Although HARDI’s 6th Annual fall conference in Orlando was down about 12% in attendance from the previous year, Executive Vice President Donald Frendberg was not disappointed. Several reasons, he says, can account for this positive attitude: the fact that we are in the midst an economic downturn and conference attendance was not very low compared to many other trade associations. Further it was obvious the prime executives of member companies were in attendance, and the shortfall could be attributed to many companies understandably not sending as many people this year because of the economy.

Conference Highlights

  • The Committee and Council Meetings saw the greatest participation in the history of HARDI and its predecessor organizations, which can be attributed to the plethora of issues of concern to wholesalers, suppliers and reps as they look to 2010 and beyond. Subjects eliciting great concern and discussion included HCFC Refrigerant phase-out, regional standards, federal tax credits, the health care debate, regional economic trends forecasts, steel market conditions and a myriad of government regulatory and legislative issues that are or will affect everyone's business.

  • The presentation by HARDI Economist Alan Beaulieu of the Institute for Trend Research drew unprecedented attendance for his highly anticipated and accurate forecast of the economic future. His humorous and positive, yet realistic, outlook was undoubtedly a high spot for many.

  • The Opening Reception and Conference Booth Program were again highly successful networking and business development opportunities for all.

  • The numerous presenters focused on the conference theme of Turning up the Heat on Recovery, providing ideas, insights and action points that are driving positive business results in many companies.

  • HALO, the HARDI Heating and Airconditioning Women's Organization, through their silent auction and Cancer Walk, raised an outstanding $15,500 for the benefit of the American Cancer Society.

  • The Education Committee has elected to change the name of the Home Study Institute to the Independent Study Institute.

  • The Habitat for Humanity Committee has changed its name to the Impact Committee to better reflect its mission to serve various charitable needs.

  • The Executive Development Committee announced the Professional Development Ski Retreat has been restored and will be held January 11 -13th, 2010, in Vail, CO. Michael Marks will be the featured facilitator. See the HARDI Web site for information and registration.


    • Also during the meeting, the board of directors’ deliberations included:

  • Treasurer Richard Cook reviewed the 12-month audited financial reports and reported the association is financially secure with adequate cash reserves despite a tumultuous economic year.

  • The following new member applicants were approved:
    Wholesales
    1)  Don Stevens, Inc. Egan, MN
    2)  P & H Supply, Muskogee, OK

     
  • Manufacturers
    1)  Burke Industrial Coatings
    2)  Covertech
    3)  Peerless Boilers
    4)  Southwire Company
    5)  Braford White Corp.
    6)  Goodman

     
  • Manufacturer Representatives
    1)  Bornquist, Inc.

     
  • Service Vendors
    1)  DDI Systems, LLC
    2)  Thermostat Recycling Corp.

     
  • Upon recommendation of the Finance Committee approval was given for a 3% dues increase for FY 2011.

     
  • The Board approved the establishment of a Retired Colleague Membership Category to allow retired individuals from HARDI member companies to remain engaged and involved in the work of the association and the industry.


    • Links