| My thoughts on Stone Expo (for what it's worth)
The show was GREAT! Hanley Wood and the MIA did a superb job on all aspects of the show and the location is out of this world. No machines? My ass, the place was packed with exhibitors and attendees. I was there every day but Saturday (had to leave early to prep for the storm) and the place was packed each day. Below is my opinion based on the seminars and discussions I experienced;
Wednesday
The pre show 3 hour workshops - I was surprised at how many people were there, I figured there would be a small turn out since the show did not start until the following day.
Stealth Marketing Workshop - AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can not wait to implement some of the ideas and speak further with the speakers.
Strategic Fabricators Forum - Very informative on how to work with the big box stores.
The Show - Attendance was jumpin and most exhibitors were busy.
Thursday
Understanding CNC Technology - The announcer was terrible (me ) but Bob from Northwood made up for my short commings. very informative.
Understanding the Cost of Your Business - This was a pretty good seminar for fundamental basics in accounting. Anyone with a vast knowledge of accounting (not I) would/was not interested in the course.
Kitchen Installations (Show Foor Demo) - I did not see the demo myself, but from what I heard from several people that seen the demo it was pretty funny. Next time they should get a real installer to do the install.
The Show - Once again, the attendance was jumpin and most exhibitors were busy. The machine suppliers that had machines were busy, the ones that did not, not to busy (hope the other "show" works out for them ).
MIA Gala - As always, well planned and a great time.
THE UNOFFICIAL AFTER PARTY WAS OFF THE HOOK. WE GOT IN AROUND 5AM. WHAT A NIGHT
Friday
Efficient Shop Layout - Head was bashed, did not make it to that one
Fabricators Forum - As always, not long enough, extremely informative and a very good turn out. My thoughts, 2 hours, everyday and open discussion. A few years ago at Coverings there were several round tables set up where we discussed issues around the table and around the room, this was an excellent forum. Need to have a way where the audience is not just asking the questions but answring them a little more as well. Not that there was anything wrong with the panel, they did a very good job.
Pinnacle Awards Luncheon - Great presentation and well layed out. My hat is truly off to Mr. Cohen (the much deserved recipient of the Migliori award) and his family. I hope that I can be half as beneficial to our industry as this great man has been.
The Show - Once again, the attendance was jumpin and most exhibitors were busy.
Stone Expo Reception - Great turnout, had a blast.
Binions Steakhouse - Whoa, that was a prime rib, thanks again Joe (Stoneboy).
Saturday
I have to leave early, damn hurricanes
From start to finish this was a great show (best Expo I have attended). To the folks at the; Renaissance (my hotel), Hanley Woods, the MIA and the Las Vegas Convention Center, two thumbs up.
For those of you that could not make it, definately plan to attend next year.
For those of you who do not see the need to go to a trade show, good luck with that. The industry changes by leaps and bounds every year. How can you stay competitive if you do not know what is going on around you.
For those of you that I had a chance to meet, it was great to finally meet you and to put a face to the name. Let's double the turnout (and the fun) next year!
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Brian Briggs, SFA | 
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