CMSA’s 96th Annual Convention Theme is “The New Digital Frontier”

The 96th Annual Convention will be held from April 29–May 4, 2014, in scenic Monterey, Calif. This year’s convention will allow you to explore “The New Digital Frontier.”

There is new information to share with our recent legislative success related to the electronic transmittal of California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) MAX 4 documents. This year, exhibitors will be presenting electronic forms, truck monitoring systems and evolving web-based tools for you to keep track of shipments as well as to promote your business to customers online!

Jim Mathis, a professional speaker, strategist and best-selling author, will be our 2014 Convention keynote speaker in Monterey! Speaking on his “Reinvention Nation” concept, Mathis has helped many companies reinvent themselves in their existing markets. His past clients include U.S. Department of Justice, Blue Cross Insurance and the American Red Cross. He has been able to coach business executives about customer service, enhancing personal productivity, leadership and sales improvements. Don’t miss this special presentation before the busy summer season!

Industry and motivational speakers, a van line discussion panel, a military breakout session, and an awards and donations ceremony are a few of the notable convention events scheduled this year. Attendees get an insider’s look on ways to improve their business and stay informed about current industry trends. Members can also see the fruits of their chapter fundraising efforts as scholarships are handed out to college-bound students and an annual donation is made to the Special Olympics.

Besides the educational opportunities, there will also be opportunities for socializing and networking between CMSA members. The Convention Golf Tournament will be held at the famous Del Monte Golf Course, the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi and just a few grassy steps away from the Hyatt Regency Monterey. The golf course features wide fairways lined with mature oak, pine and cypress trees, this Pebble Beach–property golf course is perfect for golfers of all skill levels. Reserve a foursome at the golf tournament and take your clients out for the morning! It will be an event that they won’t forget.

In addition, the highly anticipated Thursday night Exhibitors Welcome Reception allows movers to review and learn about new products and services offered by the state’s best suppliers: CMSA Associate members. Then on Friday night, delegates can relax and enjoy a fun off-site ocean-view barbecue dinner at the Del Monte Beach House. For more event information, please see the tentative Convention schedule on page 12.

Attendees can take advantage of the discounted CMSA room rate at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa — a luxury hotel property that is surrounded by 22 acres of beautiful Monterey pines. The property is nearby the award-winning Monterey Bay Aquarium, local wineries, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, Carmel-by-the-Sea and the breathtaking Big Sur coastline! Make this convention a productive yet relaxing trip by enjoying the following hotel amenities:

• Spacious guestrooms with elegant, natural furnishings that compliment outdoor beauty of Monterey
• Heated outdoor pools
• 24-hour gym, full-service racquet club and YogaAway option
• Biking and jogging/walking trails
• Variety of spa services
• 24-hour automated business center conveniently located in the main lobby
• Pet-friendly (Call hotel for details.)

Have a stress-free stay at the resort while learning about upcoming industry trends at the 96th Annual CMSA convention! Attendees can access the special group rate of $199 per night (plus tax). For those wanting to extend their stay before or after the convention, the hotel is offering rooms at the group rate three days prior to and three days after the convention dates based on availability. Don’t wait to make your reservations! The hotel is expected to sell out again this year, so make sure to send in your

Convention forms by the early registration deadline! Please call (888) 421-1442 to make your reservations in Monterey and request the California Moving and Storage Association group rate. You can also make your reservations online by visiting www.thecmsa.org and find the reservation link on our Convention Calendar webpage.
Convention registration forms are included in this edition of The Communicator. For additional copies of the forms, visit the CMSA website at www.thecmsa.org.

Submit your registration forms and payment by the early registration deadline of February 28, 2014, and you will be entered in a drawing to win $50 cash!  Remember: Only full registrations paid by February 28, 2014, will be entered in the drawing. Individual event ticket purchases are ineligible.

If you have any questions, please call the CMSA office at (800) 672-1415 (within CA) or (562) 865-2900. Hope you will brave “The New Digital Frontier” this year with CMSA in beautiful Monterey!