President’s Report on TLC’s  50^th Annual Conference

By Jeffrey L. Meyer

I have so much to say about our conference in Charleston. To begin with, what an historic event for our Transportation & Logistics Council (“TLC”) to be able to host our 50^th conference and see it continue to evolve and put out a quality, high value product! We packed a lot into our 2.5-3.5 days between our Spring Seminars & Certified Claims Professional (“CCP”) Primer Class on Sunday, and the conference following.

Thanks to the members, new attendees, panelists, exhibitors, sponsors, and board members for making the investment with us. Initial feedback is that it was a great success.  This result was no accident, as there were many who put in a lot of demanding work, for which I am humbled. These comments were about the “content” of the conference, but we all know that just as important as the content is the networking which was in also full swing in the hospitality suite, exhibits and receptions.  I continue to make valuable connections at each of our conferences.

This year we had an improved registration process, realigned the program to minimize competing topics for the workshops, and had a great lineup of speakers, panelists, and moderators. We had enlightening luncheon speakers for both days. Barbara Melvin, President & CEO, South Carolina Ports led off on Monday and I can tell you, we felt her energy and it was exciting to learn the vision, collaboration, and strength that South Carolina has going on for itself. In retrospect after getting her insight to what it takes for a port to function, we all have additional gulp in our throat for the enormous challenge that the Port of Baltimore is now facing. On Tuesday Robert (Bob) Zimmerman, President R&L Carriers, Inc. shared with us the humble begins of R&L to its current day rapid growth in the less-than-truckload (“LTL”) sector. I also found Bob’s perspective of the current state of LTL very much needed as this mode of transportation has seen the biggest changes of any of the modes in the last 12 months.

The President’s Reception was a spot-on great evening.  It was great to see George Pezold receive the recognition of being the key driver of the TLC for all these years. Many kind words were said on George’s behalf by Gerry Smith and Ray Selvaggio. The decorations, entertainment, networking, and dinner exceeded expectations.

The conference wrapped up Wednesday with sessions on Food & Produce Claims and Freight claims Q&A. We had great participation. Thanks to all that contributed gifts as we had an abundance of nice door prizes to hand out. Freightclaims.com generously donated the Grand Prize Apple Watch. I am excited for the 51^st Annual Conference that will be in Houston, TX on March 17-19^th, 2025 at the Hilton Post Oak by the Galleria. The Board of Directors has already discussed ideas on enhanced content and organization to make 2025’s conference even better.