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December 2024 President’s Column
President's Comments
By: Steve Weitekamp |
On the preceding page is a guest column from former CMSA Chairman John Chipman Jr. that is well worth a read, even if you don’t currently handle military moves. US Transcoms Global Household Goods Contract (GHC) and its award to HomeSafe Alliance (HSA) are a case study of how NOT to roll out a new program. John is filling in for Chairman Vince Cardinale in this issue as Vince is in the middle of peak season for his Christmas Tree business. Vince definitely practices what he preaches when it comes to diversification. In addition to diversifying his moving and storage business, he has successful businesses in Halloween pumpkins and Christmas trees! Thank you, former Chairman Chipman, for your willingness to always support the Association.
While Chairman Cardinale is not writing a December Column, it was, but a small bit of relief for a very busy Chairman. Our November schedule was full of chapters and regulatory activity, and I expect the same for January. In addition to visiting the Twin Counties, San Diego, and Orange County/Beach Cities chapters, Vince joined me on an early morning flight to Sacramento in between San Diego and the OC meetings. In Sacramento, he joined me for the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) Advisory Council meeting. After a four-hour meeting, we headed back to the airport and with Gale’s assistance made it to the Orange County meeting. In addition to our presentations on the state of the industry, we had the unique opportunity to celebrate former CMSA Chairman Joe Hammer’s 95th birthday. The date of his birthday was the date of the meeting and in the style that was common in his generation, not so much today, he didn’t let the milestone get in the way of being at his chapters’ dinner meeting. Happy Birthday, Joe! You give special meaning to the term CMSA Ambassador.
It is difficult to believe that another year is ending and the 107th annual CMSA Convention in beautiful Lake Tahoe is just around the corner, but it is true. As we close 2024 we take a moment to remember with gratitude all who we hold dear, near and far. On behalf of our small staff, Manager Gale Iwashita, publication assistance from Debbie Denehy, and myself, we wish you all the best this holiday season and in the New Year!
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