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President's Letter:
Mark Krause, ICCFA President for 2008-2009
ICCFA's conventions buzz with energy
Another convention has come and gone. San Diego is a beautiful city and the convention center and hotel were first class. Our meeting attendance continues to be very positive, while other trade groups are finding shrinking attendance a challenge. As the new president, I had a different perspective this time, and I think I will never look at our convention in quite the same way again.
After sitting back and reviewing everything from the week we had in San Diego, there are three things I know. First, there is an energy and buzz at our convention, from attendees and suppliers alike, not felt at other gatherings in our profession. I get the sense that the people who attend our convention are looking for possibilities, opportunities and a glimpse into the entrepreneurial future of death care. You never hear groups of people complaining about how things are no longer how they used to be, but rather talking about what is next, new and exciting.
Second, I know how much all of us appreciate and respect the relationship we have with the supplier members of the ICCFA. Our suppliers contribute a great deal of time, energy and educational opportunities, as well as a ton of resources to make the ICCFA Convention the rising star in our profession. It was nice to hear that our suppliers do not feel taken advantage of or perceive a sense of entitlement from the other members and the association. One of our goals is to make sure our conventions are the most supplier friendly in death care.
Third, our staff is outstanding. All of us benefit from a hard working, dedicated staff that creates a seamless convention experience. The behind-the-scenes work that goes into a gathering of the size we need is amazing. The professionalism and expertise of the staff handling our conventions each year assures that things will be done right. With this continuity come high expectations combined with wonder each year about how we're going to top the just completed convention next year. The planning for 2009 has already started; the Program Committee is well on its way to hitting another one out of the park. So plan now to be in Las Vegas April 20-23, 2009.
In the meantime, I will be seeing many of you at various state or regional meetings over the next few months. I urge you to introduce yourself and let me know your thoughts about our profession, the ICCFA and the issues that affect your business. The actions the ICCFA leadership take are often a result of your comments.
Mark Krause
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