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If you missed the 2010 Annual Meeting in Lancaster, PA last month, you really missed out on a great event. Everybody is talking about what a welcome change it was to experience the upbeat attitudes of members and sponsors alike. It seems we may have turned a corner and be starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The general atmosphere both days was one of renewed enthusiasm for what a great industry we are all a part of.
This year we went to two full days of program and with almost 350 people in attendance, not a moment was wasted. Both days, I heard members saying, “If I’d known it was going to be this good, I’d have brought more of my staff”. We know we are going to have to be ready for a big group next year if the feedback we have been getting is any indication. It was very gratifying to see such exuberance at our 10th Anniversary celebration.
Almost 60 sponsors participated, helping to make MAHPBA’s one of the best Annual Meetings in the country. Many industry leaders were on hand and it made us proud to hear them say that the MAHPBA members are some of the most engaged in the industry. Those who attended enjoyed having a chance to talk and exchange ideas with the sponsors about their products and services. Not only did we get to visit their booths, but we had time to share a drink and have a relaxed meal together. The camaraderie of the hearth industry is one of the unique facets that I love about it.
The CEU sessions were packed with interested attendees ready to learn the skills that will help them further their individual businesses and the industry as a whole. We’re a sharp bunch in the Mid Atlantic and several of the presenters noticed it and mentioned it to us. There were no “snoozers” in these classes and we all picked up lots of CEU’s. We offered some classes in new arenas this year and they were well received. The Internet Marketing class and the Insurance both received high marks. Remember, if you have any suggestions for topics you’d like to see in the future, we’d love to hear about them.
A big thanks goes out to Diane, Holly, Lynda and Stephanie for all their efforts. If you see Eiron Scheetz or Shannon Rodgers be sure and thank them also. Lots of volunteer hours go into Annual Meeting. We hope you enjoyed it and will back next year.
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