You’re INVITED!

2012 CFASummer Convention

July 26-28, 2012

Traverse City, Michigan

Risk v

s. Rewa

rd

2012 CFA Summer ConventionJuly 26-28, 2012 Grand Traverse Resort Acme, Michigan

“This is going to be the COOLEST convention of the summer.” Doug HerbertHerbert Construction Company

CFA Convention -- The only national event dedicated solely to the interests of the concrete sub-contractor with focus on residential and commercial poured concrete walls…AND NOW SLABS!

2012 CFA Summer ConventionJuly 26-28, 2012 Grand Traverse Resort Acme, Michigan

This year’s Convention is all about risk and the reward that can come from it.

There are risks to your business right now...the CFA is working hard to provide programming and information to isolate you from these risks.

There are risks you can take to be above the rest...the CFA is providing ways for you to step out above the competition.

There are risks of not recognizing trends...the CFA keeps you informed and focused on where industry is going.

How can you reward your company in the face or risks?

Get to the Summer Convention and receive those rewards.

EXHIBITOR/SPONSOR INFORMATIONContact Jim Baty by email at jbaty@cfawalls.org or by phone at 866-CFA-WALL

SPONSORED BY

Risk vs. Reward Concrete Foundations AssociationTM

of North America

SLABS: We’ve Got You Covered

SCHEDULE

9:00am-10:00am Moisture Problems in Slabs Bryce Skeeters, Stego Industries10:00am-10:15am Break10:15am-12:15pm Finishing Interior and Exterior Slabs Kim Bashum, KB Engineering12:15pm-1:30pm Lunch on Own1:30pm-3:15pm Crack Control in Slabs Kim Bashum, KB Engineering3:15pm-3:30pm Break3:30pm-4:30pm Fibers for Slabs Jim Ozuk, Forta Corporation

1-Day PRE-CONVENTION SEMINAR - July 26

Thursday, July 26 at the Grand Traverse Resort Acme, Michigan

Join us at Michigan’s Resort Grand Traverse $50/person (lunch on your own)

The Concrete Foundations Association has expanded its program offerings for the 2012 Summer Convention by adding another day (Thursday, July 26) on slabs. We recognize that many of you are involved in the installation of slabs-on-ground whether it is basement slabs, driveways, sidewalks or commercial slabs and parking lots. Constructing a quality concrete slab is a lot more complicated than simply putting concrete on a gravel base. If you install slabs, you should do it correctly.

We have several great presentations lined up for this day of education. Kim Basham, a regular presenter at the World of Con-crete, will be the primary presenter for the event. He will cover ‘Crack Control’, ‘Finishing Exterior Slabs’ and ‘Finishing Interior Slabs,’ as well as related topics on slab construction. We will also have presentations on ‘Moisture Control in Slabs’ and ‘Fibers for Slabs.’

From empty lot...to quality Slab

-Sponsored by-

MOISTURE PROBLEMS IN SLABSMoisture-related problems are said to cost the US Construction market upwards of one billion dollars each year in damage, repairs, and litiga-tion. Moisture Control in Slabs will encompass the problems associated with excess moisture and humidity from the ground, the science be-hind moisture vapor migration, a summary of the leading standards and industry recommendations, and a discussion on installation techniques

FINISHING INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SLABSTo achieve high-quality steel troweled or broomed slabs, you must understand the finishing steps and the “window of finishability.” Topics covered include: how to identify the “window of finish-ability” and how jobsite conditions can either lengthen or shorten this window, how to achieve flatter floors, why premature finishing causes surface defects, why overworking the surface should always be avoided, and how to overcome the challenges associated with bleed rates versus evaporation rates. After this presentation, you’ll understand how to avoid surface defects, call-backs and expensive repairs caused by improper finishing.

CRACK CONTROL IN SLABSNobody likes random cracks, especially in new concrete slabs on grade. In this presentation, you’ll learn what causes out-of-joint dry/thermal shrinkage cracks. More importantly, you’ll learn how to develop a crack control philosophy and design to minimize random cracking in slabs. Hear about concrete shrinkage and restraints, tensile stresses, designing and installing contraction joints and load transfer across joints. After this presentation, you’ll be better equipped to avoid and troubleshoot random cracking in slabs on grade.

FIBERS FOR SLABSThis seminar will present basic information and engineering discussions on both standard-grade and second generation synthetic fibers for concrete. Objectives of the presentation will include:

o An understanding of the four most important fiber characteristics and how they effect performance in concrete.

o Use of a 4-C’s fiber formula to objectively compare fiber types and brands;

o Understanding the two basic performance levels of synthetic fibers: temperature/crack control reinforcement and structural property enhancing reinforcement; and

o Determining appropriate real world applications for both levels of synthetic fiber reinforcement.

Thursday, July 26 at the Grand Traverse Resort Acme, Michigan

IF YOU ARE COMING FOR THE SUMMER CONVENTION, extend your stay forward a day – it will be well worth your while. Pre-Convention Seminar Registration and Convention Registration are separate, so fill out both forms. See Convention Registration Form in this publication.

IF YOU ARE LOCAL, you have two options – come for the day or come for the entire program. CFA contractors are involved in a broad range of concrete operations and the Summer Convention scope reflects that diversity. You will learn something regardless of what segment of the concrete industry you are in.Coming only for the day? Fill out the ONE-DAY REGISTRATION FORM BELOW

o Check (US Funds only) Make checks payable to: Concrete Foundations Association, PO Box 204, Mount Vernon, IA 52314

You may also use a charge card: o Visa o MasterCard o American Express

Name on card ______________________________________________________

Email Address ______________________________________________________

Card number______________________________________Auth Code ________

Expiration Date_______________________ Total $ _______________________

SEND YOUR REGISTRATION FORM TO: Registrations will be accepted through www.cfawalls.org, by fax at 320.213.5556 or by mail to CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS ASSOCIATION, P.O. Box 204, Mount Vernon, IA 52314 Please do not phone your reservation to us. Registration can be processed with credit cards through the fax, mail and internet at www.cfawalls.org. Company checks are acceptable to the Concrete Foundations Association through the mail (U.S. funds only).

For multiple registrants, please use a duplicate form, register online or contact us for listing of persons.

CANCELLATIONS $10 Cancellation Fee per individual. Substitutions are acceptable. No refunds will be given for non-attendance.

CONTACT INFO www.cfawalls.org or call toll-free 1-866-232-9255Contact is Jim Baty, Technical Director,jbaty@cfawalls.org

ATTENDEE NAME ____________________________________________________________________

Company ___________________________________________________________________________

Mailing Address _____________________________________________________________________

City __________________________________________ State__________Zip ____________________

Phone______________________________________ Fax_____________________________________

Email _______________________________________________________________________________

o Seminar Only.........$50

ONE-DAY REGISTRATION FORM PRE-CONVENTION SEMINAR ‘SLABS: WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED’ JULY 26, 2012

THURSDAY - JULY 26 6:00am CFA Board of Directors Meeting, Open 9:00am - 4:30pm One-Day Pre-Convention Seminar -- “Slabs: We’ve Got You Covered” 5:00pm - 6:00pm Opening Exhibitor Reception 6:00pm - 9:00pm Social Event -- Fun Michigan Style Thursday Night Tournaments

FRIDAY - JULY 27 8:00am - 8:30am Welcome to Michigan and to the CFA Annual Meeting 8:15am - 9:00am Speed Networking CFA Style 9:00am - 10:15am Unionization -- David Whitlock 10:15am - 11:30am Employer/Employee Traps -- Scott Smith 11:30am - 1:30pm Lunch with Exhibitors 1:30pm - 2:45pm Low-Cost Marketing Secrets -- Doug Herbert 2:00pm - 4:00pm Make Your Own AFPP Kit -- Mary Wilson 5:00pm - 6:00pm Closing Exhibitor Reception 6:00pm - 9:00pm Social Event -- Dinner Party!

SATURDAY - JULY 28 8:00am - 8:30am Speed Networking - CFA Style 8:30am - 9:30am Achieving Higher Profits Through Production Based

Pay Rates -- Doug Staebler 9:30am - 10:30am CFA Insurance Captive -- Ed Sauter and Tom Hall 10:30am - 12:30pm Technology in the Foundation Business, Panel 12:30pm - 1:30pm CFA Awards Presentation and Keynote Address

with Special Guests 1:30pm - 3:30pm CFA Technician Certification Seminar 3:30pm - 5:30pm CFA Technician Certification Exam -- Jim Baty 6:00pm - 9:00pm Closing Reception & Social Networking (Cash Bar)

Risk vs. Reward2012 CFA Summer ConventionCONVENTION SCHEDULE JULY 26-28

THE SCHEDULE

THURSDAY NIGHT: TOURNAMENTS!A great way to get involved to the fullest at the Annual Summer Convention is to join together in a great evening of fun...Michigan style. Included in all registration fees is this superb evening of food and fun. Hosted on property, all will be encouraged to choose a partner(s) and get involved in one of the many tournaments going on all evening long. We will feature croquet, baggo and bocce ball. There will be youth, adult and mixed divisions for the tournaments and you can play as many times as you wish and as often as you like. Win-ners will come away with “interesting” reminders and a great feeling of relaxed joy. If you’ve never been involved in games like these, they are designed for the inexperienced and cater to social networking environment that becomes the CFA.

FRIDAY NIGHT: DINNER PARTY!Two days down and one to go, that is if you join us for the Slab Conference that starts this year’s Convention week. This evening of “doing it CFA style” is another included meal in your registration fee and will include some of the fine offerings from the Grand Traverse Resort. Their chefs are already planning the tastes for you to enjoy and since there is no better environment than a casual evening of din-ing and talking with others, the rest is up to you. We’re going to get out of the way and let you do what you do best. We’re on property again so you can stay as long as you like, leave when it is necessary and get to all you care to meet.

SATURDAY NIGHT: CFA’S COCKTAILS AND CONVERSATIONSOn Saturday night you are invited to CFA’s Cocktails and Conversa-tions - The Network Event. In a casual, social atmosphere, a cash bar will support your final chance to meet face to face with peers that may be your best resource for the remainder of 2012. For those that stay the duration of our event, you will find no better conclusion to a Convention than our Saturday Night Social. This casual atmosphere places a premium on settling in at a table or two and winding down the conversations for the week or starting one more to add to your already-impressive list of contacts you can count on for the year ahead.

2012 CFA Summer ConventionThe CFA Summer Convention is primarily about education, learning, and networking. In the current economy, you must get significant value from all of your expenditures and it is our goal to make certain that you leave this year’s meeting with enough information and knowledge to pay for the meeting several times over.

We hope all attendees and families will join together at these social events which are included in your Registration Fee.

THE SOCIAL NETWORKING EVENTS

CONVENTION PRESENTERSUnionization – David Whitlock has presented on a number of topics at prior CFA Summer Meetings including Immigration Law and Employees as Sub-Con-tractors. His advice and expertise have saved members thousands of dollars in potential fines and litigation costs and may have even saved some time in the “Big House”. This year he will focus on Unionization – how to legally fight the union-ization efforts. Whitlock’s firm, Elarbee Thompson, specializes in labor law, employ-ment law and immigration practice. David relates well to the contractor audience and his wit and humor make the presentations entertaining as well as informative.

Employer/Employee Traps – Scott Smith will follow-up on the start that David Whitlock gives the Convention with first hand experience at some of the most challenging issues in employer/employee relations. Scott’s Company, Modern Poured Walls, Inc., has survived recent entanglements in wage and hour litiga-tion that will surely be of interest to any member. He will also share strategy for managing attorneys and their fees. Our hope, and Scott’s, is that his experiences may save another member some of the stresses and money that these experiences cost MPW.

Achieving Higher Profits Through Production Based Pay Rates – Doug Staebler has presented at CFA Summer Meetings for the past 8 years (except for two years ago when he had an anniversary or some such excuse). As chief financial officer for Custom Concrete he has inside knowledge on the issues, challenges, and problems faced daily by CFA members. Doug’s presentations are concise, organized, and to-the-point. His will address one of the many ways to improve production of laborers on the jobsite. Managing labor productivity on remote jobsites is a real challenge for contractors. Production based pay rates, or ‘piece rate pay’ base pay rates based on actual production help employees and contractors work together to achieve the highest production possible. We will ex-amine possible applications for foundation contractors, as well as pitfalls to avoid. His mix of content and questions brings a seminar closer to being an interactive brain-storming session that delivers a core of benefit to your business.

Low-Cost Marketing Secrets That Bring In New Customers – Doug Herbert will be sharing his top marketing secrets that cost very little to implement, yet have massive pay-offs for your concrete construction business. He’ll show you how to overcome common objections from prospective customers – and have other people do the selling for you. You’ll discover how to use effective marketing to elevate your company above your competitors without sounding like a braggart or “pushy sales guy.”

Then, you’ll learn how to implement a super-cheap system that will help you increase your sales without having anyone in your company do the selling. Doug will also show you how to easily determine where your leads are coming from. You’ll be able to do more of what works, and less of what doesn’t make the phone ring. You’ll walk away with a template that you can have your office manager im-mediately implement when you get home. You are sure to leave with simple, yet extremely effective marketing tactics that will bring in new customers to your business.

Risk vs. Reward

Make Your Own ‘AFPP’ Kit – Mary Wilson. OSHA will visit your job site in the near future to check compliance with their new Fall Protection directives. If you are not prepared, it will be a costly visit. CFA formalized a Task Force last year to offer members a resource for handling OSHA visits and their results as well as to become better prepared for fall protection regulation. Count-less hours from both staff and members have been allocated to assembling a “kit” for the development of your own Alternative Fall Protection Plan and the resources to support it. If you have a plan in-place when OSHA calls, you have a much greater likelihood of coming out of the meeting unscathed. The solution is not an off-the-shelf plan but rather an outline of the steps you need to take to develop your own solution that will stand-up to OSHA scrutiny.

During this presentation, you are encouraged to bring a plan you have for your company, whether formalized or in draft. This plan will be worked through in comparison with the baseline plan offered by Michel Concrete and those of your peers gathered for this meeting.

The CFA Insurance Captive – Ed Sauter and Tom Hall. This effort has been under development for several years and is potentially the greatest cost saving benefit we have ever offered our members. This is totally different than all the earlier efforts such a group insurance. Self Insurance is a concept that has been used by major corporations, municipalities, hospitals and other savvy businesses for decades and it is the trend of the future. You owe it to your company to learn everything there is to know about the concept and why you should be part of the effort. he CFA Captive is patterned after other success-ful protected risk, self-insurance programs. Particpants in these programs are saving on average 40% on their insurance premiums with fewer exclusions and much better coverage. Representatives of our management team will be pres-ent to answer questions about the program.

Speed Networking – The Members. Our surveys indicate that network-ing, meeting other members and sharing ideas, is still the number one reason why they come to our meetings. Speed Networking, our answer to Speed Dat-ing, lets you renew old acquaintances and establish new network contacts. We will expand the concept this year and organize it better to keep things moving. We want you to walk away with at least 10 new contacts to network with dur-ing your time at Convention and beyond.

Round Tables – The Members. Another angle for networking is ever present in round table discussions. In actuality, every CFA event is a gathering of energetic discussion at a table somewhere. We formalize this just a bit for a portion of schedule and provide some dedicated focus on key topics. As an attendee, you then gain the benefit of the collective room discussion as you move around to each table. Although centered on a focus topic, the table may flip at any time depending on the experience and the need that arises from the lively discussions. You will come away with resources, experiences and new relationships to rely on.

FACTSConcrete WOC & CFA Annual Mtg

Formwork ScaffordBrackets Study

LinkedIn -- What Are You Waiting For?

Concrete Foundations Association • PO Box 204 • Mount Vernon, IA 52314 • (866) 232-9255 • www.cfawalls.org • info@cfawalls.org

Vol. 19No.2

Vol. 19No.2

Where do you stand when itcomes to...

...fall protection?

REGISTRATION NOTES

HOW TO REGISTER •www.cfawalls.org •by fax at 320.213.5556 •or by mail to CONCRETE FOUNDATIONS ASSOCIATION, P.O. Box 204, Mount Vernon, IA 52314

Please do not phone your room reservation to us (see below). Registration can be processed with credit cards through the fax, mail and internet. Company checks (U.S. funds only) are acceptable to the Concrete Foundations Association via the mail.

REGISTRATION FEES INCLUDE Registration this year makes your Convention experience easier to focus on all that the CFA offers by encouraging you to be present during all events. All meals from morning coffee service through dinner are included in your registration fees. There is no open bar at Convention this year. We will provide beer to all receptions and dinners in the form of keg selections and provide cash bars for all other alcohol interests.

Each company will pay a registration fee to be present; this will include the first attending adult. All other adults will register at the same rate whether they are a spouse or guest, attending the meetings and seminars or not. This is an adult meal pass to keep things simple. Children, youth and teens will register with their respective rates covering meal passes for the entire event as well. All meal passes cover our offerings from morning coffee through dinner, beginning with Thursday night’s reception and ending with Saturday’s lunch. Our three special events found on page 6 of this insert are included in these registration fees for all persons.

NOTE: You must be registered with us to participate in our meetings, seminars and meals. We apologize but a la carte selection of our meals this year is not available.

ATTENDEES TO THIS YEAR’S CONVENTION ARE CLASSIFIED AS FOLLOWS:

Additional Adults: Any person 18 or older that will be participating in any of our meals. Children: Ages 0 - 5 this year are complimentary for attendance in any of our meals. Youth: Ages 6 - 12 that will be participating in any of our meals. Teen: Ages 13 - 17 that will be participating in any of our meals.

NAME BADGES Name badges are generated for all persons registering for the Convention. Whether a company representative, a spouse, a child, a guest or an additional company person, it is important that your badge be issued for the networking that will take place as well as the identification throughout the event. Prior to the Convention you will receive confirmation about the activities you have registered to attend and the number of people you have registered. NOTE: All persons traveling to the site of the Convention should be registered with us. Badges can be picked up at the Registration Desk before the Exhibitor Reception on Thursday or Friday morning before breakfast. We encourage you to keep your badge with you at all times to help others get to know you, and for admission to CFA events.

HEADQUARTERS HOTEL AND RESERVATIONS The CFA Summer Convention is hosted this year at Michigan’s Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, Michigan.

The CFA Room Block expires 6-25-2012. There are three ways to make your room reservations: 1. You can use the following URL as a hyper link in any on line

information for the group. http://www.grandtraverseresort.com/promocode/index.

cfm?promoCode=CFA0710 2. Or attendees can enter this code ‘CFA0710’ on the Group Reservations section of their website at www.grandtraverseresort.com 3. Anyone can also call one of our reservationists to set up a reservation at 1-800-968-7352 and mention the CFA/Con-

crete Foundation Association to receive the discounted rate.

REGISTRATION POLICIESMEMBERSHIP POLICYThe non-member rate for this year’s event has been eliminated in hopes of reconnecting and encouraging companies in the industry to experience the CFA network. If you are not a current member of CFA and are interested in joining, visit www.cfawalls/org/about/why_join.htm today or call us at 866-CFAWALL. Membership in the CFA holds many great benefits but none more important than networking with your peers from across the country member to member. The important thing is your connection to this peer group. Come see what we are all about.

SPOUSE/GUEST POLICYAll spouses, guests and children, as well as company representatives need only register for the Convention if they plan to be present during the daily schedule. All persons MUST register and pay the appropriate fees before attending any of the planned meetings and evening functions.

REFUND POLICYFull refunds, minus a $125 handling fee, will be made for writ-ten cancellations received on or before July 13. Cancellations received after July 13, are non-refundable. Substitutions are acceptable.

TECHNOLOGY RECEPTIONThis year’s tradeshow environment takes place during the Thursday night Opening Reception, Friday’s luncheon and roundtable session, and Friday evening Closing Reception. Only fully-registered attendees, additional exhibit personnel and registered spouses/guests are invited to attend this event.

ACTIVITIESPlease consult this brochure for all information on activities that are included with your general registration(s) and those activi-ties that require separate registration. Separate registration is required for the Convention and the Pre-Convention Seminar.

Registration Information

g CONVENTION REGISTRATION FEES

Cost/person #of attendees Total Cost

Company Participation ..$595 ______ $ _________

(includes one registrant attendance)

Additional Adults ..........$240 ______ $ _________

(Convention Attendees & Guests, includes cost of all meals)

Children (5 and under) ..free ______ $ ____0 ___

Youth 6-12 years ..........$75 ______ $ ____ _____

Teen (13-18) ................$120 ______ $ ____ _____

(includes two evening meal and two on-site lunches)

g CFA CERTIFICATION TEST includes Reference Pkg and shipping

Cost/person #of attendees Total Cost

Member/Non-Member ..$195 ______ $ _________

USING MEMBER POINTS? Do you have Member Reward Points in your account?

Contact the CFA to find out and redeem them for participation in the one-day Pre-Convention Slab Conference

or to reduce your cost for attendance at the Convention

Member Redeem Reward Points, 1 PT=$1) __________

TOTAL FEES DUE (U.S. Funds only) $__________

Concrete Foundations Association • PO Box 204, Mount Vernon, IA 52314 OFFICE 866-CFAWALL • FAX 320-213-5556 • www.cfawalls.org

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

*Company ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

*Contact _______________________________________________________*Email ________________________________________________

*Mailing Address ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

*City _____________________________________________________________________________*State__________*Zip ________________

*Phone_____________________________________________________ *Fax ____________________________________________________

REGISTRATION FEES Below are the rates for each attendee type. Identify the persons attending the Convention and special events and the CFA Certification Event. Then add up the number of attendees of each type and complete the company registration totals. NOTE: Full CFA member attendee and Additional Adults (Non-Member Adult and Non-Business Adult-guest and spouse) registration fees cover all meals from morning coffee service through dinner, all meetings, and all special events. Children, Youth and Teen registrations covers all meals as noted above.

ATTENDEE NAMES ATTENDEE TYPE EMAIL

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________

_________________________ ___________ _______________________Use multiple sheets as needed

REMINDER... Must register by July 13th to guarantee rates.

Registrations after July 13th are subject to increases due to hotel contract. Be sure to make your room reservations by June 30th

to ensure space in this great resort.

*REQUIRED

REGISTRATION 2012 CFA Summer Convention July 26-28, 2012Risk vs. Reward

DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER FOR THE ONE-DAY PRE-CONVENTION SEMINAR ‘SLABS: WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED’ Taking place on Thursday, July 26.

See Information and Registration Form earlier in this publication

Make checks payable to: (U.S. Funds ONLY)Concrete Foundations Association, PO Box 204, Mount Vernon, IA 52314

You may also use a charge card: Charge Card Type (Check One) o Master Card o Visa o Am Express

Card Number ____________________________________

Exp Date ______________ Auth. Code _____________

*Name as it appears on card:

_________________________________________________

STAYING AT THE GRAND TRAVERSE RESORT

Photo credits Grand Traverse Resort & Spa

Grand Traverse Resort & Spa is located near Traverse City, Michigan, along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay and is known as the area’s top golf resort and spa getaway. Their address is 100 Grand Traverse Village Blvd., Acme, Michigan, 49610. Their phone is 800-968-7352. Their website is www.grandtraverseresort.com

The 900-acre resort property is one of the Midwest’s finest full-service, year-round, resorts and conference destinations and offers 54 holes of championship golf including The Bear, designed by Jack Nicklaus, and The Wolverine - a Gary Player signature golf course. Make your trip even better by exploring our Michigan vacation packages or sign up for our email offers to get Traverse City hotel deals delivered right to your inbox. Additional features include a diverse selection of restaurants and lounges, seasonal recreation, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, children’s center, dog care facility, and shopping gallery.

Grand Traverse Resort & Spa is situated in the northwest corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the shores of Lake Michigan’s East Grand Traverse Bay. Just six miles northeast of Traverse City, Michigan, it is a ten-minute drive from Traverse City’s Cherry Capital Airport (TVC). The Resort’s Airport Shuttle service is provided for arriving guests upon request. Please call the Resort in advance of arrival 888-856-6270. Check their website for driving instructions.

IN NEARBY TRAVERSE CITY... www.traversecity.comSmooth beaches and striking bay views help make lively Traverse City, the favorite in-state resort for Michigan natives. A town of fifteen thousand year-round residents, it was saved from the stagnation that overtook many communities when their lumber mills closed down, because the stripped fields proved to be ideal for fruit-growing. Today, the area’s claim to be “Cherry Capital of the World” is no idle boast. Thousands of acres of cherry orchards envelop the town, their wispy, pink blossoms bringing a delicate beauty each May. At the National Cherry Festival, held during the first full week in July, visitors can watch parades, fireworks, and concerts, while sampling every imaginable cherry product.

Traverse City’s neat downtown rests along the bottom of the west arm of Grand Traverse Bay, below the Old Mission Peninsula. This slender seventeen-mile strip of land, which divides the bay into two inlets, makes for a pleasant short driving tour along narrow roads with tremendous simultaneous views of the bay on either side. Five sandy public beaches and a small harbour can be found around the town itself. Various companies offer boat, windsurfer, jet-ski, and mountain bike rental. Tall ships and boating are loads of fun no matter which watercraft you choose, but a ride in a tall ship adds a nautical dose of history. There are 36 golf courses in the immediate area, as well – some of them among the most beautiful in the country.

There are plenty of other activities available in Traverse City. Visit some of their many art galleries. Take in a museum. Play mini-golf or drive a go-kart on a race track. Ride a restored antique carousel inside a shopping mall. Stroll though our vibrant downtown shopping district. There’s no end to the action in Traverse City! Be sure to explore the many options - golf, wineries, beaches, outdoor activities, arts and more!

Shopping is a delight in historic downtown Traverse City, or at one of our modern malls, or in any of the picturesque surrounding towns. Front Street, our main shopping thoroughfare, is a bustling place with more than 150 boutiques, galleries, restaurants and coffee shops, but it has the kind of small-town flavor that makes you want to stay around just to enjoy the feeling. Just around the corner, on Union Street, is the small but captivating Old Town district, and a few blocks to the west is the Grand Traverse Commons, where the rambling Victorian-Italianate buildings of a 19th century asylum are being redeveloped into an elegant new retail district. And don’t forget our neighbors in the quaint port towns of the Leelanau Peninsula: laid-back little villages like Suttons Bay, Empire, Glen Arbor, Leland and Northport. (Don’t miss Leland’s famous Fishtown district, a collection of old fishing shanties and net-drying sheds that are now shops, galleries and stores.) or the Chain of Lakes country with the charming towns of Elk Rapids, Bellaire, and Alden -- secret jewels of the shopper’s art.

Traverse City - It’s a “Foodie Town!” Thanks to its award-winning wines and talented local chefs, Traverse City enjoys an international reputation as a place of surprisingly sophisticated food and drink. For two years in a row, Midwest Living magazine has listed Traverse City among its Five Top Food Towns.

Gaming and casino excitement abounds at either of their casinos, both operated by the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa & Chippewa Indians.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (U.S. National Park Service), one of Michigan’s natural gems, is a 71,000-acre area with glacial features including towering sand dunes and 35 miles of beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. Miles of sand beach, bluffs that tower 450’ above Lake Michigan, lush forests, clear inland lakes, unique flora and fauna make up the natural world of Sleeping Bear Dunes. High dunes afford spectacular views across the lake. An island lighthouse, US Life-Saving Service stations, coastal villages, and picturesque farmsteads reflect the park’s rich maritime, agricultural, and recreational history.Find out more at www.nps.gov/slbe/index.htm

If you would like to know more about Michigan, visit www.michigan.org

VISITING MICHIGAN

REGISTER TODAY!

Date

Completed

o Make Room Reservations __________

o Complete Registration __________

from this issue and mail

or fax to CFA

OR register online at

www.cfawalls.org

o Include Registration for __________

One-Day Slab Conference

o Make Flight/Travel __________

Reservations

o Develop/Draft A Copy of __________

your Fall Protection Plan

o Find Great Things to do __________

in Traverse City

YOUR SUMMERCONVENTIONCHECKLISTYou’re INVITED!

2012 CFASummer Convention

July 26-28, 2012

Traverse City, Michigan

Risk v

s. Rew

ard