Happy New Year! A few might ask what to be happy about, to which I would reply that optimism and happiness are the true measure of success and far superior points of view to the alternative. Optimism does not mean we do not see or understand the challenges that come our way, only that we address them with a workman-like attitude, not freezing up with thoughts of dread or despair. We will do all that we can to ensure that our position is heard and considered in all matters related to our industry. Having just returned from our annual CMSA January Military meetings road trip, I reflect on our unique situation as California movers.

Our annual Military Chapter meetings in early January are unique to CMSA and show the value of different groups working together. We started a dozen years ago by inviting the International Association of Movers (IAM) to come and speak to the CMSA San Diego Chapter about annual modifications and updates to the military moving program, then managed by the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC). Just saying that gives me the nostalgia of simpler times or at least a period when the military would listen to industry for the betterment of military families and those who provided moving services. We also invited IAM members and move management companies to participate.  The event's success was the genesis of its growth to include other chapters, AMSA, and its successor, ATA MSC, in subsequent road shows.

This year's roadshow included member visits and chapter meetings in the Twin Counties, San Diego, and Central Valley chapters. It was a successful and worthwhile trip that included 600 miles of road time, hotels, and flights for guests. Other than high winds in the Grapevine and frost in the Central Valley, California avoided the severe weather that impacted most of the country the week of our event. California is blessed with the best climate regardless of political or economic climate!

It is difficult to over-emphasize the importance of member participation in the success of an Association. You can have a terrific leader and an effective staff, and still, without membership buy-in, participation, and support, it is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve your goals. CMSA is blessed with the best membership in our industry!

In addition to Chairman Chabot, IAM VP Dan Bradley and former Chairman Tim McCarthy and I made it to all three meetings. I speak frequently about the unique nature of volunteer leadership in the CMSA, but this year is something special. The leadership (Chairmen) of both IAM, Chairman John Burrows, and ATA MSC, Chairman Bill Lovejoy are not only California Movers, but active members of the San Diego Chapter of the CMSA. Amazing maybe, but CMSA has long produced industry leaders, and you never know where you can end up, if you don’t start.

I look forward to seeing you at upcoming CMSA Chapter meetings and fundraisers as well as at what is sure to be another memorable convention! Register today for CMSA’s 106th annual convention.

January 2024 - CMSA Communicator