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CONECTivity Coalition of New England Companies for Trade

• Member Benefits • Scholarship Info • An Interview with Our Man In DC • Event Photos www.CONECT.org CONECT: Continued Growth for a Strong Future We’re in this The Secrets of Our Staying Power By Carol Turner Over the next decade and beyond, for our young professionals to continue the Welcome to CONECTivity magazine, a CONECT will continue to grow, and its CONECT tradition of learning, network- TOGETHER CONECT Young Professionals (CYPs) ing, developing business, and advocating for celebration of the Coalition of New En- For 60 years, Yusen Logistics has provided unsurpassed gland Companies for Trade’s accomplish- will fill its board seats. Let’s continue to free and fair trade practices. work together to make our organization the service to our customers. We offer a portfolio of ments since its founding more than two Carol Turner is the Executive Director of best it can possibly be in the future: a place decades ago. What you’ll find inside is a CONECT. ([email protected]) transportation, warehouse and supply chain solutions look at CONECT’s current members as designed to meet our customer’s needs. Leverage our well as its board of directors, legal coun- expertise to optimize your distribution processes today. sel, and office staff. You’ll also learn about CONECT Membership Breakdown CONECT’s updated member benefits and Rest assured we’ll be with you all the way. the opportunities this nonprofit trade asso- Port Authorities/Terminal Partners ciation offers members in terms of industry Ocean Carriers/NVOs/Agents Warehouses education, networking, business building, Logistics Attorneys and career growth. Providers/ Government Offices 3PLs Consultants Twenty-odd years ago, when I attended my Special Products/ first CONECT meeting, I was also involved Insurance Services Think Together. Move Together. Success Together. in a number of other international trade Providers groups across New England. Most of them www.yusen-logistics.com | 800.414.3895 are no longer in existence. Yet CONECT is stronger than ever, and its membership Freight Forwarders/ continues to grow. Customs Brokers What has given CONECT its staying power? In my opinion, there are seven key elements: • A loyal group of over 1,000 CONECT members who continue their support Rail/Truck/Chassis year after year Shippers Associations • A dedicated board of directors, some of BCOs: whom have served for 25 years Importers/Exporters • A legal counsel/trade advocate who is the ultimate “Washington insider,” providing members with valuable insights into what’s going on in government • Alliances with government and regulato- CONECT Mission Statement ry agencies to keep CONECT members abreast of important changes, new CONECT’s mission is to educate the New England business community, programs, and regulations as well as local, state, and federal government representatives as to the • A cadre of committed partners and spon- benefits and importance of free and fair trade to our region. sors, whose continued support helps to CONECT serves the interests of New England businesses that depend defray costs and make CONECT events on international trade. In today’s complex and challenging global affordable for members to attend trade environment, CONECT provides educational and networking • Great relationships with key media opportunities to keep its members well informed. CONECT also sources who act as advisors and market- serves as a unified and highly effective voice to enhance the trade and ing specialists transportation infrastructure of New England. CONECT is comprised • Staffers who truly enjoy what they of importers, exporters, customs brokers, freight forwarders, port do, who treat CONECT members as authorities, NVOCCs, intermodal carriers, logistics providers, banks, law respected friends, and who produce firms, cargo facilities, consultants, and others active in international trade. exceptional events

www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 1 CONECT: Continued Growth for a Strong Future We’re in this The Secrets of Our Staying Power By Carol Turner Over the next decade and beyond, for our young professionals to continue the Welcome to CONECTivity magazine, a CONECT will continue to grow, and its CONECT tradition of learning, network- TOGETHER CONECT Young Professionals (CYPs) ing, developing business, and advocating for celebration of the Coalition of New En- For 60 years, Yusen Logistics has provided unsurpassed gland Companies for Trade’s accomplish- will fill its board seats. Let’s continue to free and fair trade practices. work together to make our organization the service to our customers. We offer a portfolio of ments since its founding more than two Carol Turner is the Executive Director of best it can possibly be in the future: a place decades ago. What you’ll find inside is a CONECT. ([email protected]) transportation, warehouse and supply chain solutions look at CONECT’s current members as designed to meet our customer’s needs. Leverage our well as its board of directors, legal coun- expertise to optimize your distribution processes today. sel, and office staff. You’ll also learn about CONECT Membership Breakdown CONECT’s updated member benefits and Rest assured we’ll be with you all the way. the opportunities this nonprofit trade asso- Port Authorities/Terminal Partners ciation offers members in terms of industry Ocean Carriers/NVOs/Agents Warehouses education, networking, business building, Logistics Attorneys and career growth. Providers/ Government Offices 3PLs Consultants Twenty-odd years ago, when I attended my Special Products/ first CONECT meeting, I was also involved Insurance Services Think Together. Move Together. Success Together. in a number of other international trade Providers groups across New England. Most of them www.yusen-logistics.com | 800.414.3895 are no longer in existence. Yet CONECT is stronger than ever, and its membership Freight Forwarders/ continues to grow. Customs Brokers What has given CONECT its staying power? In my opinion, there are seven key elements: • A loyal group of over 1,000 CONECT members who continue their support Rail/Truck/Chassis year after year Shippers Associations • A dedicated board of directors, some of BCOs: whom have served for 25 years Importers/Exporters • A legal counsel/trade advocate who is the ultimate “Washington insider,” providing members with valuable insights into what’s going on in government • Alliances with government and regulato- CONECT Mission Statement ry agencies to keep CONECT members abreast of important changes, new CONECT’s mission is to educate the New England business community, programs, and regulations as well as local, state, and federal government representatives as to the • A cadre of committed partners and spon- benefits and importance of free and fair trade to our region. sors, whose continued support helps to CONECT serves the interests of New England businesses that depend defray costs and make CONECT events on international trade. In today’s complex and challenging global affordable for members to attend trade environment, CONECT provides educational and networking • Great relationships with key media opportunities to keep its members well informed. CONECT also sources who act as advisors and market- serves as a unified and highly effective voice to enhance the trade and ing specialists transportation infrastructure of New England. CONECT is comprised • Staffers who truly enjoy what they of importers, exporters, customs brokers, freight forwarders, port do, who treat CONECT members as authorities, NVOCCs, intermodal carriers, logistics providers, banks, law respected friends, and who produce firms, cargo facilities, consultants, and others active in international trade. exceptional events

www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 1 CONECT’s Benefits are Second to None

By Karen Kenney Back in 1991, few of us who attended that first meeting with Peter from around the U.S.; and even learned about free trade agreements Friedmann in Reebok’s conference room would have guessed that directly from a U.S. trade representative. I’ve met future customers we were founding what would one day become the largest interna- and vendors and have made lifelong friends. I’ve saved my company tional trade and transportation association in New England. Today money and helped our organization secure new business. Because CONECT, the Coalition of New England Companies for Trade, is of the friends and mentors I’ve come to know through CONECT, recognized as an industry leader in free and fair trade advocacy and I had the privilege of serving on the Commercial Customs Opera- education. tions Advisory Committee, known as the COAC, alongside two of the customs commissioners I met in the early days of CONECT, an CONECT offers unparalleled access to industry leaders, learning honor I’ll never forget. and networking opportunities, and the chance to influence policy locally, regionally, and nationally. At CONECT, we get things done. If you are interested in networking, meeting industry leaders, learn- From securing U.S. Fish & Wildlife status for the Port of Boston to ing something new, growing professionally, influencing policy, ex- advocating for local and national policies that benefit our members, panding your horizons, and getting things done, then this is where we make things happen. you should be. Become a CONECT member. Come to a CONECT event. It’s a smart bet. Throughout my membership in CONECT over the years since the group was founded, I’ve personally exchanged ideas with every I am incredibly thankful for the tremendous value CONECT has U.S. Customs commissioner who’s held office since 1991; discussed brought to me both personally and professionally. I hope to meet policy with senior-level Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and you at a future event! Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) officials; shared concerns with Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) commission- Karen Kenney is President of CONECT and V.P. Global Partnerships, ers and chairs; reviewed challenges and solutions with port directors Janel Group Inc./Liberty. CONECT: The Key Connection for Northeast Shippers

The Coalition of New England Companies for Trade, better known in New England, when in fact that scenario had changed over the by the acronym CONECT, is the most important international prior decades. Time is trade association in the Northeast. The footwear bill was stopped and the need for an international The Southborough, MA-based nonprofit is composed of import- trade group was made obvious. Peter Friedmann became counsel for money. ers, exporters, manufacturers, traders, trade associations, customs CONECT and now monitors trade-related issues for the group. He 21 brokers, freight forwarders, NVOCCs, logistics and transportation is instrumental in organizing CONECT’s annual Federal Trade and DAYS providers, financial institutions, law and accounting firms, ware- Transportation Policy Briefing in Washington, which enables mem- Long Beach is the fastest, houses and distribution centers, and port authorities. bers to meet their legislators and discuss trade issues. most direct way to move goods LONG BEACH Incorporated in 1991, CONECT was founded by 10 Massachusetts CONECT’s formula of trade advocacy coupled with networking businesspeople involved in international trade, including its first between the Far East and most of and education has helped it grow to more than 1,200 members, ATLANTA president, Joan Padduck, who was employed by Reebok at the time. representing basically every facet of international trade. A board of the U.S. The Panama Canal takes HONG KONG The catalyst for its creation was the filing of an apparel and footwear directors governs the organization, and a board member who serves quota bill in Congress in 1989. Peter Friedmann, Reebok’s attor- 10 days longer. The Suez: longer as a state chair represents each of the New England states. ney, told senior management that if the bill passed, Reebok’s ability CONECT – with its pro-trade advocacy – has been the voice of New still. All you need to remember: to import footwear would be compromised. He suggested that the England’s shippers since its inception. Many of its importer and ex- company contact Bay State congressmen and inform them that the Port of Long Beach. polb.com/trade porter members are high-profile companies, such as Reebok, L.L. quota would negatively affect many Massachusetts importers. Senior PANAMA CANAL Bean, Staples, Christmas Tree Shops, TJ Maxx, Genzyme, Hasbro, management supported the idea, sending Friedmann and Padduck CVS, Franklin Sports, and International Forest Products. However, to Washington. others represented include smaller shippers in need of expert knowl- In D.C., Friedmann and Padduck found that the New England con- edge and a forum for discussing trade issues. And although it is gressmen were shocked to hear from constituents who were in favor associated with New England, over 25 percent of the membership is 31 of imports. They said that they typically heard from the other side of from outside the six-state region, a testament to the importance of DAYS the fence: the labor unions lobbying to impose quotas. It was evident CONECT’s voice in Washington. www.POLB.com to the Reebok representatives that this was not just a quota issue – it was a trade policy issue. There was a widespread misunderstanding Excerpted and adapted by permission from the American Journal of by congressmen who believed that manufacturing was still strong Transportation. 2 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 3 CONECT’s Benefits are Second to None

CONECT’s Board of Directors with CBP Commissioner Kerlikowske

Front (L to R): Linda Wood, Bennett & Company; Christa Hurley, H.C. Starck; Susan Albatal, Staples; Paula Connelly, The Law Offices of Paula M. Connelly Middle Row (L to R): Andy Rosener, Christmas Tree Shops; Karen Kenney, Janel Group Inc./Liberty; Bette Little, adidas-Group; Deb Koppenaal, Koch Membrane; Jim Mitchell, OOCL (USA) Inc. Back Row (L to R): Jack Bender, A.N. Deringer; Alison Leavitt, WSSA; Commissioner R. Gil Kerlikowske, USCBP; Joe O’Connor, Franklin Sports; Kevin Laffey, Port of Boston; Luiz da Costa, OvaScience Not Pictured: Andy Abraham, Meeks & Sheppard; Rob Shepard, International Forest Products; Bob Leadbetter, OUTSOURCE Inc.

“CONECT has become a key educational and networking resource for me, bringing together industry experts at events to discuss a wide variety of international trade topics. CONECT members can participate and provide feedback on issues affecting us. In the ever-changing world of international trade it has become extremely helpful to be part of this group.” Julie Doane, Autopart International, Inc.

“We want to make sure great American companies such as those in New England have access to 95% of the world’s population… Thank you for everything CONECT is doing on this front.” CONECT Staff Myron Brilliant, U.S. Chamber of Commerce (L to R) Karen Pim, Membership Services Manager; Carol Turner, Executive Director; Stefanie Jessiman, Business Manager www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 4 www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 5 This ad does not havea bleed

CONECT’s Board of Directors with CBP Commissioner Kerlikowske

As a CONECT member you’ll get all this and more: Membership Types • Discounted registration for all CONECT events CONECT offers two types of memberships: • Numerous annual educational, policy-focused, and networking • Individual – One employee only from a company, non- conferences, seminars, and meetings, including “members only” transferable events (see “CONECT Annual Events”) • Corporate – Unlimited number of employees from a company • CONECTivity newsletters with unique, members-only content • Important notices from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other regulatory agencies • Breaking news on critical trade and transportation issues • Active representation on Capitol Hill and regular updates from Peter Friedmann, “Our Man in D.C.” Go to www.CONECT.org | 508-481-0424 • “Ask the Attorney,” a newsletter column where trade attorneys answer your legal questions • “Members only page” privileges on the CONECT website What Can CONECT Offer You? • Opportunities to earn CCS points from the NCBFAA, coordinated by CONECT staff Crucial Industry Knowledge – Timely educational seminars and • Access to CONECT’s job board to post résumés or positions conferences on critical trade and transportation topics • CONECT Young Professionals (CYP) program to allow junior Breaking News – CONECTivity e-newsletters with members- members of your organization to learn at discounted prices only content, industry news, legal advice, and advance notice of • Access to sponsor candidates for CONECT’s annual Chafee upcoming events Memorial Scholarship Program Influence – Advocacy on your behalf with policymakers and • Opportunity to serve on CONECT committees: Programs, regulators in Washington, D.C. Scholarship, Sponsorship, CYP, Membership, and more • Invitation to apply for a CONECT board of directors seat Connections – Networking opportunities to share best practices when available with peers • Special offers from CONECT members and partners Development – Professional development through NCBFAA (discounted subscriptions, free trials, retail sales, etc.) continuing education and for CONECT Young Professionals CONECT Annual Events

CONECT offers a wide range of educational, networking, and policy-focused events throughout the year. These programs are always well attended, and feedback from attendees confirms their value and importance to CONECT members and their companies. • Northeast Trade & Transportation Conference – • Washington D.C. Federal Trade Policy Briefing – two-plus days of programs featuring high-level one and a half days of meetings with members of speakers on critical trade and transportation industry Congress, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), topics, held each spring, often in Newport, R.I. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), and White House and U.S. Trade Representative staff on Capitol Hill • Northeast Cargo Symposium – full-day conference on hot topics, held each fall • Local Congressional Roundtables with New England’s U.S. senators and congressional • Product Classification Seminars – multiple representatives commodities offered throughout the year, with participation by appropriate government agencies • Webinars on critical industry topics • Seaport, Airport, and Inland Cargo Facilities Tours – • Other networking and educational opportunities offered multiple times per year as requested by members

6 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 7 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade CONECT Member Benefits

6 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 7 Northeast Trade & Transportation Conference

CONECT produced its first Northeast Trade & Transportation Conference (popularly known as “T&T”) in 1996, and has continued to do so every year since. The T&T conference is CONECT’s biggest endeavor each year, bringing members and friends together to learn from industry experts and peers, to express their concerns and opinions, and to meet suppliers and partners. This multiday conference is held in the spring, often in Newport, R.I. Programs include daily keynote addresses, panel discussions on industry “hot topics,” an “Off the Record” forum (with no government or media representation allowed), CONECT Young Professional (CYP) presentations, Chafee Scholarship awards, sponsor awards, and an offsite dinner at a Newport landmark, such as the Astors’ Beechwood, Rosecliff, and Oceancliff mansions.

“Rhode Island companies should flock to take part in the (T&T) conference. This is an opportunity in our own backyard to attend what is one of the premier supply chain forums of the year. It’s packed with a “Who’s Who” of the international logistics and supply chain field. There’s a lot to be learned. You’re getting really useful information from people who are facing the same challenges you are, learning some of the things they’ve done to drive efficiencies, and hopefully coming away with some best practices you can put in place back at your job.” Steve Silva, Care New England

Mario Cordero, Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission

“I did find your conference very valuable and the opportunity to have open discussions with colleagues of other ports authorities was indeed much appreciated. Believe me, I am not one of these ‘happy campers’ who is always positive about any event they go to. Sincere thanks for the quality of your event.” Guillaume Lamothe, Port of Montreal

“Thanks for a great conference and your support of and use of our supply chain degree students. It was a great experience. Doug Hales, URI

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Mario Cordero, Chairman, Federal Maritime Commission

“Thanks for a great conference and your support of and use of our supply chain degree students. It was a great experience. Doug Hales, URI www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 8 www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 9

Untitled-1 1 10/19/2016 9:06:52 AM Senator John Chafee Scholarship Program

By Bob Leadbetter Avalon congratulates CONECT The Senator John Chafee Memorial Scholarship Program was inaugurated in 2000. Since the program’s inception, more than $100,000 has been awarded to undergraduate and graduate students to help defray the onerous cost of a college education. John Chafee left a legacy of service and commitment to both state and country. He served as state representative, governor, and U.S. senator from the state of Rhode Island, as well as secretary of the Navy and in the U.S. Marine Corps during both World War II and the Korean War. Senator Chafee was a great friend to CONECT during its formative years. It was a natural decision to name CONECT’s scholarship program after him, and it is an honor for scholarship recipients to be associated with Senator Chafee, even in this small way. CONECT offers two scholarships dedicated to trade- and transportation-related studies as well as other awards that are open to students in any major. The program requires students to be entering their second year of an undergraduate program or higher. Students must be sponsored by a CONECT mem- Bob Leadbetter with Chafee Scholarship Recipients ber, and they must write an essay explaining to the scholarship committee why they should be considered for an award. There currently are four legacy scholarships: the Donald F. Cam- eron Scholarship, bestowed upon a deserving student in a trade- or logistics-related area of study; the Gemini Shippers Association Scholarship, which is geared toward business-related majors; and the Dorea International and Boston Foreign This ad does not havea Commerce Club scholarship awards, which are earmarked for students of exemplary merit in any field of study. bleed All four of the legacy scholarships are funded by dedicated people within our industry who want to “give back” to our community. Our thanks go to the Camerons, the family of the late industry “captain” Don Cameron; the senior management of Gemini Shippers Association; the managing partners of the international trade consulting firm Dorea International; and the dedicated leadership of the Boston Foreign Com- Avalon Risk Management provides CONECT members with the best merce Club. tailored coverage for your operations and the most cutting-edge General scholarships are provided through funds raised from CONECT and the Senator John Chafee Memorial the CONECT membership via raffles and donations. The Scholarship Fund wish to thank the following legacy technology in the industry. number of scholarship awards we have made to date is a tes- donors, whose generous donations enhance CONECT’s tament to our members’ dedication to this worthy cause and is member donations each year. truly an extension of Senator Chafee’s commitment to service. Cargo Insurance • Customs & Transportation Bonds • Errors & Omissions Insurance The Cameron Family – Don Cameron Legacy This work may be carried out on a different stage, but it is Scholarship Cargo Legal Liability Insurance • Property & Casualty Insurance • Truck Insurance nonetheless an admirable commitment to something Senator Gemini Shippers Association – Gemini Legacy Chafee supported and believed in: helping our community’s Scholarship Courier Insurance • Credit Insurance younger generation achieve their dreams of success. Dorea International – Dorea Legacy Scholarship If you would like to establish a legacy award or make an Foreign Commerce Club of Boston – FCC Legacy individual donation, please contact any member of CONECT’s Scholarship board of directors or staff. Visit www.avalonrisk.com for more information. Your giving spirit helps deserving students move toward Bob Leadbetter is Vice President, Business Development at a better future! OUTSOURCE, Inc., CONECT Director, and Chairman of the Chafee Scholarship Committee.

www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 10 www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 11 Senator John Chafee Scholarship Program

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CONECT celebrated its 25 years of commitment to the New England trade community on April 13, 2016, at a soiree in Newport, R.I.’s historic Rosecliff. Nearly 250 CONECT members and friends enjoyed the opulence of the famed Gilded Age mansion. A reception on the terrace overlooking the Atlantic and Newport’s famous Cliff Walk featured cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, networking, and live music. Later, dinner in the gorgeous Rosecliff dining salon was followed by an extraordinary dessert display and a lively after-hours piano recital.

12 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 13 ROSECLIFF, NEWPORT, RI gland Co En mp w an e ie N s f o f Celebrating o n r o T i r t i a

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e o 25TH ANNIVERSARYC 25 CELEBRATION Years CONECT

12 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 13 It’s Your Money! The man to see in D.C. Since 1988 New England An Interview with Peter Friedmann Do you qualify for Drawback Specialists, Inc.

DUTY DRAWBACK? We become the vehicle to communicate their interests to members By Toby Gooley of Congress. We organize visits You qualify for a DUTY DRAWBACK program if: It’s no surprise that Peter A. Friedmann’s e-mail address is like the annual CONECT Trade Briefing in Washington, and we • You import goods and later export them in the same condition “OurManInDC.” That handily sums up the role he plays on behalf of industry associations, individual companies, and local government help them draft their comments • Your Bill of Material includes some imported components agencies that depend on transportation and international trade. and position papers to make sure to manufacture products which are later exported. they’re heard. We provide advice Friedmann, who holds a law degree from the University of on developments we believe are RETROACTIVE THREE YEARS = substantial refunds available Washington, is well-known in transportation and trade circles as coming long before they hit the someone who understands both private industry and government – pages of the press. So we provide a and is adept at getting the two to communicate with each other. Bob Kenneally, President 617-347-0188 crystal ball and a continual “heads Even before he finished law school, Friedmann knew he wanted to up” alert. Since 1988 get involved in policy rather than work in a traditional law practice. That’s exactly what he did, signing on as Legislative Counsel to U.S. Q Why is it important for Senator Bob Packwood of Oregon in 1979 and serving as senior companies engaged in in- New England counsel to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & ternational trade to know what’s Drawback Specialists, Inc. Transportation from 1980 to 1986. While working with the Senate, happening in Washington? he helped to write and implement such influential laws as the Ocean So many issues that the federal government deals with can Shipping Act of 1984, several Foreign Trade Zone amendments, and A have a direct impact on the livelihoods of individuals and the legislation for the Harbor Maintenance Fee and Trust Fund. businesses for which they work. It’s often hard to keep track of what Friedmann now heads FBB Federal Relations, the government- Congress and the executive branch are doing and when agencies relations arm of the Portland, Ore.-based law firm Lindsay Hart like Customs and Border Protection (CBP) promulgate new rules. LLP. In that capacity, he represents the interests of individual Some rules are obscure, while others find their way onto the front companies, local governments, port authorities, and transportation- page of The Wall Street Journal or The New York Times. and trade-focused associations like the Coalition of New England How Congress and the executive branch act on those issues directly Companies for Trade (CONECT). affects many companies. They want to know about potential threats to their businesses as early as possible. For example, if Congress or the International Trade Commission imposed retaliatory and puni- tive duties on certain products from China, it could put an importer out of business. The sooner that importer knows what’s being con- Which organizations do you represent, and what responsi- sidered, the sooner it can plan for that possibility, such as adjusting Q bilities do you carry out on their behalf? sourcing. It can also get engaged by trying to impact, through lobbying, the decisions that Congress and federal agencies make. We represent many exporters and importers, both as indi- A vidual companies and as members of some of the coalitions Why is international trade such a contentious subject? we’ve created. One of them is CONECT. Nothing has been more Q central to my belief in the power of grass-roots organizations to advance national interests, and nothing has provided greater per- A The complexity of all trade policy issues lies in the fact that sonal satisfaction than the establishment of CONECT. Another is there are winners and losers every time. There is no clear the Agriculture Transportation Coalition, which is very active in black and white; there are lots of grays. For example, a persistent the ocean shipping arena, particularly promoting U.S. exports. Then political issue in Congressional trade debates is China’s so-called there are other association clients that are quite active in interna- currency manipulation. It may sound like a good idea to increase tional trade, such as the Pacific Coast Council of Customs Brokers the value of the Chinese yuan – a lower dollar would create more and Freight Forwarders and the Pacific Northwest Asia Shippers opportunities for our exports to China and other countries as our Association. We also represent Indian tribes. And we help port au- products become more affordable relative to the Chinese products. thorities, transit agencies, state and local governments, and Indian But many U.S.-manufactured goods include Chinese-made com- tribes get funding for infrastructure, ranging from wastewater plants ponents. If those components become more expensive, so will the to ferry boats and roads. finished U.S.-assembled products. If our consumers can’t afford to 14 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 15

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C M Y K pay for higher-cost goods sourced Washington D.C. entirely or in part in China, then declining sales will lead to job loss- Federal Trade Policy es in the retail and logistics supply chain serving those imports. That’s the two-edged sword of trade issues. Briefing

Even a question like whether the CONECT’s annual Federal Trade Policy Briefing gives members Generalized System of Preferences access to some of the most influential D.C. insiders, both on and should be renewed [has two sides]. off Capitol Hill. The program (open to CONECT members If it isn’t renewed, it will create only) begins on a Tuesday with a working lunch briefing featuring great dislocation for anyone who meetings with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal imports things like baskets from Maritime Commission, and leaders of major manufacturing, retail, Indonesia or ceramics from Gua- and importers’ trade associations. Dinner that night with a senior temala. It could impact a lot of government official is always a special event. On Wednesday, things we take for granted, like the the group begins a busy day with a motivational breakfast at the coffee mug you’re holding. If that Capitol Hill Club with the Chief Trade Counsel for the U.S. mug comes under GSP and GSP House of Representatives. We then proceed to Capitol Hill to is not renewed, would it then be take our messages directly to the New England congressional manufactured here in the United delegation. There we split into small groups, visiting delegates States, or would it just become more and their staffers in their offices to convey CONECT’s pro-trade expensive to import? message. A wrap-up session in a well-known Washington, D.C., The point is, while it may be apparent to Peter at the helm of one of his very popular “Off the Record” Sessions at CONECT’s “T&T” Conference. watering hole gives group members a chance to swap stories of some of us that more trade is good for You have many notable achievements on your résumé. Can their day before heading to the airport. the economy, efforts to promote trade will be opposed by many en- Q you point to one you’re particularly proud of? trenched labor interests and some domestic manufacturers. This is driving the contentious debate over the TransPacific Partnership; Playing a role in the establishment of CONECT, which it’s what makes this legislative stew we keep stirring so interesting. A continues to be the leading pro-trade organization in New England, has been particularly noteworthy. More specifically, em- A number of countries (including the United States) and ploying creative means to help small business achieve meaningful Q at least one intergovernmental body – the World Customs policy victories, at times over the opposition of much larger and Organization (WCO) – have developed their own cargo security better-funded interest groups, really makes me happy. programs. Will these security regimes eventually be harmonized? For example, we did an event for a U.S. senator, a very powerful We are already getting close to harmonized security stan- chair of an important committee. We organized a group of his con- A dards. For example, following 9/11 CBP promulgated the stituents, all small businesses. Some employed only two or three “24-hour rule,” under which cargo manifest information has to be people; the largest employed maybe 50. These folks were import- submitted to U.S. Customs 24 hours prior to the loading of the in- ers and customs brokers concerned about possible retaliatory duties “This mission was truly an outstanding use of two days in bound vessel at the foreign port. The European Union, China, Ko- against certain imports from Vietnam and China that were being Washington, D.C. The organization of events was perfect: rea, Canada, and others have implemented their own 24-hour rules. pursued by powerful anti-trade interests. How could they get across first starting us off with readable and focused background These are key elements of the effort at the WCO to create a single the message that this would hurt their businesses? briefing papers, followed by an internal roundtable to make database so that export data submitted by an exporter becomes the We held a meeting on the floor of a warehouse in the senator’s home sure the concerns of each of us in the CONECT group would import data for the customs agency overseas. state. We put picnic tables out on the floor, with equipment working be addressed. Then to some outstanding presentations by government officials and insiders regarding what we should “This trip is very well done! It’s the easiest way to get and give The real issue with all these security measures, in my view, is wheth- and people doing their jobs, forklift drivers whizzing around, and expect next year. The open forum allowed a free flow of Q&A, essential information, and stay current on trade issues that are er we’re creating an industry devoted to providing security with- the noise of container doors opening up. The senator saw how many frequently with candor one would never see in the press. And important to you and your company. This trip will help you people, including Teamsters and other blue-collar workers, were out continuous and vigorous assessment of the impact of those then to talk with key staff for New England congressmen and understand how important your voice is, and how one person employed in this import business, and it gave him a better perspec- security measures on commerce and on our lives generally. Every senators (and sometimes the legislators themselves!) was truly can make a difference. Once you go for the first time you will time we undertake a new security measure, not only are we add- tive on the needs of small business and the benefits of trade – which a golden opportunity. I cannot say enough about this year’s D.C. be wondering why the heck you hadn’t signed up before now.” ing a dollar cost but we’re also adding costs through additional was much more effective than a visit from suit-wearing Washington Mission. You’ve set the bar very high for yourselves.” Christa Hurley, H.C. Starck delays and reduced efficiency of trade processes. These costs become lobbyists bearing campaign contributions. Geoff Giovanetti, Vernon Group, Reston, VA in themselves barriers to international trade. For example, CBP’s That’s what I really like to do: help small businesses cut through the “Thank you so much, Peter and team, for making our visit down to Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program noise of the federal bureaucracy and fundraisers. There’s a little bit D.C. so great. When we get back to “the trenches” after our D.C. has been the subject of debate and Congressional inquiry as to its of a sense of David taking on Goliath – even though when interests “My thanks to Peter and his team for organizing such a great trip, our jobs are so much richer and more interesting after having program. The takeaways from the meetings will certainly benefit cost/benefit for security and trade. do align, we are very glad to work with Goliath. been up on the Hill where so much is decided (or not decided), me in my day-to-day activities, as will meeting with those on the and having met so many of the key folks who generously share You’ve heard of the military-industrial complex? I fear we are in Hill and getting insights on many issues that are important to their insight and knowledge on important issues.” a “security-industrial complex” now. The need for security must be Toby Gooley is Senior Editor, DC Velocity, and Editor, CSCMP’s Supply Chain Quarterly. us..” balanced against trade facilitation, the capacity of taxpayers to pay Linda Wood, Bennett Imports Deb Koppenaal, Koch Membrane for it, our way of life, and our civil liberties. Adapted and reprinted by permission from DC Velocity. 16 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 17 pay for higher-cost goods sourced Washington D.C. entirely or in part in China, then declining sales will lead to job loss- Federal Trade Policy es in the retail and logistics supply chain serving those imports. That’s the two-edged sword of trade issues. Briefing

Even a question like whether the CONECT’s annual Federal Trade Policy Briefing gives members Generalized System of Preferences access to some of the most influential D.C. insiders, both on and should be renewed [has two sides]. off Capitol Hill. The program (open to CONECT members If it isn’t renewed, it will create only) begins on a Tuesday with a working lunch briefing featuring great dislocation for anyone who meetings with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Federal imports things like baskets from Maritime Commission, and leaders of major manufacturing, retail, Indonesia or ceramics from Gua- and importers’ trade associations. Dinner that night with a senior temala. It could impact a lot of government official is always a special event. On Wednesday, things we take for granted, like the the group begins a busy day with a motivational breakfast at the coffee mug you’re holding. If that Capitol Hill Club with the Chief Trade Counsel for the U.S. mug comes under GSP and GSP House of Representatives. We then proceed to Capitol Hill to is not renewed, would it then be take our messages directly to the New England congressional manufactured here in the United delegation. There we split into small groups, visiting delegates States, or would it just become more and their staffers in their offices to convey CONECT’s pro-trade expensive to import? message. A wrap-up session in a well-known Washington, D.C., The point is, while it may be apparent to Peter at the helm of one of his very popular “Off the Record” Sessions at CONECT’s “T&T” Conference. watering hole gives group members a chance to swap stories of some of us that more trade is good for You have many notable achievements on your résumé. Can their day before heading to the airport. the economy, efforts to promote trade will be opposed by many en- Q you point to one you’re particularly proud of? trenched labor interests and some domestic manufacturers. This is driving the contentious debate over the TransPacific Partnership; Playing a role in the establishment of CONECT, which it’s what makes this legislative stew we keep stirring so interesting. A continues to be the leading pro-trade organization in New England, has been particularly noteworthy. More specifically, em- A number of countries (including the United States) and ploying creative means to help small business achieve meaningful Q at least one intergovernmental body – the World Customs policy victories, at times over the opposition of much larger and Organization (WCO) – have developed their own cargo security better-funded interest groups, really makes me happy. programs. Will these security regimes eventually be harmonized? For example, we did an event for a U.S. senator, a very powerful We are already getting close to harmonized security stan- chair of an important committee. We organized a group of his con- A dards. For example, following 9/11 CBP promulgated the stituents, all small businesses. Some employed only two or three “24-hour rule,” under which cargo manifest information has to be people; the largest employed maybe 50. These folks were import- submitted to U.S. Customs 24 hours prior to the loading of the in- ers and customs brokers concerned about possible retaliatory duties “This mission was truly an outstanding use of two days in bound vessel at the foreign port. The European Union, China, Ko- against certain imports from Vietnam and China that were being Washington, D.C. The organization of events was perfect: rea, Canada, and others have implemented their own 24-hour rules. pursued by powerful anti-trade interests. How could they get across first starting us off with readable and focused background These are key elements of the effort at the WCO to create a single the message that this would hurt their businesses? briefing papers, followed by an internal roundtable to make database so that export data submitted by an exporter becomes the We held a meeting on the floor of a warehouse in the senator’s home sure the concerns of each of us in the CONECT group would import data for the customs agency overseas. state. We put picnic tables out on the floor, with equipment working be addressed. Then to some outstanding presentations by government officials and insiders regarding what we should “This trip is very well done! It’s the easiest way to get and give The real issue with all these security measures, in my view, is wheth- and people doing their jobs, forklift drivers whizzing around, and expect next year. The open forum allowed a free flow of Q&A, essential information, and stay current on trade issues that are er we’re creating an industry devoted to providing security with- the noise of container doors opening up. The senator saw how many frequently with candor one would never see in the press. And important to you and your company. This trip will help you people, including Teamsters and other blue-collar workers, were out continuous and vigorous assessment of the impact of those then to talk with key staff for New England congressmen and understand how important your voice is, and how one person employed in this import business, and it gave him a better perspec- security measures on commerce and on our lives generally. Every senators (and sometimes the legislators themselves!) was truly can make a difference. Once you go for the first time you will time we undertake a new security measure, not only are we add- tive on the needs of small business and the benefits of trade – which a golden opportunity. I cannot say enough about this year’s D.C. be wondering why the heck you hadn’t signed up before now.” ing a dollar cost but we’re also adding costs through additional was much more effective than a visit from suit-wearing Washington Mission. You’ve set the bar very high for yourselves.” Christa Hurley, H.C. Starck delays and reduced efficiency of trade processes. These costs become lobbyists bearing campaign contributions. Geoff Giovanetti, Vernon Group, Reston, VA in themselves barriers to international trade. For example, CBP’s That’s what I really like to do: help small businesses cut through the “Thank you so much, Peter and team, for making our visit down to Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) program noise of the federal bureaucracy and fundraisers. There’s a little bit D.C. so great. When we get back to “the trenches” after our D.C. has been the subject of debate and Congressional inquiry as to its of a sense of David taking on Goliath – even though when interests “My thanks to Peter and his team for organizing such a great trip, our jobs are so much richer and more interesting after having program. The takeaways from the meetings will certainly benefit cost/benefit for security and trade. do align, we are very glad to work with Goliath. been up on the Hill where so much is decided (or not decided), me in my day-to-day activities, as will meeting with those on the and having met so many of the key folks who generously share You’ve heard of the military-industrial complex? I fear we are in Hill and getting insights on many issues that are important to their insight and knowledge on important issues.” a “security-industrial complex” now. The need for security must be Toby Gooley is Senior Editor, DC Velocity, and Editor, CSCMP’s Supply Chain Quarterly. us..” balanced against trade facilitation, the capacity of taxpayers to pay Linda Wood, Bennett Imports Deb Koppenaal, Koch Membrane for it, our way of life, and our civil liberties. Adapted and reprinted by permission from DC Velocity. 16 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 17 CONECT Young Professionals (CYPs) Northeast Cargo Symposium (NECS)

This popular annual fall event is a shortened version of the Northeast Trade & Transportation Conference held in the spring. Over 200 people gather for a full-day symposium to hear from trade and transportation experts on critical industry topics. Panels of industry executives and government specialists focus CONECT’s leaders recognize that our younger members will on specific topics or programs, and a keynote presenter offers a “big picture” eventually become the organization’s leaders. The more they learn view. Plenty of networking gets accomplished at breakfast and an evening now about CONECT and the trade and transportation industry, cocktail reception. NECS also raises donations for the Chafee Scholarship the stronger and more effective the future CONECT organization fund to be awarded to deserving college applicants in the spring. will be. The CONECT Young Professionals (CYP) subgroup was formed in 2012 with a goal of creating varied opportunities for CYPs to learn from each other, and to build a strong and viable network of up-and-coming trade and transportation professionals “These events have always been the best place to get the most up-to-date within CONECT. These opportunities currently include: information regarding imports, exports, transportation, government issues, and Customs programs. These seminars and symposiums are so well run, • A convivial and casual CYP Annual Meeting informational, stress-free, and just a great meeting place… CONECT has been • Industry facility tours a large part of my life for the past 25 years. It has brought me knowledge and • Community volunteer days information that makes me a valuable asset to my employer.” • Outreach at college career programs Cindy Benway, TACO • Special breakout sessions at annual CONECT events • Invitations to speak on “Young Professional Voices,” a “Talking Logistics” video series where young professionals offer their perspectives on supply chain and logistics trends All CONECT members under the age of 34 are eligible and are encouraged to join the CYP group at no extra cost. CYP benefits “Thank you, CONECT! As always, you did a include admission to all CYP events and discounted registrations wonderful job of providing the perfect mix of at most other CONECT events. information and networking. Thank you for all you do for us!” Betty Robson, JF Moran

LOW RES

18 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.conect.orgCONECT .org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 19 CONECT Young Professionals (CYPs) Northeast Cargo Symposium (NECS)

LOW RES

18 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.conect.orgCONECT .org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 19 Seminars and Workshops Classification Seminars Giving Freight a Voice

CONECT’s Product Classification Seminars By Barry Horowitz cover many products, as requested by members. Officials from various government agencies The Coalition of New England acknowledgment of an important issue facing this business in the and customs attorneys share their expertise and Companies for Trade (CONECT) future: the need for a more serious approach to succession plan- instruct attendees on best practices in assessing and is the largest nonprofit, mem- ning across our entire industry. CONECT aims to build a network classifying variations of the products in question. ber-based international trade or- of young professionals of the next generation who will form the CONECT has run seminars for the following ganization in the U.S. Northeast. cadre of industry leaders over the next three to four decades. Its membership includes com- product categories: This extended review of CONECT isn’t intended as a promotional panies and individuals from six vehicle. I’m neither a member nor even a regular participant at • Biotech products • Chemicals states – Massachusetts, Rhode Is- the organization’s events. I just wanted to highlight the excellent • Medical devices • Festive articles land, Connecticut, Vermont, New service CONECT offers to the local and regional internation- Hampshire, and Maine – and across • Footwear • Toys and games al trade community and the effective trade-promotion activities, all industry sectors – importers and • Apparel for exports as well as imports, of this group. If you don’t know exporters; ocean carriers, ports, and CONECT, check them out at www.conect.org. If you have a sim- terminal operators; freight for- ilar group in your area, attend their meetings and get involved. If warders, non-vessel-operating common carriers, customs brokers, “The apparel seminar was very informative, you don’t have access to a similar organization, get together with and distribution centers; banks, attorneys, and consultants; state reinforcing what I did know and also your local industry friends and colleagues and get one started. clearing up the gray areas and adding agencies; industry associations; media organizations, and others. new knowledge that will make my job less CONECT’s broad and deep membership forms the basis for its Freight may not vote, but we can speak with one voice. Make sure confusing.” mission of trade advocacy, continuous education, and networking you’re heard. Donna VanAernam, Swany America Corp. activities. Barry Horowitz is principal of CMS Consulting Services. The fall Cargo Symposium is one of two major annual CONECT events, the other being the Northeast Trade and Transportation Adapted and reprinted by permission from The Journal of Commerce. Conference, held each year in Newport, R.I. Other significant activities include a group mission to Washington, D.C., to meet with, brief, and be briefed by New England federal officials, and various other trade-related meetings. While the old industry adage that “freight doesn’t vote” remains INTRAL true, CONECT doesn’t take this to mean that cargo has no voice. From the organization’s beginning in 1991, it has represented the interests of New England importers and exporters in matters of in- corporation ternational shipping and logistics as well as all issues dealing with Customs and every other regulatory agency that has any impact on companies’ ability to efficiently move their products into or out of SINCE 1987 the United States. It’s a very ambitious agenda and one that isn’t often accomplished in such a sustained and focused manner. The fall symposium provides an excellent example of the INTRAL CORPORATION wide range of subjects of interest to CONECT’s members: the SUPPLY CHAIN OUTSOURCING changing landscape at Customs and the Department of Home- 3PL & 4PL land Security, of which Customs is a part; the movement and se- COMPLIANCE curity of products and people across all of America’s borders; the potential impact of ocean carrier alliances; and other issues that lie ahead of our industry, including waterfront labor uncertainty, INTRAL WORLDWIDE carrier overcapacity and weak demand for space, the ongoing chas- NVOCC sis dilemma, and the continued downward pressure on rates and FREIGHT FORWARDING the effect on carrier financial results. Panels discuss such topics TRANSPORTATION WAREHOUSING as the ongoing hours-of-service rules for the trucking industry; regulations in the airfreight industry; CBP’s agenda for importers, exporters, forwarders, and brokers; and the agency’s Centers of INTRAL GLOBAL TRADE Consumer Product Safety Luncheon ACE Seminar Excellence and Expertise. Peter Friedmann, an international trade SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS attorney, provides an insider’s look at what goes on in the halls of PROCUREMENT Darlene Elmblad, Acushnet Company, Louann Spirito, SGS, and STR’s Mark Tallo gave a practical training seminar on CBP’s the federal government. Diane Weinberg, Meeks & Sheppard covered consumer safety aspects Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) web portal to help of footwear and apparel, along with ACE requirements, CPSC attendees improve efficiency and identify cost savings. The CONECT Young Professionals group was established in 2012 WWW.INTRAL.COM eFiling, and best practices for CPSC compliance. for relative newcomers to our industry (age 33 and younger) as an 20 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 21 Seminars and Workshops Classification Seminars Giving Freight a Voice

CONECT’s Product Classification Seminars By Barry Horowitz cover many products, as requested by members. Officials from various government agencies The Coalition of New England acknowledgment of an important issue facing this business in the and customs attorneys share their expertise and Companies for Trade (CONECT) future: the need for a more serious approach to succession plan- instruct attendees on best practices in assessing and is the largest nonprofit, mem- ning across our entire industry. CONECT aims to build a network classifying variations of the products in question. ber-based international trade or- of young professionals of the next generation who will form the CONECT has run seminars for the following ganization in the U.S. Northeast. cadre of industry leaders over the next three to four decades. Its membership includes com- product categories: This extended review of CONECT isn’t intended as a promotional panies and individuals from six vehicle. I’m neither a member nor even a regular participant at • Biotech products • Chemicals states – Massachusetts, Rhode Is- the organization’s events. I just wanted to highlight the excellent • Medical devices • Festive articles land, Connecticut, Vermont, New service CONECT offers to the local and regional internation- Hampshire, and Maine – and across • Footwear • Toys and games al trade community and the effective trade-promotion activities, all industry sectors – importers and • Apparel for exports as well as imports, of this group. If you don’t know exporters; ocean carriers, ports, and CONECT, check them out at www.conect.org. If you have a sim- terminal operators; freight for- ilar group in your area, attend their meetings and get involved. If warders, non-vessel-operating common carriers, customs brokers, “The apparel seminar was very informative, you don’t have access to a similar organization, get together with and distribution centers; banks, attorneys, and consultants; state reinforcing what I did know and also your local industry friends and colleagues and get one started. clearing up the gray areas and adding agencies; industry associations; media organizations, and others. new knowledge that will make my job less CONECT’s broad and deep membership forms the basis for its Freight may not vote, but we can speak with one voice. Make sure confusing.” mission of trade advocacy, continuous education, and networking you’re heard. Donna VanAernam, Swany America Corp. activities. Barry Horowitz is principal of CMS Consulting Services. The fall Cargo Symposium is one of two major annual CONECT events, the other being the Northeast Trade and Transportation Adapted and reprinted by permission from The Journal of Commerce. Conference, held each year in Newport, R.I. Other significant activities include a group mission to Washington, D.C., to meet with, brief, and be briefed by New England federal officials, and various other trade-related meetings. While the old industry adage that “freight doesn’t vote” remains INTRAL true, CONECT doesn’t take this to mean that cargo has no voice. From the organization’s beginning in 1991, it has represented the interests of New England importers and exporters in matters of in- corporation ternational shipping and logistics as well as all issues dealing with Customs and every other regulatory agency that has any impact on companies’ ability to efficiently move their products into or out of SINCE 1987 the United States. It’s a very ambitious agenda and one that isn’t often accomplished in such a sustained and focused manner. The fall symposium provides an excellent example of the INTRAL CORPORATION wide range of subjects of interest to CONECT’s members: the SUPPLY CHAIN OUTSOURCING changing landscape at Customs and the Department of Home- 3PL & 4PL land Security, of which Customs is a part; the movement and se- COMPLIANCE curity of products and people across all of America’s borders; the potential impact of ocean carrier alliances; and other issues that lie ahead of our industry, including waterfront labor uncertainty, INTRAL WORLDWIDE carrier overcapacity and weak demand for space, the ongoing chas- NVOCC sis dilemma, and the continued downward pressure on rates and FREIGHT FORWARDING the effect on carrier financial results. Panels discuss such topics TRANSPORTATION WAREHOUSING as the ongoing hours-of-service rules for the trucking industry; regulations in the airfreight industry; CBP’s agenda for importers, exporters, forwarders, and brokers; and the agency’s Centers of INTRAL GLOBAL TRADE Consumer Product Safety Luncheon ACE Seminar Excellence and Expertise. Peter Friedmann, an international trade SUPPLY CHAIN SOLUTIONS attorney, provides an insider’s look at what goes on in the halls of PROCUREMENT Darlene Elmblad, Acushnet Company, Louann Spirito, SGS, and STR’s Mark Tallo gave a practical training seminar on CBP’s the federal government. Diane Weinberg, Meeks & Sheppard covered consumer safety aspects Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) web portal to help of footwear and apparel, along with ACE requirements, CPSC attendees improve efficiency and identify cost savings. The CONECT Young Professionals group was established in 2012 WWW.INTRAL.COM eFiling, and best practices for CPSC compliance. for relative newcomers to our industry (age 33 and younger) as an 20 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 21 Boston Cargo Facilities Tours Trade with Canada Seminars

CONECT has partnered with the Consulate General of Canada in Boston, which serves CONECT offers two to three cargo all of New England, to shed light on the benefits and best practices of New England tours in Boston per year (spring, companies that are trading with Canada. At these events, consuls general have laid out summer, and fall). These tours are the “Beyond the Border Action Plan” for interested CONECT members in the states of comprehensive, full-day events, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Maine, and Vermont. Speakers have included CONECT incorporating breakfast at Massport’s BCOs from those states who currently trade with Canada, as well as U.S. Customs and Fish Pier offices, followed by visits to Border Protection and Canadian Border Services Agency officials; customs attorneys; U.S. Customs and Border Protection and cross-border business consultants. (CBP) at the International Cargo Port and to Conley Container Terminal, where the group interacts not only with CBP, but also with Massport officials, security officers, and longshoremen. A networking lunch follows at Liberty Wharf in the bustling new Seaport District. The group then moves on to Logan Airport’s Cargo Complex for an aviation overview, visits the 9/11 Memorial, and observes a K9 demonstration by CBP at Boston Freight Terminals’ General Order warehouse. The busy day ends with an optional tour and tasting at the Harpoon Brewery. This event is the most comprehensive tour of its kind in New England and always sells out.

“CONECT is our go-to source for knowledge, expertise, and connections related to all aspects of our import and export supply chain operations. Through the tangible “Best CONECT event this year was value delivered at CONECT educational events, we have the Boston cargo port tour. It was become a trusted advisor to our clients for expertise an exceptional and rich experience, regarding their import and export operations. When we visiting the terminals and observing do not have an answer in-house, we can find the subject- the truck portal, touring the port, matter expert through the CONECT network.” and meeting with Massport and CBP Tim Barrett, Barrett Distribution Centers folks. And on top of it being a great learning experience, it was a first- class session. Hard to beat!” Jim Rice, MIT Worcester Cargo Facilities Tour

The Worcester cargo tour included a meeting with Customs officers at Euro-American’s airport warehouse, where officers explained the “Thank you all for your efforts in arranging and providing us with a system of cargo processing through Worcester. very informative tour last week. Stefanie and Karen did a fantastic job A CBP K9 unit successfully performed a with every aspect of our day in Boston. I found them both to be very currency search and seizure demonstration. A knowledgeable, well organized, and thorough.” tour of Worcester Airport followed, just before Noreen Morgan, CPM the group traveled to Intransit Container’s yard to view the double-stack rail terminal and “My company has sent all of our buyers on the CONECT Boston port intermodal yard, which offers daily rail service tour, which has helped them greatly to understand how freight moves to NY/NJ, trucking, a neutral chassis pool, and a in and out of the country. It is always a great venue to stay in touch with transload warehouse. CSX’s state-of-the-art rail people who understand your business better than anyone else.” facility, a domestic intermodal freight yard, was Cindy Benway, TACO the last official stop of a busy CONECT day.

22 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 23 Boston Cargo Facilities Tours Trade with Canada Seminars

22 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org www.CONECT.org Coalition of New England Companies for Trade 23 CONECT’s Congressional Roundtables

Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) joins Massport CEO Tom Glynn in a discussion of Boston’s trade and transportation issues at a CONECT Roundtable Luncheon, held at the Harpoon Brewery.

CONECT board of directors members meet with Senator Jack Reed at Quonset Development/Port of Davisville, R.I.

CONECT meets Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) at Euro-American’s offices in Worcester, MA

CONECT regularly hosts member meetings with New England’s congressional delegates to keep them apprised of trade and transportation issues affecting their constituents and to advocate for trade. The intimate size of these events allows for lively interaction between congressional representatives and CONECT members. Here are just some of the Congressional Roundtables CONECT has hosted over the years: • Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (MA) • Congressman Richard Neal (MA) • Congressman Stephen Lynch (MA) • Congressman Peter Welch (VT) • Congressman David Cicciline (RI) • Congressman Michael Capuano (MA) • Senator Jack Reed (RI) • Congressman Barney Frank (MA) • Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME) • Congressman Chris Shays (CT) • Congressman Jim McGovern (MA) • Congressman Joe Moakley (MA) Congressman Michael Capuano (D-MA) For a Congressional Roundtable in your district, contact CONECT at 508-481-0424. greets CONECT at Teradyne in Boston. CONECT Thanks Our Partners

24 Coalition of New England Companies for Trade www.CONECT.org CONECT’s Congressional Roundtables

Congressman Stephen Lynch (D-MA) joins Massport CEO Tom Glynn in a discussion of Boston’s trade and transportation issues at a CONECT Roundtable Luncheon, held at the Harpoon Brewery.

CONECT board of directors members meet with Senator Jack Reed at Quonset Development/Port of Davisville, R.I.

CONECT meets Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) at Euro-American’s offices in Worcester, MA

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