ILMA Compoundings October 2017 - 5

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Before October Passes By

iving near New York City gives me the opportunity to see great Broadway shows, and I was fortunate to recently see
Bette Midler in Hello, Dolly! Yes, a once in a lifetime opportunity to see one of the best female performers. I went with
a good friend who had a better understanding of the show, and I learned more about Dolly Levi from people who performed in the show by going backstage to see the scenic design and meet the dancers. The songs, written many years ago, still
have a lot of meaning because the music is everlasting, whether it is Put on Your Sunday Clothes or, of course, one that declares
a motto we all want to live by, Before the Parade Passes By.
Seeing Hello, Dolly! reminded me to not let things pass by, even though this year as president did pass quickly. My twins are
now seniors in high school and will be selecting where they go to university. As time passes by, so goes my term as president
- but you're not getting rid of me altogether. I will still be on the executive committee, and I will continue involvement on
behalf of Hangsterfer's for many, many years to come.
The title of "President" is just that - a title. It takes a group, not just one person, to be successful. The greatest success is a
team effort. Our industry is so important, and we do amazing things in each of our companies. From engine oils in race car
engines made using metalworking lubricants, to member products used in the production of airplanes and automobiles. From
the oil that keeps everyday cars running, to tractor fluid that sustains the production of agriculture. Our industry touches all
other industries, and it has been an honor to be president of ILMA.
A milestone for ILMA is coming up next year, the Association's 70th anniversary, and we are looking forward to celebrating.
This year has been a milestone year for me - Hangsterfer's celebrates its 80th anniversary as my mom celebrates her 80th
birthday. And, yes, I am probably the first and only president to be going through a divorce during her term, but someone has
to be the first, right? The timing of being ILMA's president has been very good for me, and the kindness shown to me by the
Association has inspired me professionally.
I continue to learn from our consultants and advisors, including Jeff Leiter, Daniel Bryant, John Howell, Murray Carter,
Larry Kuntschik and Luc Girard. The process of understanding our members' products and legal and financial issues has been
a wonderful learning experience for me. I'm grateful to all those who have helped me to understand different areas of the
Association's operations.
I must add that I have known Jeff Leiter since before my sister, Leslie, was president of ILMA (1999-2000), and the Association has continued to benefit from his expertise and experiences.
ILMA is made up of wonderful family businesses and larger companies, all with dedicated representatives who attend
ILMA meetings. From the Board, to the members and the fabulous spouses and Women of ILMA (WILMA), we have a hardworking and fun group. The ILMA office under CEO Holly Alfano is running like a well-oiled machine that is set to keep
rolling right along.
So, here's to all of us continuing to run smoothly and not letting the parade pass us by. I'm passing on the president's gavel,
but maybe someone can give me an old baton. Thank you for joining the parade.

Thanks for a great year, Beth!
From the ILMA staff

Beth Ann Jones
ILMA President

ILMA Compoundings October 2017

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of ILMA Compoundings October 2017