STAFDA News, August/September 2010
All eyes on Phoenix
All eyes will be on Phoenix this fall during STAFDA’s 34th Annual Convention & Trade Show, November 7-9. STAFDA has created an agenda geared specifically to help members make a Phoenix-like rise from the ashes of the recession.
Sunday, November 7
STAFDA and economist Alan Beaulieu have scheduled an Economic Forecast for Sunday morning. President, economist and principal for the Institute for Trend Research, Alan will use his skills to look at key leading indicators to assess the financial trajectory for STAFDA and the construction/industrial markets for 2011 and beyond.
Four Educational Workshops continue STAFDA’s business agenda. Choose from four, 90-minute programs that focus on industry-specific issues. They will repeat following a break. Bob DeStefano with “Build an Online Marketing Machine;” a panel discussion featuring M. Jay Heilbrunn and Herb Shields on “The Outlook for Distributor Bank Credit;” Dr. Bill McCleave will focus on “Differentiating Your Distribution Company;” and Tom Reilly will take on “Winning the Price Battle...One Profitable Sale at a Time.”
The Spouse/Companion program features Southwestern art expert Terry DeWald, and an amazing display of some of the rugs, baskets, and pottery he’s collected. The second portion of the program involves a hands-on jewelry making class inspired by Native American artwork.
After a day of learning, it’s time to dust off your boots for STAFDA’s Rollin’ to Rawhide Opening Party. For three hours, members will be able to roam the streets of this 1880s frontier town without fear of rustlers while enjoying dinner, libations and entertainment. Busing will be provided from all three STAFDA Convention hotels.
Monday, November 8
The General Session kicks off with the “Year-in-Review” A/V presentation. STAFDA President Robert Devers will then provide the “State-of-the-Industry” address followed by Max (Andy) Johnson, Mar-Mac Wire, with the Associate State-of-the-Industry.
Former Alaska governor, author and face of the “Tea Party” movement, Sarah Palin will then take the stage as this year’s keynote speaker.
The Trade Show opens at noon to provide six hours worth of new products, show specials and contacts with decision makers from distributors, manufacturers, and rep agent member companies. The STAFDA Trade Show has become a can’t miss industry event.
The Tech & Consultants’ Fair will also be open Monday providing a chance to test out the newest software and hardware applications as well as meet with STAFDA-endorsed consultants and service providers.
Tuesday, November 9
Spouses/companions may choose from two, day tours: awe-inspiring Sedona or the educational Southwest Story of Phoenix. Members will have another six hours on the floor from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. to finish their business before the Closing San Antonio Fiesta at the Sheraton Phoenix.
You must be a STAFDA member to participate in our Annual Convention & Trade Show. For a full Convention agenda, please visit our Web site, www.stafda.org.
In addition, STAFDA tries to stay on the cutting edge and recently introduced a “STAFDA App.” It’s a fully integrated mobile website attendees can use to make sure they’re getting the absolute most out of their time in Phoenix. View it from an iPhone or other personal hand-held device. Attendees can manage their Trade Show schedule, keep track of show specials, and find Phoenix restaurants and attractions. Please check it out by visiting www.tripbuilder.mobi/stafda2010.
For more information on these programs and STAFDA membership, please contact Catherine Usher, Member Services Director, at 800/352-2981, e-mail cusher@stafda.org, or visit STAFDA’s Web site, www.stafda.org.