Have you ever wondered about the committees that guide your association? Interested in knowing more about upcoming events and relevant issues? Thinking about getting more involved? You'll definitely want to attend NBMDA's committee meetings, which offer the opportunity not only to observe, but also to participate in discussion.

All members are invited to attend any committee meeting as a guest.

Membership Segment Roundtable Discussions
Thursday, November 6
Roundtable discussion sessions provide segment members an opportunity to come together with those members who are serving the same customer base and/or handling a similar product mix as your firm in order to discuss specific issues and topics impacting the marketplace. These sessions feature informal discussion opportunities within small groups. Both distributors and manufacturers are invited to fully participate.

Downstream Marketing Success Stories to be Featured at Roundtable Sessions
The entire 2003 discussion session will be devoted to the important topic of downstream marketing to the architect and specifier by "specialists" employed by distributors and manufacturers. The session will feature a panel of firms who have been successful in deploying various types of sales specialists to call upon this important audience. Panelists may include a product specialists, field sales specialist and a merchandise specialist. Watch for further details!

Manufacturer-Hosted Distributor Advisory Council Meetings
Wednesday, November 5
Saturday, November 8
Several manufacturers are planning to host "Distributor Advisory Meetings" in conjunction with the 2003 Annual Convention. These manufacturers will take advantage of the concentration of distributors traveling to the convention by hosting their own corporate meeting designed to cover such items as new product introductions, new pricing programs and 2004 marketing programs and strategies. Ask your supplier if they are planning to host such a meeting. Manufacturers looking for assistance in planning their meeting should contact Kevin Gammonley (kgammonley@sba.com) in the NBMDA office.

Spouse/Guest Events

While you're busy attending the events of the day, your spouse or guest is invited to participate in any of NBMDA's planned activities that will explore the cultural riches that the Orlando area has to offer. The spouse/guest registration fee includes the following: two (2) breakfasts, the Thursday Awards Luncheon, Thursday Spouse/Guest Program, the Exhibitor-hosted Welcome Reception, the Friday Spouse/Guest Tour and Luncheon and the President's Reception and Dinner.

Social Activities

Book Club Discussion
Thursday, November 6
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Each spouse/guest that registers for the Convention will be sent a book to read which has been selected by the spouses on the Convention Planning Committee. The book will be a quick-read to ensure that everyone will have sufficient time to complete it prior to the function. The group will gather for breakfast in a comfortable setting to openly discuss and critique the book. Participation is optional. This is a fun and creative way to meet new people and engage in stimulating conversation.

Neiman Marcus Fashion Show, Brunch & more!
Friday, November 7
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
NBMDA and Neiman Marcus have partnered to deliver a unique outing that includes a combination brunch/fashion show, presentations on skin care techniques and cosmetic highlights, make-overs and shopping. Start your day off with brunch and fashion as models mingle with guests while displaying the fashions and styles of the upcoming season. Then learn about the latest skin care techniques and products, and cosmetic highlights and tips during two private demonstrations for NBMDA's guests. Following the presentations, you'll have the opportunity to visit the make-up counters to test the products and get a quick make-over before starting your shopping at Neiman Marcus.

Exhibitor-Hosted Welcome Reception
Thursday, November 6
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The popular Welcome Reception is held in the exhibit hall, providing an excellent opportunity to interact with current and potential trading partners in a relaxed, casual atmosphere. Exhibitors will be in their booths to welcome distributors and finalize appointment schedules for the following day of conference sessions. Dress is business casual.

President's Reception & Dinner
Friday, November 7
6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
The event will take place in the spectacular Skyview Room located atop of Bally's (connected to the Paris Las Vegas). The room provides a spectacular view of the Las Vegas strip and thus plays host to many exclusive events. The theme is simple: Elegance. Entertainment will include live music, magic and more! The dress for the evening is coat and tie for the men and cocktail attire for women.

NBMDA's Education Foundation Raffle

Founded in 1987, the NBMDA Education Foundation is dedicated to the advancement of distribution in the building material industry. It works to connect industry research, education and training with competitive business strategies. At this year's convention, the Education Foundation will raffle off a grand prize of $10,000 to one lucky winner. Be sure to buy your raffle tickets for a chance to win and an opportunity to support the valuable educational programming offered through the Foundation. You will not find better odds in Las Vegas!

Schedule of Events
Education
Attendees