NYSAR is kicking off 2012 with a brand new logo and tagline that we feel better symbolizes our direction as a forward-thinking organization focused on supporting you and your business. Together, the new logo and tagline act as a powerful reminder – directly reflecting the energy and momentum that drive NYSAR every day. Click here to learn more.

NYSAR has partnered with local boards and associations to offer "Get It Listed...Get It Sold!" in 12 locations around New York State including Staten Island on January 5-6 (see "Upcoming Events" below for details). These classes will be free to members who register for another REALTOR Institute course, a $225 value. Click here to learn more.

The 2012 course schedule has been posted and includes a wealth of programs designed to position you to stand out from the crowd. Click here for more information.

According to the latest report from the state Comptroller's Office, with about 54 percent of municipalities reporting, 19 percent plan to override the 2-percent cap on local property taxes. Click here to learn more.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo's Mandate Relief Redesign Team issued a final report last week outlining how New York's municipal governments could save billions in state-required expenses. Click here to learn more.

The National Association of REALTORS has issued a summary of the advocacy activity conducted on behalf of REALTORS in 2011. Click here to learn more.

Click here to read the entire Government Affairs Weekly Update.

The next NYSAR Radio show will focus on the proper use of the Agency Disclosure form. Tune in at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 10, by clicking here. Click here for more information.

In an effort to "go green" and to provide members with the opportunity to choose how they receive New York State REALTOR magazine, you may opt to receive the magazine in a digital format only. If you take no action, you will continue to receive both print and digital versions. Visit http://66.109.41.99/nysarmagpreferences.aspx and select the box to the right to opt-out. Please contact NYSAR at 518-463-0300 with questions.

REALTOR Institute 401 – "Get it Listed...Get it Sold" – will be offered January 5-6 at the Staten Island Board of REALTORS office in Staten Island, NY. The course teaches you new methods of marketing and ways to integrate technology into your business to increase your listings, sales and profits.This course is free when you register for another GRI course (see REALTOR NEWS section above for more information). To take advantage of this deal, call 800-239-4432 to register. Click here for more information or to register for this course only.

The Inman Connect NYC conference will be held January 11-13 at the Marriot Marquis Times Square in New York City. Discover emerging trends and technology, to network and make deals and to learn how to leverage the change that surrounds the real estate industry. Click here for more information or to register.

The NYSAR Mid-Winter Business Meetings will be held February 13–16, 2012, at the Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Albany, NY. The meetings will feature committee meetings, inaugural dinner, the Association Update and more. Click here for more information or to register.

Take advantage of your NYSAR membership to access: comprehensive insurance options from USI Affinity; E&O coverage from Pearl Insurance; electrical and natural gas supply from Energy Plus; free fax-to-email services from MongoFAX; shipping discounts from UPS; and much more. Click here to learn more.

RPAC of New York recognizes Perry Gault from the Bronx Manhattan North Association of REALTORS as the very first $1,000 investor in the 2012 RPAC fundraising year. Thank you, Perry, for your consistent support of RPAC! Click here to learn how you can in invest in RPAC in 2012.