HARDI's Frendberg Still Optimistic After Fall Conference
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.
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.
Conference Highlights
Also during the meeting, the board of directors’ deliberations included:
Wholesales
1) Don Stevens, Inc. Egan, MN
2) P & H Supply, Muskogee, OK
1) Burke Industrial Coatings
2) Covertech
3) Peerless Boilers
4) Southwire Company
5) Braford White Corp.
6) Goodman
1) Bornquist, Inc.
1) DDI Systems, LLC
2) Thermostat Recycling Corp.
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