Just wondering who has signed up?  I can't seem to find a list of vendors that will be there... just conference schedules?

Not sure they have a list yet. I was curious as well. Are you going Kelsey?

Posted By Andy Graves on 30 Aug 2011 11:48 PM
Not sure they have a list yet. I was curious as well. Are you going Kelsey?

I doubt it,   I've been going to KBIS and IWF.  However, if i see a pretty good showing of exhibitors I might start going back.  Not sure why they don't have a list up ...

I couldn't find the list either.

Posted By Andy Graves on 31 Aug 2011 10:14 AM
I couldn't find the list either.

Humm... the responses to this thread is  like ICE....

In order to break the ICE, we'll be there in Booth #300
GEMSTONE

That's cool.

I look forward to seeing all of you that attend.

It's likely that if they had a significant signup of vendors, they'd be promoting the fact. I'm guessing the shrinking trend will continue in relation to the economy.

party in Vegas...Rich is there is enough of a reason for me to go...all others are a bonus...even if they dont get alot of vendors...so what...the seminars and meeting of friends we aint met yet...thats the kewl stuff..I say this every year..put one piece of scrap aside and call it the vegas remanant...add up what it costya at the show...and sell the remnant for that much..than when ya come back cash in on all them vendor discount coupons from Rich...and the tips you may learn on what others are selling...who knows..Im wrapping this trip up for 750.00...I also am bringing peanut butter n jelly sandwiches and staying away from slot machines..so how much does it really cost to go to the show...oh yeah..shop shutdown stuff, um..i dont know..but i understand..its tuff out there

Geez,

I am jammed up with projects in the Orient, so I can't attend. I am going miss seeing all of you! I haven't been to the show since 09.

Hmmm, maybe I can make it 2012!  (keeping my  fingers crossed)!

Hey Gene,

I think it cost a significant amount for many to go. I live on the west coast so it is reasonable and I will probably go. For those on the east coast, I am sure it can get very expensive.

I hope the list of vendors is long, it is always good to see what's new.

Posted By Len Smith on 01 Sep 2011 01:42 PM
It's likely that if they had a significant signup of vendors, they'd be promoting the fact. I'm guessing the shrinking trend will continue in relation to the economy.

I bet you are right Len.

Last show i went to, the sheet manufacturers were not there. I now go to KBIS to see all of them and their new products.

Jon..thats awesome..Im doing another perspective about the Green market and Inlays..I hope mine dont overlap ur class..look forward to seeing you my friend

Jon, do you have a list of the exhibitors that you could possibly email?

Class list would be useful. Can you post it or email?

Here you go Andy

Thursday 1:00pm - 2:00pm	Organizing an Effective Grass Roots Professional Networking System	Presenters: Todd Werstler, Tower Industries, Michael Bustin, Meld USA	This session will teach you how to use ISFA as a resource to develop and enhance your professional network. There will be discussion regarding getting the most out of attending ISFA trade shows and local meetings, and using the ISFA website as a tool to better your business through communication with other ISFA members.
	ISFA's Mentoring Program Pays Off	Moderator: Russ Lee, Panelist: Ted Sherritt, FloForm Countertops, Mike Langenderfer, The Countertop Shop, LTD, Laurie Baldwin, Solid Fabrications, Inc., Dave Paxton, Paxton Countertops, Bruce Akins, Innovative Surfaces, Inc.	Hear from Mentors and Mentees that have gone through the ISFA Program what impact the program has had on their businesses, from changes in approach to product mix, pricing, sales, marketing and other areas of their business and personal lives.
	How to Setup an Effective Retail Showroom	Presenter: Mark Lauzon, Denali Stone Slab Studio	Find out how to set up an effective retail showroom on a budget.
	Using Green to Maximize Profits	Presenter: Gene McDonald, Refresh Interiors	Find out all you need to know about offering green products, and what it can mean for your business, from how to market green to your customers, to how to make green products a profitable segment of your business.
	Beyond Countertops, Don't Leave Money on the Table	Presenter: Max Isley, Hampton Kitchens of Raleigh, Inc.	Although your bread and butter might be countertops, the dessert is often the extras. You’ll be amazed at the potential profits when you stop looking at upgrades, backsplashes, sinks, accessories and other creative applications as distractions and turn them into low overhead gold mines.
Thursday 2:15pm - 3:15pm	Using Technology to Improve Your Business	Presenter: Harry Hollander, Moraware	Can employing better technology improve your business? This discussion provides a cost/benefit analysis that examines using technology in your business, where to start and when to jump to the next level.
	Panel Discussion- Social Networking 101	Leader: Jon Olson, Sterling Surfaces Panelist: Christine Johnson, DuPont Surfaces, Craig Francisco, L.E. Smith	Are people following your business on Twitter, but you haven’t a clue how to tweet? This panel of experts will show you easy steps to setup and maintain Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter, what resources are available, the do’s and don’ts of social media, and why it is important for your business to participate in social networking. This discussion will include inspiring success stories that will illustrate the power of using social media, and how it can benefit your business.
	Profit in a Highly Competitive Marketplace	Presenter: Aaron Crowley, Granite Concepts Inc.	Discover how implementing four core competencies into your business can help it become more successful.
	How to Become a First Class Customer Service Organization	Presenter: Amy Miller, L.E. Smith	Learn how to create a customer service culture within your business. This discussion will include communication techniques and managing expectations.
	Achieving Success in the Commercial Channel	Presenter: Russ Berry, A.S.S.T.	Learn from a successful commercial fabricator and his architect the ins and outs of becoming a successful commercial fabricator, from establishing relationships to the commercial process; if you are interested in becoming involved in commercial fabrication, this is the conference for you.
Thursday 3:30pm - 4:30pm	Less Chaos - More Cash	Presenter: Aaron Crowley, Crowley’s Granite Concepts, Inc.	Do you spend more time putting out fires than growing your business? Does your business struggle to deliver its products on time? Is it plagued by costly mistakes? If so, you must attend this seminar where author and small business owner, Aaron J Crowley, explains a revolutionary PROcess™ for reducing confusion and improving profits in any small business.
	Panel Discussion- Does Diversification into Other Surfaces Make Sense for My Business?	Panelists: Dave Paxton, Paxton Countertops, Mory Ludwick, Premier Countertops	Hear and discuss with Panelists some of the advantages of diversifying into stone, concrete, laminate, thermoforming or other applications, including discussions on if it makes sense for your business and the use of your existing equipment or channels to increase revenue and profits in the coming years.
	How to Create a Bullet Proof Templating Process	Presenter: Dan Louis, Laser Products	This session will provide an overview of effective templating processes and some of the options available. You will also learn how to develop a templating process that ensures you get all the information required to meet your customer’s expectations the first time and not leave success to chance.
	Follow these 4 Steps to Develop an Effective Strategic Marketing Plan	Presenter: Tony Leff, Surecrete Design Products	Learn how implementing online awareness, community awareness, advertising and database management can help you create an effective marketing plan for your business.
	Keys to Avoiding Insurance Pitfalls and Transferring Risk	Presenter: Marc Rosenkrantz, Schechner Lifson Corp.	Are you or your company at risk? Find out from a professional if your insurance coverage is adequate for your company or if you are leaving yourself vulnerable. This discussion includes money saving tips on how you can transfer risk to protect your company.
Friday 8:30am - 9:45am	Panel Discussion- Top Ten Industry Trends	Moderator: Kevin Cole, ISFA Panelists: Lane Mangum, Concrete Countertop Institute, Jon Olson, Sterling Surfaces, Evan Kruger, Solid Tops, Inc., Mike Lallo, Wilsorart, Dan Louis, Laser Products	Discover the latest trends in the surfacing industry: what new products are available, and what new applications can be applied to existing products. Discussion includes solid surface, concrete, laminate, glass and vitreous products, plus a new perspective on templating and improving your company’s exposure.
	Effectively Market your Business to Architects and Designers	Presenter: Grant Garcia, Sterling Surfaces	If you’re serious about commercial work, you need to be part of the A& D community. No one works with architects and designers better than Sterling Surfaces. Grant Garcia shares some down-to-earth methods for cultivating those all important relationships.
	Thermoforming - The Differentiator for Solid Surface	Presenters: Martin Funck, Rosskopf & Partner AG, Russ Berry, A.S.S.T.	Learn from two of the best in the business how thermoforming can take your solid surface business from ordinary to extraordinary and improve your bottom line in the process.
	Learn How to Affordably Manage your Customers & Prospects in 2012	Presenter: John Kolencik	Discover how to effectively and inexpensively target prospects and deepen customer relationships. You will learn proven lead generation techniques and how best to combine with the latest CRM (customer relationship management) technology. This session includes discussion of a step-by-step lead generation approach; a compare and contrast of the latest CRM resources; and what will work for your business, no matter the size.
	Kaizen - Lean Manufacturing and the Power of Continuous Improvement	Presenter: Craig Francisco, L.E. Smith Company	Find out how implementing Kiazen – The process of continuous improvement, can enhance all of your business processes, improve employee moral and eliminate waste. This session includes information that you can implement in your business right away to begin improving employee performance, company moral and the bottom line.
11:00am - 12:00pm	Working with Recycled Glass and Vitreous Products	Presenter: Evan Kruger, Solid Tops	Green products are in demand all over the country. Find out how to work with the newest recycled glass and vitreous products to increase your product inventory and profitability.
	Concrete Countertops	Presenter: Kirk Olsen, Envision Concrete Countertops	Watch as a bucket of concrete transforms into a beautiful and utilitarian work of art in the hands of a master-craftsman.
1:00pm - 2:00pm	Engineered Stone Repair	Presenter: Dr. Fredrick M. Hueston	Find out how to repair engineered stone from one of the industries most respected stone specialist.
	Concrete Countertop Sealants	Presenter: Jeff Girard	The sealant can make or break a concrete countertop. This clinic will show you the do’s and don’ts of sealing concrete and how to get the finish you are looking for.
	Inlay Techniques	Presenter: Gene McDonald	Learn from the master how to create unique and beautiful inlays that can add to your bottom line.
2:15pm - 3:15pm	Seaming Concrete	Presenter: Kirk Olsen, Envision Concrete Countertops	Find out the secret to seamlessly seaming concrete.
	Setting up a Successful Stone Shop – Hope is not a Business Plan™	Presenter: Mark Lauzon, Denali Stone Slab Studios	Find out what you need to know to enter the stone business. This session includes a case study with remarkable results.
	The Break Even Point	Presenter: Chuck Sawyer	Understanding the concept of the Break Even Point can make the difference between failure and profitability. This is a must attend clinic for anyone who is struggling, or simply wants to increase their bottom line.
Saturday 8:30am - 9:45am	Leverage your Existing Operations to Expand Business Opportunities and Raise Profit Margins in 2012	Presenter: Christina Marie Humiston, Block Tops	Find out how to identify your company’s core competencies, and leverage your existing strengths to expand your business to become more profitable.
	Introduction to Concrete Countertops - Everything you need to know about Concrete Countertops	Presenter: Jeff Girard, Concrete Countertop Institute	What does it take to make concrete countertops? Learn from an industry leader all you need to know about setting up a concrete countertop shop, from shop setup to what tools you’ll need and where you can find them.
	Keys to Successful Business Succession Planning	Moderator: David Paxton, Paxton Countertops Panelists: Marc Rosenkrantz, Schechner Lifson Corp., Jack Hussey, Jack’s Custom Woodworking (JCW), Matt Klein, Klein's Custom Countertops	Are you getting ready to pass your business on to the next generation? This select group of panelist can tell you, it is not quite as simple as you might think. Find out from those who are going, or have gone through the process what to expect. This discussion will include understanding the reality of different skill sets and perceptions.
	LEED Projects 101	Presenter: Chuck Sawyer, Basix International	Find out more about LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and how to qualify your projects for this environmental conscious designation.
	Value Analysis: Cost Justifying Capital Expenditures	Presenter: Bob Paradiso	Is now the right time to purchase additional software, or machinery? Find out the formula for evaluating when to make those expensive purchases based on a value analysis cost vs. growth as it relates to your business.
11:00am - 12:00pm	TFT/Advanced Teaser	Presenter: Mike Noland, Windbound Co.	This hands-on demonstration will teach you a little bit about what your association is teaching and how attending a four-day session may help you raise your profitability.
	ADA Compliance	Presenter: Chuck Sawyer	Are your projects ADA Compliant? This clinic provides information on the Americans with Disabilities Act and how to make sure all of your practices are compliant.
	Better Safe Than Sorry	Presenters: George Mallinckrodt, R.S. Hughes, Matt Howard, Saw Stop	Learn the ins and outs of safety to make sure your shop is compliant should OSHA come knocking on your door. This clinic also features tips of safety practices when using cutting tools in the shop.
2:00pm - 3:00pm	Shop Talk - Sanding Techniques	Presenters: Sanding Tools, Abrasive, and Polishing Exhibitors	Learn from manufacturers the best sanding and polishing techniques for their sanders, abrasives and polishes. This hands-on demo allows attendees to ‘try before you buy.'
	Laminate Countertop Flush Mount Sinks	Presenter: Aaron Walz, L.E. Smith Company	Learn the best techniques to use when flush mounting sinks to laminate countertops.
	TFT Stone Teaser	Presenter: Dr. Fredrick M. Hueston	Find out from Dr. Fred more about the new Stone Fabrication TFT class that your association is offering.

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