EXHIBITIONS STAFDA’s Phoenix convention soars


Attitudes rose fromthe ashes during the 34th 7th – 9th


T Annual STAFDA Convention & Trade Show in Phoenix, November. Georgia Foley, STAFDA’s executive director noted that optimismand a determination


to get business done were prevalent among the 4,215 attendees with brisk activity during both days of the 765 booth trade show.


he convention began Sunday morning as economist Alan Beaulieu rolled out his economic forecast. President, economist, and principle for the Institute for Trend Research, Alan took a look at 2010’s track record and


offered insights as to where 2011 would take the U.S. and Canadian economies in the construction and industrial markets along with a global outlook. Later that day, members were


Monday’s General Session The General Session opened with an amazing Native American


hoop dance before the “Year-in-Review” A/V presentation. STAFDA 2010 president Robert Devers, A-Jax Co., Jacksonville, FL, provided the “State-of-the-Industry” address followed by Max (Andy) Johnson, Mar-Mac Wire, McBee, SC, with the Associate State-of-the-Industry. Former Alaska governor, author, and face


of the “Tea Party” movement, Sarah Palin’s keynote presentation wowed STAFDA members and made national headlines. Her comments on several bills working their way through Congress, “Obamacare,” and her sharp criticism of Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke were picked up by FOX News, CNN, the Wall Street Journal, the Drudge Report, Anderson Cooper 360, and other media outlets. Following the General Session, STAFDA’s


Trade Show aisles were packed for six hours worth of new products, show specials, and contacts with decision makers from distributors, manufacturers, and rep agent member companies. The Tech & Consultants’ Fair was also a popular stop as members checked out the newest software, hardware, and e-business applications as well as meeting with STAFDA- endorsed consultants and service providers. Tuesday saw attendees have another six hours on the show floor to finish their business


able to choose from four, 90 minute programs that focused on industry-specific issues: Bob DeStefano with “How to Build an Online Marketing Machine;” a panel discussion moderated by The Distributor Board’s M. Jay Heilbrunn and Herb Shields on “The Outlook for Distributor Bank Credit” with panelists Dr. David Altig of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Chuck Gitles (American Chartered Bank), Dean Rennell (Wells Fargo Bank), and John Weber (Associated Bank); Dr. Bill McCleave presented “Differentiating Your Distribution Company;” and STAFDA’s sales consultant Tom Reilly led “Winning the Price Battle …One Profitable Sale at a Time.” Spouses and companions had a two-part programme Sunday


afternoon featuring Southwestern art expert Terry DeWald showing an amazing display of rugs, baskets, and pottery – many of which he sold to attendees. The second portion was a hands- on jewelry and dream catcher making class conducted by Native American Antoinetta Hammill. Participants left the programme with an item to take home. After a full day in the classroom, members kicked up the dust


during STAFDA’s Rollin’ to Rawhide Opening Party. For three hours, attendees roamed the streets of this 1880s frontier town without fear of rustlers while enjoying dinner, libations, shopping, and entertainment.


before the Closing Fiesta Party at the Sheraton Phoenix. STAFDA’s Annual


35th


Convention & Trade Show will be 13th


– 15th


November at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. Members will be mailed registration packets on 24th June with online registration beginning at 8:00am (Central) on 27th


June. You


must be a STAFDA member to attend.


48 Fastener + Fixing Magazine • Issue 67 January 2011


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