Ms. McCarthy has completed one year of doctoral research and studied international relations, economics and the international political economy of energy as an undergraduate. Professionally, she also has extensive experience in commodities trading. In the financial realm, she worked in mergers & acquisitions, private equity and merchant finance. Ms. McCarthy will contribute to the industry’s efforts from the regional to the national level by providing NEFI and its allies with invaluable analysis on key areas of public policy that affect the industry. This is especially important as state, regional and federal policy- and law-makers tackle ambitious new climate change, energy and tax reform proposals in the coming year. NEFI is very pleased to have her on-board. Ms. McCarthy can be reached via email at Elizabeth@nefi.com.

A LOOK BACK AT ROLLER COASTER RIDE
THAT WAS THE YEAR 2008
Without question, the past year has been an eventful one for the fuel industry. We’ve seen extremely volatile energy commodity markets, a historic high and subsequent collapse for crude oil, partisan battles in Congress and a bitter national election, the collapse of Wall Street investment banks, tightening credit markets, promises of tough new climate change and energy policies from the states to Washington, DC. As a result, fuel dealers and the industry at-large have been (and continue to be) tested. The industry has shown that it is resilient, determined and hopeful for a brighter tomorrow. In the face of some of the worst economic conditions since the Great Depression, fuel dealers large and small now look forward to the future, one of innovation and progress on key issues. Throughout these trials and tribulations, the NEFI Action Center has been a voice for its member companies and the industry when it mattered most, teaming up with coalitions, allies and other industry groups.

NEFI has tackled key regional policy initiatives, new legislation and proposed regulations in Washington. We’ve won some key victories, from helping to advance and pass futures market reform legislation, to regulatory achievements including a broader small business classification for heating oil and propane marketers and an exemption from certain Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) requirements for parked trucks. NEFI has helped bring lawmaker, media and consumer attention to alleged speculation and manipulation in the commodities markets, helping to take the heat of skyrocketing commodities prices off the retailer and onto the Wall Street investors that were using the markets as an asset class rather than a risk management tool for commercial players. We have saved member companies thousands of dollars in potential compliance costs and fines for non-compliance. After years of calling for a fully funded federal LIHEAP, the program was fully funded for the 2009 fiscal year to the tune of $5.1 billion -- the largest amount in the program’s 25+ year history. These are not our victories -- they are YOUR victories. None of this would be possible without the support members like you. As we enter a New Year, know that we are here to serve you and look out for your interest, and we cannot do it without you. Thank you.

HOW YOU CAN HELP CONTRIBUTE TO
THE 'INDUSTRY’S CAUSE'
Wondering how you can contribute to the great work done by the New England Fuel Institute, its Legislative & Regulatory Action Center, Government Affairs Committee and various coalitions, partnerships, and alliances? With the new Congress, new President and possibly the most ambitious legislative and regulatory agenda in history on the horizon, your help is needed now more than ever! Please consider a contribution -- even a small contribution of $100 or $300 -- to the NEFI Action Center Fund. Simply visit www.nefiactioncenter.com and click "Make a Donation" (NO log-in or password required) which is in bold red font in the menu on the left side of the screen. When the "Contribution/Pledge Form" page opens, simply fill out the desired donation amount, billing information and contact information fields and click "submit contribution." Donors can either choose to be billed for their donation or may use a credit card (we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Remember that our pledge forms list suggested donations only. A full list of 2008 contributors can also be found at the bottom of the main page at the NEFI Action Center site. If you have any questions concerning the donation process, contact Dave Huffman at NEFI at (617) 923-5022 or dave@nefi.com. Thank you for your support!