I want to share with you, at the end of the first quarter of 2003, an updateon the “State of the Association.” During this time of extreme pressures in our industry, I sincerely appreciate your continued support of our association with your efforts and enthusiasm.

I enjoyed meeting with several local Associations and found each group striving for excellence in the pursuit of escrow education and professionalism. I hope to be able to travel the state and communicate to each region that the struggles we face are universal in the industry, and by membership in our organization, we can minimize the difficulties and work together to accomplish solutions that work for our allied industries and us.

We have a challenge this year with our legislators looking for a solution to the Cal-Firpta Regulations. There is a proposed revision (AB 1338 [Chavez]) that, if passed, provides that the real estate escrow person and the transferee would be jointly and severally liable for the withholding required by state law. Our chance to fight back with a “Grass Roots” effort to defeat those who wish to make us responsible for penalties associated with filings will be enhanced by an increased membership. The “Each-One Reach-One” slogan for this year could not be more critical.

As I have previously mentioned, our Charity for this year is “Feed the Children” and I am very thankful for everyone’s generosity. Please let me thank you all for digging into your hearts and pockets to support this cause. As a reminder, friends and family of CEA members are also invited to contribute on behalf of CEA. I am encouraged that we will be able to reach our goal of $5,400.00, which allows CEA to sponsor a truckload of food for hungry children in California and be involved in its distribution. I am sure it will be a very gratifying experience for us.

Our conference in San Jose promises to offer something current and useful for everyone. From senior officers, management and entry level personnel. Our Saturday evening event will give you a chance to relax and network with escrow professionals from all corners of our great state.Please access the website and provide your input as to any useful additions that the association may need to consider. The future of the association belongs to you. You can make a difference.Paint with the colors you are given - our lives are permeated with the colors of “RED, WHITE and BLUE” at this time. To all of those who have family members and friends in the military, our support, thoughts and prayers are with you.