As 2011 comes to a close, it is valuable to take a moment to look back on the year that is ending. This year had its highs and lows but your Association remains strong with a positive impact on industry issues, and an ever watchful eye on the horizon. From a business perspective, most members would agree that 2011 was better than the prior year, but there is still significant room for improvement. This year saw continued negative issues related to unlicensed and illegal operators using the Internet to scam the moving public, but there also was an ever more savvy, legitimate industry benefiting from Internet marketing and social media. Hopefully, some members benefitted from the strong technology program that was a large part of our 2011 Convention program.

This year saw the entire transportation industry struggle with the looming and onerous California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations. Several industry associations, CMSA included, worked hard and were able to win modifications to CARB’s On-Road Diesel Engine regulations that will benefit CMSA members. Military movers are still adjusting to the new reality of DP3, but as a result of the effort of CMSA and its Military Affairs Committee, the SDDC has a greater awareness of the challenges faced by the Agent/Service Provider in the military relocation process. Your Chairman’s column in this issue reviews several of the positive programs that CMSA is able to support thanks to the dedication and hard work of the membership. A recap of a year must acknowledge that CMSA is about people and the passing of a friend or colleague is always a low point. CMSA shares with families and their businesses the loss of several long-time members over the last 12 months.

Looking forward, there are chapter meetings and fundraising events already scheduled for the first half of 2012. Scheduled for February 21st and 23rd is an important seminar program on Independent Contractors that will address regulatory challenges described in previous columns. April is the month of our 2012 Convention, with the theme this year as “Playing to Win.” We are working on a Convention program that will assist you in charting your own winning strategy. In addition to a strong educational emphasis, the schedule will provide opportunities for play as well. A brief review, schedule of Convention events, and a Convention registration form are included with this issue. I would encourage you to complete and mail back your registration today.