On Behalf of SIOR leadership and staff, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all SIOR members and their families a safe and joyous holiday season, and of course, a prosperous New Year.

I have an opportunity to visit and meet many of you at chapter meetings and other industry functions, including our own recent Fall World Conference in Los Angeles, and I've found that SIOR members are reporting an increase in activity and transactions across the board as the economy continues its recovery.

More importantly, 2012 was a turbulent year that saw a contentious presidential election, a natural disaster catastrophic in nature and scale, and despite a renewed growth in the market, we find a looming obstacle in the "fiscal cliff." However, throughout all of this, I am reminded of the true quality of SIORs, not just as practitioners, but as world-class citizens.

I've never been more proud of earning my SIOR designation and being held in such esteemed company.

With that said, I hope everyone has an opportunity to spend quality time with their families and friends this holiday season. After all, it's the relationships that end up meaning the most.

Remember, SIOR wishes you a Happy and Prosperous New Year, and all SIOR leadership and staff are here to help you succeed. Reach out to us.

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