Yes, I have re-constructed a quote that is familiar to all of us. This year I have personally witnessed the incredible dedication and creativity of the regions of the California Escrow Association. We are seeing attendance at seminars in larger numbers than in the past. The people working in this industry are seeking the education necessary to perform at a very professional level. The California Escrow Association is driven by the education benefits we offer and this year is an example of how necessary the association has become to each and every one of the settlement service providers in this great state. Escrow practitioners regulated by the Department of Corporations, Department of Insurance, Department of Real Estate and Lending Institutions have attended the classes offered.

The regions have done an excellent job preparing the membership for the CEA Annual Education Conference to be held this October at the beautiful Fairmont Hotel in San Jose from October 2, 2003 (if you are a golfer) through October 5, 2003, at which time you will carry home with you valuable educational tools.

Legislatively speaking, we have been successful on two fronts so far, and we are mindful of the fact that our grassroots efforts will be necessary in the future. Radian Guaranty’s efforts to offer mortgage lien protection in lieu of a title policy, and the title industry’s response is a current topic and will be ongoing. Please be sure you keep informed by visiting our website and reading the legislative update in this Newsletter. Recently, Mike Belote, our legislative advocate, has informed us that our input on the California Firpta legislation has been positively received and he will keep working on this issue in order to assure Escrow Officers that we will not become burdened with liability in connection with this withholding requirement.

At the national level, the American Escrow Association presented their many accomplishments over the past year to the lucky group of delegates attending the annual business meeting and educational conference in Alaska. We were addressed by a member of the HUD administration and our issues with the Guaranteed Mortgage Pricing were presented. The revisions of RESPA regulations are coming and you need to be well informed so that you can act accordingly. Membership in this association will be very valuable to you in this regard.

Please share with the escrow practitioners you come in contact with, the benefits of membership. Please remember our membership motto, “Each One - Reach One.”

I look forward to seeing you at conference. You will experience the “Masterpiece” that is your California Escrow Association.

Sincerely,