Thank you to Jim Valesano and the Lighting Center staff for sponsoring our March hors d'oeuvres meeting at their beautiful facility last night, and to Waara Technologies for sharing their lovely space as well.  It was a wonderful evening of networking and learning.  Of note was the positive outlook presented during the Builder Forum by Bob Reamer of IRR who shared some significantly positive statistics about recent surges in the housing sales in our region.  Appreciation also goes to Rob Whims of Smith-Johnson Attorneys, PC who helped us better understand some of the current pitfalls of the industry.  Thanks, too, to Nick Agostinelli, Legislative Chair for arranging the visit and Q & A with Congressman Camp's Chief Political Aide.  I am optimistic that this economic engine will be picking up steam in the coming months. 
 
As I was penning my message to you today, I received an enthusiastic call from another EXPO vendor.  This company representative called to say, "Thank You" to the HBA and the EXPO Committee for sponsoring such a quality show recently.  She was thrilled with the sales leads and the people who stopped by their booth.   We talked about the importance of getting your name out in front of the public, especially now with the number of tax incentives available for today's home buyers and remodelers!  She wondered why people wouldn't participate - it was such a great opportunity.
 
Interestingly, many naysayers suggested in advance that this EXPO wouldn't be well attended and that few would be interested in buying.  This prediction turned out to be totally false!  It was a terrific event and a great value to both our vendors and guests. With that lesson learned (about staying positive), we turn now to our summer showcase, the 2009 Parade of Homes & Developments.  This, too, is going to be very successful!  Our Parade Committee has worked diligently to enhance participation this year.  Where else can your company receive such extensive exposure for the investment?
 
To encourage builder participation and to make it more affordable, we have reduced the builder and developer application fee to a flat rate of $1500.  The deadline for Parade applications and advertising has also been extended until April 17th.  Advertising costs for the Parade Plan Book have been reduced considerably in order to ensure the broadest representation of our members in the publication.  In addition, those who place full page ads will also be entitled to additional banner sponsor advertising once a month for six months in the Tuesday Toolbox.  The plan book pages will also turn gracefully one by one on our new website.  This electronic version will be posted for a year so the advertising value for our builders and associates extends beyond the event itself.
 
We hope you will consider participating this year in some way - as a builder, supplier or advertiser.  Lots of folks do have the resources and are interested in buying or remodeling. We're not going to let any pessimist "Rain on Our Parade!"

Together, we are building a better future!