SMA Annual Conference 2009

Now in its twenty-first year, this annual event continues to provide SMA members with invaluable networking opportunities, as well, the SMA will again offer educational seminars, led by industry respected experts, in addition to the networking and social events that have always been provided.

You’d be missing out if you didn’t take this opportunity to learn about the latest industry trends and services. So come on out and experience the educational and networking benefits that only the SMA annual conference can offer!

Stay in Beachfront Elegance

The Sandpearl Resort combines sophisticated amenities with the warmth and appeal of timeless island architecture, offering luxurious accommodations, a world-class spa and signature cuisine. As well, each of the Sandpearl Resort’s elegantly appointed guestrooms feature glorious views of scenic shoreline and idyllic sunsets and are equipped with the finest amenities.

So, come enjoy the 700 feet of pristine Florida beachfront, Gulf-front lagoon-style pool and private poolside cabanas at this beachfront paradise that offers something for everyone!

A Sensational Value

This year’s registration fees are lower than ever so be sure to take advantage of this great learning opportunity in a beautiful setting. The Sandpearl Resort, is offering you a rejuvenating beach getaway at a discounted rate of just $194* per single/double, plus tax. To book your room, call 877/726-3111 and be sure to mention that you are with the SMA. This discounted room rate offer will end on Saturday, April 11, 2009. If you need to contact the hotel directly, please dial 727/674-4111.

Non-Members Welcome

Interested in the learning more about the stairway industry and the efforts of the SMA? Even if you are not a SMA member, you are welcome to join this year’s annual event. Learn more about the issues that affect your industry, interact with other industry members and come see what the SMA is all about.

* $15.00 resort amenity fee per room per night is additional. The resort fee includes access to the state-of-the-art fitness center, unlimited local calls and toll free number access, free wired and wireless internet access, delivered daily newspaper, in-room coffee and bottled water, nightly shoe shine, access to the business center and beach/pool towels.

Schedule At A Glance

Saturday, May 2, 2009
6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Pre-Conference Dinner Cruise

Sunday, May 3, 2009
8:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Golf Outing
3:00 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Opening and Welcome
3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Special Session: High Impact Leadership—Why Leadership Matters Today
4:30 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. New Member Orientation/Round Tables
5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. SMA Welcome Cocktail Party

Monday, May 4, 2009
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Welcome & State of the SMA Address
8:30 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. Code Update
9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Keynote Economist
11:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. SMA Committee Updates
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Lunch with Committee Chairs
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. How We Did It: Winners Circle 2008
2:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. Internet Marketing: Websites that Produce Results
3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. How Green Marketing Will Affect Your Business
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Tour of Sand Pearl LEED Facility
7:00 p.m. Reception
8:00 p.m. Dinner and SMA Staircraft and Golf Awards Presentation

Tuesday, May 5, 2009
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Managing a Stair Business Through Tough Economic Times
9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. Slide Presentation: Your New Competition
10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Knowing Your Costs/Running a Profitable Stair Business
11:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Event Wrap-Up

What Can Pre-Registering Do For You?

Pre-registration saves you money with reduced registration fees and alleviates long lines on show days. Pre-registration also helps us plan proper room sizes and seating, adequate food and beverage and other items for your enjoyment and comfort. You must pre-register by the end of business on April 10, 2009. Any registration received after this date will be considered on-site registration.

Networking Opportunities

Don’t forget to join us Sunday and Monday for nightly receptions. Additionally, there will be a formal dinner held Monday night. All of these events are excellent opportunities for you to relax and network with other attendees. Perhaps you have some questions for similar attendees in other regions of the country. This is an opportune chance to pick their brains and learn new troubleshooting techniques. Catch up with an old colleague over drinks and talk shop. Whatever your desire, don’t stay away or you could miss out on inside tips from your stair industry peers!

Second Annual SMA Stair Craft Awards

Also at the conference, the SMA will make the second presentation of the “SMA Stair Craft Awards.” These awards will be presented to the manufacturers and builders of products that best express the aesthetic value, concern for safe use, quality of workmanship and technical challenges of the state of the craft. This peer-based award will be decided by the membership, casting a single ballot in each category after reviewing the submissions that will be presented anonymously to the membership by entry number (only non-voting office staff will know the companies participating).

For a complete listing of the rules and required entry format, please visit www.stairways.org. All entries must be submitted complete by no later than Monday, March 2, 2009, 12 noon EST. Voting will commence online in April.

SMA

Sandpearl Resort

Sandpearl Resort

Benefit from Attending
- Learn the latest industry trends and services;
- Gain access to economic forecasts specifically geared toward the stair industry;
- Improve your profitability;
- Get tips and instruction on how to improve your business;
- Gain one-on-one time with peers;
- Network with other members of the industry from around the country;
- See the latest in new products and services; and
- Get the chance to converse with your suppliers and or potential suppliers one-on-one.

Register Online Today!

Who Should Attend?
You should attend the SMA Annual Conference if you are involved with any of the following:
- Manufacture stairs or components;
- General contractor/homebuilder;
- Install stairs and/or rail systems;
- Distribute stair parts;
- Import stair related products;
- Perform other service or products not directly related to stairs; and/or
- Represent manufacturers.

Seminars

Presentations

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