This is the 12th December edi- tor’s letter I’ve written for TileLetter. I always marvel when I get to the end of the year that another year has passed into memory once again, together with all the highs and lows, and joys and sorrows it has con- tained. This year is no different. And yet, perhaps it is. Because each year has its own flavor, its own dis- tinctive mark. What made 2018 nota- ble for you in your business life and in your personal life? December is the time for reflection, before we launch headlong into a fresh new year. Here at NTCA, the shape of our association has morphed in 2018 with the addition of new staff (see Bart Bettiga’s recap and forecast on page 20). NTCA is on the cusp of a new workshop format and new ini- tiatives for 2019. Across the Pond, at Cersaie in October, the efforts of Assoposa resulted in a revamped Tiling Town that showcased installa- tion excellence and laid the ground- work for a spate of installation cours- es throughout the coming year. Read more about this in our Tech Talk feature on page 84. And maybe this year, you invested in a new vehicle. Carl “The Flash” Leonard, NTCA member in New Jersey did, and gave his old van to a deserving member of the indus- try who needed vehicular resources to get his business up and running again. Get the details in our Hot Topics feature and ogle other rides and rigs prized by NTCA contractor members. December also marks the first letter from the new NTCA President, Chris Walker, of David Allen Company. Tap into his passion and vision for the association and the industry on page 16. December is nothing if not a season full of celebrations and opportunity to gather with friends and family, renew your faith, be dazzled by light dis- plays, sing traditional songs, enjoy favorite foods and bestow gifts on loved ones. Here’s affirming a bril- liant season for you, no matter which holidays you celebrate and a time of renewal, reflection and rejuvenation that will fully prepare you for a pros- perous 2019. God bless us, every one! Lesley lesley@tile-assn.com EDITOR’S LETTER Lesley A. Goddin Year’s end is neither an end nor a beginning but a going on, with all the wisdom that experience can instill in us. – Hal Borland 14 TileLetter | December 2018