By now you've probably noticed (or not) that there is a new byline on the President's letter for 2015.
My name is Jim Wilbrandt, and I am proud to introduce myself as the IACAC President for 2015. I was elected to the position at our monthly membership meeting in November. 
As we reflect back on this past year, the association has taken off. With the launch of the new website last February, a cold wet golf outing in August, the annual Toys-for-Tots Christmas Party and numerous guest speakers, has increased our membership by 40%.
As the incoming President, I will like to take the baton that Mitch and the past board have passed and continue on the right path to increase membership and the focus on the airlines and air cargo community. We envision collaborating more with the other trade associations who share similar interests as ourselves such as the Chicago Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association and others.
I would like to again personally thank Mitch for reinventing the association and bringing in a new attitude. I look forward to working with him and the board to continue his vision. I also like to thank Chris Aguirre, Laura Brown, Kate Koenig and Jennifer Crotty for their past services on the board. You all will be missed and wish you luck on your new endeavors. We hope to see you at the luncheons and functions this year.
The kickoff luncheon will be held on Tuesday, January 13th at the Holiday Inn on Landmeier and Busse Road in Elk Grove Village. This event is just more than a networking event, but also a town hall meeting for the board and members to converse on the direction of the Association. This is your Association, so we want to hear your input. What kind of speakers will you like to have? Events? After hours events?
Register for the luncheon here.
So far we have the following scheduled for this year, Southwest Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Brandon Fried, our Annual Golf Outing on August 11 and the Toys-for-Tots Christmas Party on December 8. Please keep these dates open for these educational and fun events.
If you ever have a comment or have a question regarding the association, please feel free to contact me at jim@basicent.com or call my cell phone at (847) 704-0360.