors recognizes these problems and will make every effort to centralize our training around major airport hubs. This will allow easier access to the hotel and save money on airline tickets. Also, please keep Julie (National Office Manager) informed of any changes in your status. This saves time and money mailing out dues notices and journals.

SPECIAL NOTE: During the business meeting in Jacksonville, the membership voted to increase the annual dues from $100 to $125. However, this change was not made to the membership application printed in the July Journal. So, if you would please pass the word, the new dues will be $125. Thanks & sorry for the oversight.

I will soon be traveling to St. Louis to make arrangements for the 2010 Seminar. I have selected the Hyatt Regency St. Louis Riverfront as a possible host site. In 2009, the Hyatt will be going through a $63 million dollar renovation that includes all guest rooms, meeting space and lobby areas. The hotel is located across from the arch and a short 20 minute drive from the airport. I will keep you posted on how the negations are going. Please plan for St. Louis 2010! While walking through the vendor area at the seminar in Jacksonville, it is apparent there's no clear limit of how far polygraph technology can go. Our polygraph manufacturers play a significant role developing state-of-the-art equipment that makes the polygraph examiner's job easier. I would like to thank our polygraph manufacturers for their support of the AAPP over the years. Many have made significant financial contributions and donations over the years that have allowed the Association to grow and prosper. Thanks again for your continued support!

I welcome and encourage all of our members to provide us with feedback about our seminars. I know we have many members who have not attended a seminar since joining the AAPP. Once you have attended one of our seminars, you will see our members are the key to our success! We take great pride when our members tell us they choose AAPP for the knowledge, skills and fellowship they receive at our seminars. If you have recommendations or suggestions about anything, please forward them to a board member.

Again, let me thank you for your passion and loyalty to our association. Your commitment, knowledge and ideas will enable us to face the future with enthusiasm and confidence. To sustain growth, we all must all work together for our immediate future as well as our long-term success. Together, our efforts will ensure polygraph stays in the forefront of law enforcement services.

I thank you for the opportunity to serve you.

Toby McSwain
President
American Association of Police Polygraphists