PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE John L. Willers, RRC, FRCI, PE President 2 • I N T E R F A C E A P R I L /MA Y 2 0 0 8 As in the past, our annual convention was a great success. I always enjoy the trade show, where I can obtain a lot of information. Specifically, I can speak with manufacturers’ personnel about technical items much more easily than by telephone. Also, I can learn about manufacturers’ newest products. I must discipline myself to visit those booths about which I have a preset attitude that they have nothing to offer me. What I discover by visiting these booths is that I am glad that I did, because I invariably learn something new. And that is why I went to the trade show – to learn, not just to snack on the food or to visit with old friends. Talk about learning something new – the educational sessions were excellent. I only wish I were able to attend all of them. They addressed all of the kinds of services I provide to my customers and then some. Presentations included such topics as energy efficiencies, concrete repair, waterproofing, photovoltaics, building envelope, wind, fluid-applied flashings, air barriers, tapered insulation, roof failures, being an expert witness, and even how to transfer ownership of my business when I retire. In spite of the busy schedule, I had plenty of time to talk with old friends and to make some new ones. I have learned that these connections are valuable when I need to consult with someone outside of my firm. This is easily done by calling a member who may work two thousand miles away. Friends do not hesitate to share their experiences. Also, during the convention I was able to get an update of what friends’ children are doing and, for those who have “been around for a while,” I could inquire about their grandchildren, too. There were events that had nothing to do with work that were simply fun. I played golf with friends and attended the hospitality suites where there was plenty of food, music, games, and Asian dance demonstrations. During our opening ceremony, we were entertained by an artist, and our guest speaker, Charlie Cook, provided insight into the current political campaigning (old news by now). There was great food and entertainment at our annual banquet, including the presentation of some special gifts to our retiring president, Pat Downey, and flowers for his wife, Donna. Also, it was great to see 200 members participate at our annual meeting of the members. I would like once more to offer thanks to the many companies that sponsor the convention each year. Special thanks go to this year’s platinum sponsors: Carlisle SynTec, Inc.; Chemical Design Corporation; Firestone Building Products; GAF Materials Corporation; Georgia-Pacific Gypsum Corporation; Johns Manville; Sika Sarnafil, a Division of Sika Corporation; Siplast; Thaler Metal Industries; and Tremco, Inc. Have you attained all of your CEHs for this year? Convention attendees had no trouble in racking these up, and they had fun in the process. If you missed the convention, you will still be able to benefit by reading the summaries of the sessions that are published on the following pages. For more detailed information, visit the RCI Web site (www.rcionline. org) and order a copy of the proceedings of the convention. Finally, keep in mind that this convention was also a celebration of 25 years of service to our members. If you were not there, order a copy of the RCI Silver Anniversary Report summarizing our history, beginning with the great idea Bob Lyons had that sparked the start of RCI. Bob, wish you were there, and get well soon. John L. Willers, RRC, FRCI, PE
