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One of my drivers insists that you cannot drive a truck looking in the rear view mirror. This is the same person who suggested that we add a few more mirrors to the front fenders. Of course, he also requested that we attach some fog lights to the front bumpers; place a special sign on trailer doors for folks who want to pass him; and provide a robust horn for - well whatever horns are for. The mirrors, the lamps, the sign, and the horn are not tools for looking backwards as he drives down the road. They are not there for him to see where he has been; although they can aid in the process when necessary. They are tools for looking out, part of an arsenal developed to maintain an awareness of the calamity that others can inflict upon him and the products he delivers. In the final analysis, to survive in business today, we are all drivers. We have to look forward, stay focused, monitor the past and hope some half-wit doesn't try to pass us on our blind side. Sometimes we need to use the horn! The capricious cost of fuel, the uncertainty of equipment capacity, the perennial driver shortages, and unpredictable weather are just a few of the issues that FSA members and our service providers are dealing with daily. These hot button issues and more will be the focus of the 2007 conference. That's why this year's theme for The Food Shippers of America Conference is IT COULD HAPPEN TOMORROW (OR NOT).And indeed, there are changes coming to the conference structure as well. For the speed readers among you - Note the highlights Mark you calendars - (or save this entire document to an Outlook Calendar) MARCH 4 - 6, 2007 http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1008 ******* While the Program Planning Committee is finalizing the agenda, we can share some of the subjects and panels that have been confirmed. "We Have A Situation Here"Although many of you may be hoping to get away from the intensity of the daily activity at your company; we will kick off with an interactive session that will put you in the thick a potential disaster. Gordon Meriwether of the Uriah Group will present a table top exercise with a LOGISTICS focus on crisis management and business continuity. Seating is pre-assigned for the first day sessions - this will also be an excellent chance to meet participants from any of the 300+ companies that regularly attend the conference. Disaster Preparedness: A distinguished panel looks at the private sector and government and how they are preparing for the next big event by examining how past events were handled and the lessons to learn in the future. Quality Workplace & Personnel Development: Recruiting, Hiring and Retaining a skilled workforce. A real concern based on what we have heard from both member and non member companies – expect some surprising thoughts from this panel. Fuel Cost & Forward Planning: Latest on what is happening and what to plan for on cost – options – and alternatives. Collaboration & Best Practices: An update from our members and suppliers on the trends and what works – and maybe more importantly, what has not worked so well, as examined by panelists who will share their experiences with the group. As Always: The Washington Update from Bob Costello with his always significant views on the nations economy as viewed from his transportation perspective. More information on speakers and topics will be coming in the next month's email. Networking and Program Changes: (READ THIS)
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