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MEETING FORMAT - PRELIMINARY AGENDA HERE

Due to the overwhelming good feedback our meeting format will be identical to what we did in Savannah.  Our business meeting and roll call will begin Wednesday afternoon at 1pm.  This will be followed by Mike Snow, Executive Director of the American Hardwood Export Council and Michael Peelish, Esquire.   Following this session we will hold our cocktail reception with brief commentary by our WPMA Rising Stars, followed by dinner.

Thursday will conclude with a night to remember….a Mystery Night you will not want to miss!!!!

BONUS: Tickets to the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival’s International Sand Sculpting Exhibit. This exhibit highlights 32 of the world’s most talented sculptors. This annual event has grown to be the most prestigious event of its kind in the nation. With an international field of sculptors representing 10 countries, these professionals turn grains of sand into works of art in three days. You will be able to view this exhibit at your leisure during your stay!

Online Hotel Reservations here

Meeting registration link here - any questions call (978)874-5445

Download a meeting information package here

EDUCATIONAL / NETWORKING SESSIONS

Michael S. Snow, Executive Director, American Hardwood Export Council

Michael S. Snow has been the Executive Director of the American Hardwood Export Council  (AHEC) since 1999, where he oversees the Council's promotional programs around the globe, and manages AHEC's overseas offices and staff in Europe, Mexico, Japan, Dubai, Brazil, India Hong Kong and China. Previously, he served as AHEC's Program Manager for Europe, China and Japan.

Mr. Snow holds a Master's Degree in International Economics from the George Washington University, and a BA in Developmental Economics from the University of Wisconsin.  Before joining AHEC, Michael served as a Consultant on international education and travel programs for the National Geographic Society and the Smithsonian Associates, and spent several years in Seville, Spain teaching economics courses in English and Spanish for the University of Wisconsin System.

Michael Peelish, Esquire, Law Office of Adele Abrams

Michael works as an attorney with a degree in engineering of mines with over 26 years working in the mining, and general industry sectors.  He has handled cases before the MSHA and OSHA Review Commissions and in state and federal courts.  He also had company oversight for safety and health for mining companies with oversight for safety and health, human resources, training, environmental affairs, purchasing, government affairs, training, Marcellus shale gas production joint venture, and continuous improvement.  Throughout his career, he has worked with mine operators and OSHA facilities on 5 safety programs, and to seek improved ways of protecting employees' safety and health.  He is also an owner of a small business manufacturer of electrical components that provide more efficient use of energy in manufacturing processes.  He is now practicing law with the Law Office of Adele L. Abrams PC and regularly performs safety and health audits and exposure assessments for his clients.

PLANT TOURS

VIRGINIA BEACH SPECIAL FORCES

A once in a lifetime opportunity…A presentation from the Virginia Beach Police Department Special Forces Bomb Squad about bomb construction and detonation. The presentation will include traveling to an offsite facility where you will be able to tour the bomb truck, see the robots used for examination, examine a bomb suit and will conclude with a live demonstration where you will witness the detonation/explosion of several items being blown up!

AGI

A tour of AGI, a $300M+ per year sign manufacturing business. They manufacture signs for all of the major car brands and banks as well as sports venues all over the country. No doubt you have seen their work in your city/town. Our host will be the president of the company. His enthusiasm and energy are contagious. A must see!

HERMES ABRASIVES

A tour of the USA Headquarters for Hermes Abrasives. Hermes Abrasives occupies a leading market position in the production of precision bonded, high-quality, state-of-the-art abrasives. The tour will take you through the manufacturing process of sandpaper from paper and grit to finished product. You will never look at a piece of sandpaper the same way after you experience this fascinating, behind the scenes tour of a woodworking staple.

PREMIER MILLWORK & LUMBER CO., INC.

A little taste of the South!!! A southern barbeque hosted by Premier Millwork and Lumber Company. The menu will include brisket, barbecue chicken and all the fixings. You will also be able to tour Premier Millwork’s 40,000 square foot manufacturing facility owned by WPMA board member, George R. Melnyk, Jr. Premier Millwork is a full scale architectural millwork company who provides Millwork of Distinction from New England to Florida.

Golf Anyone?

Join us for a very limited number of slots for an enjoyable day of golf and camaraderie at a beautiful nearby course.  All are welcome regardless of player level.  Fee includes green fees, cart, cash prizes, and transportation to and from the course.

Note:  You must be willing to arrive at the hotel NO LATER than 11AM on Tuesday, October 4th, 2022 to be included in this exclusive group.  You must also be registered for the entire WPMA event or the guest of a registered attendee.  We will need your handicap, and requested pairing when you register for the meeting. Note club rental is not available.

Click here to view the 2022 list of opportunities.