Hi Everyone
This was one of the best Coverings that I've attended in a long time!
Don't get me wrong, I always enjoy the tradeshows that I attend, but there was something special about this one.
I attended 15 out of the 20 classes I signed up for, plus attended a good portion of the ANSI meeting, and part of the NTCA Technical Committee meeting.
It was so nice to meet many new people, and see many that I have known for years. I'm sorry I missed meeting Rod, but I'm grateful to speak with him online and see his ongoing ideas become a reality. It was also a pleasure to meet Mark, and see him presented with a well earned award.
My trip up from Phoenix (after visiting my dad) was really special with spending time with Carole and Hope at Hoover Dam. I lost count of how many times we crossed the AZ and NV border.
Both of these ladies were such a pleasure to have fun with and spend time with, I was left speechless (well for a short nano second). Getting to know them personally, and what their goals are looking forward was very inspiring.
I liked how the show floor was laid out, with the escalators in the middle, which allowed simple access to jump to various exhibits both upstairs and downstairs.
Attending the Happy Hours & Awards Ceremonies for both the MIA, and NTCA, along with seeing the Tile Showcases, and the ACT testing live was a real treat.
Night life in Vegas isn't all about the casinos and gambling. Walking the strip, running into every character imaginable, seeing the water show at the Bellagio, the Volcano erupt at the Mirage, and probably my favorite was The Freemont Street Experience. Thank you Shaun!
Every morning came earlier, and each night lasted longer. My pedometer app on my phone progressively set new records every day.
I want to personally thank The John Bridge Forum in its entirety for how far they have brought me from when I first joined just over 11 years ago. If I had not joined and participated, I would never have taken the opportunity to attend Coverings, or to fully enjoy everything that these trade shows and training sessions have to offer.
A small note to those who don't think they have the time or the finances to break out of their busy schedules to attend. This year I didn't think I would make it because of the same reasons. I spent a lot of time researching to find the best deals to make it affordable. I took a risk. I was in the beginning of a new job with a new client who had their tenants bath torn up. My client was more than understanding to allow me the time to break away from their project for over 10 days. I will say they were happy to see me return back to work this morning.
Plan it, schedule it, and it will become a reality!
End of Readers Digest version.
Senior Contributor
