Happy New Year!

Michael R. Morris Editor in Chief

As I write this, it's three days before Christmas. By the time this issue hits your desk, all the holiday hubbub will be over, New Year's resolutions will have been pledged and the books will be officially closed on 2006.

It's a great time for a fresh start, both for your business and for our staff at Professional Remodeler.

You'll also notice that we've added some new departments that will be a regular part of every issue.

Trade Secrets (page 15) is our answer to your desire for more best business practices from successful firms across the country. If you're looking for ideas to improve any area of your operation — from sales and marketing to design and production — you'll find it here. Be sure and participate in our reader poll every month, which you'll find in Trade Secrets, by logging on to our recently revamped Web site, www.ProRemodeler.com.

Perhaps the most exciting addition to our table of contents is the launch of a new column, The Board Room, where each month a different member of our editorial advisory board will write about the most important topics facing our industry. You won't want to miss a single article from this highly respected group of industry leaders, starting with this month's column on innovation and change by past national NARI president Paul Winans.

You requested more information on the latest products available in the marketplace, so we've tripled our coverage, with separate sections devoted to new products, interior products and exterior products every month.

We've doubled our efforts to provide award-winning designs as well. Each portfolio will feature an interior and exterior project (pages 36 and 42 this month).

Last but not least, you've surely noticed the bold new logo and cover design that art director Larry Nigh has created. Larry's flair for innovative, eye-catching design carries from the cover throughout the magazine, and it's a fitting reflection of the industry we serve. My hat goes off to him for the colorful approach he's taken in every part of the magazine.

Please let us know what you think of the new Professional Remodeler. We've made these improvements with your needs and interests in mind, so I look forward to your feedback and ideas as we move into 2007.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

630/288-8057 michael.morris@reedbusiness.com