This year has been a year that we will not forget. “May you live in interesting times,” supposedly paraphrases a traditional Chinese curse. On its face, it appears to be a blessing, but it is meant ironically. Life can definitely be easier in uninteresting times of peace and social tranquility. But even with everything that we as individuals, industry, and community have been through we have continued to survive and for many movers thrive. It is definitely my hope that 2022 is at least a little less interesting, but there is no guarantee. The good news is that CMSA members continue to remain willing to adapt to the marketplace and take advantage of the industry-specific information brought forth by the Association.

I hope that you agree with me that the holiday season is more than just a time for family gatherings, gift-giving, and favorite foods. It is a time for Gratitude, a time to take inventory of all that we should be thankful for. When I reflect on our Association, I find many reasons to be grateful, many of which we highlight in our monthly Communicator. Today, I am focused on professional and personal mentorship. The structure of the CMSA presents many opportunities for all of us, at different times with different issues, to be both mentors and mentees. Opportunities abound to be engaged with your fellow members in volunteer service as a chapter officer, committee or board member, and even as Chair of the Association. All who participate find themselves with the opportunity to participate in mentor-mentee relationships to the benefit of both parties and their respective organizations. My own time with CMSA has seen many mentor/mentee relationships, and I am grateful for all who have traveled with me on this journey.

It has become an annual end-of-year project for CMSA to discuss with the Bureau of Household Goods and Services (BHGS) possible adjustments to the Maximum Rate Tariff 4 for the new year. The good news is that the Bureau has worked hard to get us a draft for review in a timely fashion. We are pleased with their efforts which includes a 4.3% general increase on almost every rate in the Tariff and intend to post the 2022 MAX 4 on our website and email a link to all members as soon as it is finalized, hopefully, the first working day of 2022. Be on the lookout for this email, which will also include an invite to a CMSA Zoom call to review modifications. Be sure to replace all current copies with the new 2022 Tariff.

On behalf of the CMSA staff (Renee and Gale), my family and I, Chairman Chipman, and the CMSA Board of Directors, we wish you a joyous holiday season shared with those you hold dear and all the best in the year ahead!

December 2021 - CMSA Communicator