I’m writing this letter as I reflect upon NetworkASA 2013 in Washington, D.C., in October. I can tell those who didn’t make it there that they missed a memorable time.

As I write my second-to-last letter having just returned from 2013 in Washington D.C., “refreshed” and “enthusiastic” are two terms that come to mind from not only my perspective as ASA president, but also as a convention attendee.

Earlier this year, I embarked on several busy weeks of travel which involved representing ASA at a series of industry events throughout the country. As my predecessors as ASA president can tell you, this involves providing association updates at various regional meetings, including gatherings of the Midwest Distributors Association, the Wholesalers Association of the Northeast, the North Central Wholesalers Association, the Southern Wholesalers Association, the Western Suppliers Association and others.

 Next month at the Renaissance Washington, D.C. Downtown Hotel, our industry and the ASA membership will come together to be part of OUR industry networking and educational event,  

How many times have you gathered around the counter and complained about our leadership in Washington? I know I have – too often it seems.  

We’ve all heard the famous quote “You get out what you put in.” We also know this quote holds true for many things in both our businesses and personal lives. It most certainly applies to a membership within ASA.