Managing a municipality in Massachusetts is both exciting and unique. Exciting because of the opportunities for making positive contributions and facilitating improvements; and unique because Massachusetts’ local governmental structure and its general laws are steeped in centuries old New England traditions, values and heritage. Thankfully, the Massachusetts Municipal Management Association offers various resources to assist managers, assistants, and others in meeting these challenges. The MMMA operates under the guidance of an Executive Committee, which is comprised of a president, two vice presidents, a secretary/treasurer, four members-at-large and five district representatives. As a member you can serve on any of the various MMMA program and policy committees, depending on your interest and expertise. The MMMA maintains a continuing relationship with the International City Management Association (ICMA). Massachusetts was one of the first states to have a written contract outlining a relationship between the ICMA and MMMA. The relationship with ICMA has been strengthened in recent years by representation on the ICMA Board from our membership as well as the MMMA hosting the ICMA conference in Boston in 1990.  Boston will again host the conference in 2013. All MMMA members must adhere to the MMMA Code of Ethics.  If you are an ICMA member, their Code of Ethics applies to you. Some of the many benefits of being a MMMA member are: Various professional development training opportunities, including an annual two-day event at UMass Amherst. Many offer ICMA University Workshops at a reduced cost. Half-day workshops focusing on the “nuts and bolts” of managing with ample networking opportunities. Access to the “Members Only” section of the MMMA website, which offers a variety of special tools, e-mail alerts, reference materials, and informational resources. Scholarship programs for members to attend MMMA meetings and the ICMA Annual Conference. Annual salary survey with detailed benefit information, now available on-line. Access to legal assistance with employment contract issues. Member in Transition Program and peer-to-peer guidance Member rate for all MMA publications. Social events & networking opportunities planned by the Member Services Committee of the MMMA. Form of Government Committee and speaker’s bureau, which is available to assist communities with charter and bylaw reviews, and provide feedback on town organization. Informational booth at the MMA Annual Meeting in Boston. The booth will highlight professional management and how communities can benefit from hiring a professional administrator. Please contact MMA Senior Member Services Coordinator Denise Baker for more information on joining the MMMA.