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NORTHEASTERN LUMBER Manufacturers Association gathered Sept. 30-Oct. 2 at the Samoset Resort on the Ocean in Rockport, Me., for its 93rd annual meeting, highlighted by a major leadership transition and a tribute to one of the association’s most respected industry figures.
The meeting marked the final annual gathering for Jeff Easterling as NELMA president, concluding a 25-year tenure leading the organization. Easterling’s successor, Matt Pomeroy, participated throughout the event as the association prepares for its next chapter. Joining Easterling for the occasion was his daughter, Sydney Easterling, a police officer with the Raleigh (N.C.) Police Department.
Members also paused for a moving remembrance of Alden Robbins, whose passing earlier this year was felt throughout the Northeastern lumber community. Family members in attendance included siblings Jim and Catherine Robbins and Alden’s son, Will.
The annual meeting opened with the annual golf scramble, followed by exhibits and product displays, a welcome reception, and the yearly business meeting led by NELMA chairman Matt Duprey of Hancock Lumber.
During the business session, Easterling delivered his final State of the Association address and reviewed NELMA’s activities and accomplishments over the past year. Kim Drew highlighted the association’s public relations successes, while John Rooks spoke on NELMA’s AI-assisted value chain research tool. Susan Coulombe provided an update on Softwood Lumber Board activities, and Russell Edgar reviewed results from NELMA’s SPF lumber testing program.
A featured presentation by economist Paul Jannke, Forest Economic Advisors, examined current market conditions under the theme, “Supply Disruptions Blunt Weak Demand,” offering attendees insight into the forces shaping lumber markets.
Networking opportunities continued throughout the week, including the NAWLA Northeast meeting held in conjunction with the conference on Oct. 1.
Members also approved board nominations and officer appointments for the coming year. All current officers will continue for a second term, including chairman Duprey, 1st vice chairman Jason Brochu, 2nd vice chairman Alex Darrah, and treasurer Robert Moses.
Newly nominated to the board were Jeff Hardy, Cersosimo Lumber, Brattleboro, Vt.; Jed Whiting, Fontaine Inc., Stratton, Me.; Jeff Johanns, Hedstrom Lumber, Grand Marais, Mn.; and associate representative Jim Dermody, Seaboard International, Nashua, N.H.
As members reflected on both the retirement of Easterling and the legacy of Robbins, the annual meeting underscored NELMA’s blend of continuity and change.
