Von Schrader Associates Take On Alligators

Associates got more than a tan at the 5th Annual Von Schrader Associate Convention in Orlando this February at Disney's Grosvenor Resort.

A welcoming cocktail party, meals fit for kings, financial strategies and cleaning issues were all part of the three day seminar hosted by the Von Schrader Company.

Von Schrader Associates participated in the convention which began Sunday night, February 25, with a cocktail party. Von Schrader Associates representing 16 states and one Canadian province shared success stories, ideas, and advice over hors d'oeuvres and drinks. Attendees also had the opportunity to get up close and personal with Von Schrader Staff and Keynote speakers.

Monday morning began bright and early with a breakfast buffet followed by more formal introductions of the staff members and an overview of the convention agenda. The day's first speaker, Frank Calderone of Paine Webber, gave a very impressive power point presentation concerning "Financial Investment Strategies". An Italian Buffet lunch concluded the day, and attendees had the opportunity to participate in a group golf outing at Disney's Lake Buena Vista golf Course, stay in the convention room and speak with Frank one on one, or take a free afternoon to explore Downtown Disney.

Tuesday morning began with another breakfast buffet followed by more wonderful speakers. Tom Ellis, from Collins & Aikman Floor coverings spoke to convention-goers about "Indoor Air Quality". Contributing columnist to trade magazines, Bob Wittkamp gave an entertaining talk on "Commercial Cleaning Opportunities". Another group buffet lunch under blue skies surrounded by lush green tropical trees and plants broke up the day and gave the group a chance to enjoy the surroundings. After lunch, Rick Raessler of DuPont gave a presentation on "Carpet Protectors" - where, once again, it was stressed "Carpets don't wear out - they ugly out." Round tables, a silent auction for machines, and a grand prize drawing where one lucky attendee won a new LMX Machine and another won a $1,000 product credit concluded the day.

Tuesday night wrapped up the convention with the "Ultimate Swamp Party". The room was filled with swamp foliage, signs, mechanical crocs, and lights that created the festive swampy atmosphere. Associates, staff and speakers dined on a buffet of prime rib, gator tail, chicken and more, while drinking "swamp juice" and listening to the song and comedy of entertainer Chris Michaels. It was a great opportunity for Associates to spend time together as friends and enjoy each other's company.

Gator Tim, from "Gatorland" told tales of the alligators and brought his two alligators to visit. There was a photo opportunity where Associates could hold both big and little alligators and talk with their owner. The Swamp Party wrapped up the convention, and attendees found it hard to leave to return to work, but did so with more knowledge and more tools to help with their businesses. This convention was definitely an event to remember.

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