A Season of Thanks

I had the pleasure this week to write “thank you” notes to the NPCA Associate members that participate as sponsors for The Precast Show. Many of these companies also sponsor our Annual Convention in the fall. I’m always pleasantly amazed at the names I recognize over and over again … those companies whose commitment and contributions to our industry and our association ensures that our meetings, events, training and programming maintains excellence on all levels! Many thanks to our generous sponsors for their continued support of NCPA and the precast concrete industry!

Once again, The Precast Show promises to be an excellent show, complete with strong educational and training programs. There will be a few new twists that will keep things exciting! It’s been quite interesting to be as involved in the preparation for The Precast Show as I have been the last few months. It’s truly amazing just how much preparation and work goes into making The Precast Show the incredible success that it is! My hats off to the NPCA staff for their hard work and hustle. They do an amazing job.

I certainly hope to see YOU and many of your business associates in Indianapolis in January, and I do hope you plan to attend some of the various committee meetings that will take place during the week. Our committees are engaged in new, innovative and exciting work that helps further our industry and mission, and meetings are open to all NPCA members. There are exciting opportunities for Producer members to “step up to excellence” as well by joining a committee, task force or volunteering for a position on the Board. As longtime NPCA advocate Bob Waterloo often says: “You get out of an association what you put into it.” A very heartfelt “thank you” to all our volunteer leaders and your companies for your commitment. There are plenty more areas that need work, and plenty of spots that need volunteers, so please get involved in 2013. Call the NPCA office if you are interested and we’ll find a place for you!

It’s so hard to believe that we’re approaching the end of another calendar year and the kickoff of another Precast Show! Calvin Coolidge, 30th President of the United States said, “Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” That message applies to Christmas, Chanukah, Boxing Day, Kwanzaa, Los Posadas…whatever holiday we may celebrate! As we wind down 2012 and look forward to a New Year and new opportunities, I hope that you will carry with you the spirit of the season and I wish you, your families and employees a most joyous and peaceful Holiday Season! Happy New Year!

Chairman, National Precast Concrete Association