March 2010

PRESIDENT'S NOTES

The saying, "In like a lion, out like a lamb", holds true for the March weather in the U.S. Northeast. Snow flurries are coming down as I write these March notes, but I do know this should give way to more spring like weather towards the end of the month. This weather proverb actually has a celestial origin, specifically the constellations Leo, the Lion, and Aries, the ram (or lamb). The phrase references the relative position of the Lion rising at the beginning of the month and the lamb rising at the end of the month. As far as what that all means for your horoscope, I have no idea; and I no longer remember which navigational stars, if any, can be used in those constellations.

However, at CMA, the expression parallels the energy and excitement level of preparations and anticipation for the annual Shipping Conference roaring into my hometown this year on March 22, 2010. Exhibitors, delegates, moderators, speakers, sponsors, students, supporting organizations and local CMA companies descend upon the Stamford Hilton Hotel over the course of three days. Actually, with attendant activities of other organizations, it is now five full days, not counting the early arrivals from Europe, Asia and elsewhere in this hemisphere. It's a long time to be on-stage.

It is a an international representation rivaling the Olympics complete with colorful company and association flags in the hotel lobby, podium award presentations throughout the event and culminating with the prestigious Commodore Award and multimedia closing ceremonies, otherwise known as the Gala Dinner and Commodore Afterglow. It is a truly special event bringing together new and familiar faces, friends and colleagues. With a myriad of current topics, networking opportunities and exhibits, Shipping 2010 offers something for everyone.

The conference brings people together to share information, to conduct business and to enjoy doing it all. I look forward to seeing you at the show, so please stop me in the hallways to say hello or introduce yourself. See www.shipping2010.com for the program outline and to register. The conference is also an Olympic size effort on the part of Jim Lawrence, Lorraine Parsons and the team at IMS. I cannot say thank them enough for all their hard work.

Finally, not a week goes by that I am not reminded about the unpredictability of events and how life can change in a moment. My prayers and thoughts are with those whose lives were affected by the devastating earthquakes in Chile and Haiti. May spring bring new hope to them.

Best regards,
Beth Wilson-Jordan
CMA President