CEO’s Report - April 2024

            BSSC CEO’s April 1, 2024 Report:

The work in Texarkana is going well with all our processes being kept on schedule or ahead of schedule. The folks who work here are dedicated and have their hearts in the work, and it shows. Like in any operation, we have our hindrances and setbacks, but the folks come through and make it work. Bogard Press produces excellent materials, and it is because of all those involved from the writers to the shippers.

We recently updated some of our software programs that should place us in a more advanced position technologically and enhance our support systems for the programs. I am often amazed at the high-tech requirements in today’s modern world, and the cost of those programs are not getting any cheaper. To remain operational in today’s world, we must remain up to date with our IT and Tech systems. The requirements for highly technical security systems are necessary to protect ourselves from a whole host of daily internet threats. We are blessed at Texarkana with great IT talent who keeps us safe and operational.

Recently, we were informed that paper cost is going to rise approximately 7% in April. We currently purchase about $478,000.00 per year in various paper goods. A 7% increase means a $33,460.00 increase in our annual budget. Along with the rise in paper, there will be about a $41,000.00 increase in annual insurance cost for property, liability, and health insurances. Other costs of operations are also rising this year, and these increases will certainly challenge our finances. Recently, our supervisory team worked on our budget developing a very reasonable working budget, and I was very proud of their good work and the results.

We are looking forward to the Baptist Sunday School Committee visiting April 23rd and 24th. The meeting has been changed for this year from a Monday and Tuesday meeting to a Tuesday and Wednesday meeting. The daily schedule will remain similar to previous years. We will be hearing from our insurance representatives from Brotherhood Mutual Insurance and our Employee Retirement Program representatives from Edward Jones Investments. Also, the ABA Officer’s meeting will be on Thursday, April 25th at 10:00 am at the facilities in Texarkana. ABA President Brian Sellers will be leading in that meeting.

In summary, the Lord continues to guide us and bless us, and all is well. Come visit anytime in Texarkana.

J. A. Crain