EXECUTIVE PERSPECTIVE ALOA Opportunities from last year, but so many meaningful parts remain consistent. It’s the same here at ALOA. It’s been a T trying and difficult year in so many ways, from the loss of some staff members to not being able to hold our two conven- tions and more. But through it all, we’ve been able to continue providing member benefits and assistance, and we’ve found new ways to provide education. Difficult times oſten result in innova- tion, and this year has been no exception. We’ve created a great deal of affordable webinars on a variety of subjects, and attendance has been fantastic. There is also a new podcast called Locksmith Talk With ALOA, which is free for members and will soon be available to nonmembers for a small fee. Host Bill Lynk interviews a guest each week on subjects relevant to the industry, from technical topics to business acumen. Look for it on most major podcast platforms, or click here. Conventions and Scholarship Opportunities Speaking of education, we are moving for- ward with 2021 SAFETECH and ALOA Convention planning. While things could still change — given the fluidity of this 6 KEYNOTES DECEMBER 2020 his very long year is finally coming to a close. I hope you are all enjoy- ing the holiday season. It might feel a bit different pandemic — we are looking forward to seeing everyone in Reno and Orlando! We are finalizing SAFETECH details now, so look for the full registration brochure in January. We hope to see you there. ALOA Scholarship Foundation is again offering scholarships for 2021 classes, and that includes those taken at conventions. This is such wonderful program that al- lows security professionals to progress in their careers, from techs new to the in- dustry to those looking to gain advanced knowledge. Thank you to all of the com- panies and individuals who donate to this worthy cause. If you’d like to apply, please take a look at the information and form on pages 57 and 58 in this issue. If you’re looking to attend SAFETECH, the deadline for ap- plying for scholarships is January 27, so don’t delay. ALOA Elections It’s again that time of year where those interested in running for the ALOA Board should start gathering their materials. This year, positions up for election in- clude President (you must currently be on the board or served in the past three years), Southeast Director, North Central Director, Southwest Director and Asso- ciate Region Director. It’s a great honor to serve on the board, but it’s also a great service. Serving on the board allows you to have a voice in ALOA operations, and you can make a real difference in the in- dustry. Please consider volunteering your time by running for a board position. Nomination materials are available on pages 11 and 12 in this issue, and you must submit them by March 1. If you have any questions, please contact membership@ aloa.org; we’re happy to help. As a final reminder, be sure to get your membership renewals completed by December 31 so you won’t have any lapse in benefits. I know it’s been a dif- ficult year for many, both profession- ally and personally, and we appreciate your membership so much. From tak- ing classes and buying books to simply staying in touch with us, thank you for all the ways you’ve continued to support ALOA in 2020. Have a wonderful rest of your holiday season, and we hope to see you in the New Year! Mary A. May Executive Director [email protected] WWW.ALOA.ORG
