As we begin this new year, there is a lot of optimism that the economy and our businesses will continue to get better. As it does, I think we all have a better appreciation for what we have accomplished. Now is the time to strengthen our foundations.

We have our work cut out for us this year, but I have great confidence that we have the right people to guide us through it. At the inaugural ball, I challenged our board of directors and committee chairs. We will need everyone’s help to achieve our goals, but in the long run it will benefit all of us with stronger programs and lobbying efforts. Get involved, and please send us your ideas and suggestions.

Your committee chairs have already been hard at work planning events this year. I encourage everyone to get on at least one committee. They are a great way to be active and to get to meet new people. Plus, its rewarding to know an event was successful because of your help.

We are going to get the year started off with a new event in January. Our kickoff party will allow our committee chairs the chance to recruit your talents for our unique events and goals.

In February, we will be bringing back our “date the builder” night. This event provides the opportunity for our builders to meet new subs in a one on one 5-minute presentation. Appropriately timed to get us prepared for the busy construction season this spring.

On March 2, we will welcome William Strauss with the Federal Reserve Bank. He will provide us with a new economic forecast for 2017. I encourage everyone to invite a guest for this popular and insightful event.

As always – do business with a member.