Happy New Year! As I write this on January 1, 2012, I am filled with optimism and renewed vigor to take on the challenges of the year ahead (the 80 degree weather and sparkling sunshine certainly doesn't hurt my mood, either).

I look forward to working closely with our new Board of Directors in making the Foreign Trade Association (FTA) as relevant and valuable to our members, and the greater trade community, as possible in 2012.  

I would like to thank all of our sponsors and supporters in 2011, and thank, in advance, all of you again for your valuable contributions in 2012.

2011 was a rough and tumble year, and we all hope for stronger worldwide economic performance and stability in 2012. And despite some encouraging signs (volumes were up at our ports this year), the global debt crises, the apparent lack of governments' worldwide to manage money and geopolitical developments in the Arab world are all concerns as to how we will fare in 2012.

That said, active participation in organizations like the FTA is one way in which we cannot only stay closely connected to these dynamic events, but also have some effect on their outcome. 

As I mentioned in my holiday address, I invite you to become active in the FTA, either by attending one or more of our events and classes, the World Trade Week luncheon in May or one of our networking mixers.   
 
In addition, I invite our members to participate by serving on one of the following committees:

Communications & Marketing: Promoting the FTA through new media and applications

Membership: Tracking and promoting membership

Advocacy: Maintaining the FTA's official position on matters of importance in international trade and commerce

Programs & Education: Planning and development of events, programs and classes

Signature events: Planning and Management of our signature events - World Trade Week Luncheon, Golf Tournament and the Holiday Luncheon

Bring your colleagues or business associates to one of our events to show them the value of being a member of the FTA. Check in with us at www.foreigntradeassociation.com for a full view of what we are currently doing.  Contact us directly with your program ideas, interests and issues at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

I thank you and look forward to seeing you all in 2012!

Dan Benoit, President