President's Column - Scott E. Tarry

Dear TRF Members:

Welcome to the second edition of the TRF newsletter in its new electronic format. I think this format offers the TRF the best opportunity to provide a timely and interesting newsletter and to tailor each edition to the specific needs of the organization and its members. Members can quickly and easily scan e-news to find information or topics that interest them. Web links provide easy access to more in-depth information and news. Want to see news or information on other topics? Let us know and we'll be happy to work with you to develop the content for our next edition.

I want to draw your attention to three areas of interest in this edition of e-news: membership renewals and new member recruitment; Annual Forum preparations; and chapter activities.

'Tis the season for membership renewals. TRF now has a secure online renewal process to make renewals quick and easy. We also implemented a dues increase this year after a number of years with no increase. I've sent a letter to TRF members explaining this change. Please take a look at the information on membership renewal if you haven't seen the letter and especially if you haven't yet renewed your TRF membership. We are continuing our efforts to attract new members and have introduced two recruitment initiatives. Do you have transportation colleagues who are not members of TRF? Why not visit www.trforum.org and ask TRF to send them free copies of the latest issue of the Journal of the Transportation Research Forum and other promotional materials? Do you know any transportation students who could benefit from a TRF membership? Visit www.trforum.org and nominate them for free one-year TRF memberships.

TRF is preparing for its 47th Annual Forum. We hope to have the draft program out after the first of the year. TRF members who are planning to attend the meeting should check out the information about lodging and make arrangements as soon as possible. We're also hoping to secure more sponsors for this year's forum. Sponsorships can really make the difference between a good meeting and a great meeting. Please consider providing us with contact information for potential sponsors or asking us to send you our sponsorship solicitation materials so you can approach the sponsor yourself. There are a variety of ways individuals, firms, and organizations can help TRF offer an excellent Annual Forum next March in New York City.

Our local chapters are as active as ever. I encourage you to take a look at what TRF members are doing in their local chapters in Washington, Chicago, and New York. If a TRF local chapter sounds like something you might want to develop in your area, please contact us to discuss how the national organization can help.

I hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday season.

Best Regards,

Scott E. Tarry
President