There’s snow on the ground and the mercury is struggling to find double digits here in Chicagoland, which means it’s that time of year when we start dreaming about the next time we’ll see the sun, i.e., the next CMPA convention!

This is a reminder to save the dates for the CMPA 2014 convention in Washington D.C. Things will kick off with a dinner event on Tuesday, March 25. We will be partnering with our friends at NMPA for this “special event” and expect this to be an exciting way to launch our meeting in the nation’s capital. So you will want to be at the hotel and prepared to get on the coaches mid-afternoon. Members of the Action Fund Board and their spouses will want to arrive a day early for meetings and lobbying activities beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24. Convention meetings and activities will run all day Wednesday and Thursday, and the convention will conclude on Friday, March 28, at noon and be immediately followed by the Executive Committee lunch meeting.

We will be staying at the Ritz-Carlton in PentagonCity. It’s been some time since the CMPA has held a convention in a major city, so be prepared for a change of pace. We will be taking full advantage of all that D.C. has to offer, and there is sure to be a lot going on. Saturday, March 22. marks the beginning of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Because of this, we can expect many families on spring break to be in town. If you have kids on break, this would be a great year to bring them along to experience the history and splendor of Washington.

Lisa and I have visited the property and are working on putting together the program for members and spouses. This Ritz has all the comforts you’d expect, but be aware this is a corporate/city hotel, not a resort destination. The rooms and service are lovely, but instead of a spectacular seaside view outside the door, expect the hustle and bustle of city life. Golf and tennis will not be part of the regular program but are certainly accessible for the fanatics!

So, I think that covers it for now. If any of you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Diane or me. We’d love to hear from you. Detailed information regarding hotel reservations and transportation from the airport and a schedule for all activities will be forthcoming in the new year.

All the best, and may you be blessed with a joyous holiday season!

John & Lisa Shorney