Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/105367
70 • FEBRUARY 2013 • WORLD FENCE NEWS Fencer's Field Report continued from page 18 economic downturn affected the company in the long term, and he replied, simply, it hasn't; there have been no layoffs, everyone is working all year long. There has been a lot of custom and unique fence design, wood fences specifically, not pre-built. We asked how their approach to advertising changed, have they discontinued the yellow pages ads, and if so, what do they do in its place. Mark told us that the company hasn't changed its advertising scope, and that they use radio ads. Mark commented that local radio people do ad-lib type commercials which are really quite good. In addition, they are on the internet and they also go on Angie's list with some pictures. We asked what the labor situation was like, and is it difficult to get qualified and skilled labor. Mark told us their situation has been very constant, with no turnovers. He said that one installer has been with them for some 20 years, and others have tenure that range from many years as well to a few years. We also asked what the competitive situation is in the service area and we were told that, every once in a while, there are what Mark calls "fly by nighters" that crop up every so often. However, they are for the most part not an issue and that the company sells a much higher grade of custom product than they do that will last much longer. We then asked what the outlook would be for 2013 in their marketing area and Mark told us that it should not change up or down. We also asked about the economy in the area, and we were told that nothing is really noticeable, although some companies have laid off people and some businesses have closed. Further, he said, restaurants are transitory as well. On the residential side, there are foreclosures, but not a lot, and some apartments are being built. Finally for this edition, we asked continued on page 76 METALfab 2013 continued from page 56 NOMMA states. Voting takes place on the trade show floor during show hours on Wednesday, March 20, 4:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, March 21, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Thursday night celebration and NEF auctions Thursday, March 21 Join other METALfab attendees for a night of fun, food and exciting auctions. Southwestern attire will be the style. Plus: Participate in the NEF silent and live Auctions held during the event. Bring your wallet so you can take home items donated to benefit the NOMMA Education Foundation (NEF). NEF live / silent auctions Thursday, March 21 The NOMMA Education Foundation auction has become one of the most anticipated events held each year at the METALfab convention. With the help of donors, bidders, and auction volunteers, last year's auction raised more than $12,000 to support the educational and research work of the NEF. All proceeds help the Foundation provide quality education opportunities for the ornamental and miscellaneous metals industry through continuing education programs, video productions, and educational publications, as well as supporting special projects important to the industry. Top Job Jamboree Friday, March 22 Once voting ends, the action continues during the Top Job Jamboree, where images are flashed on a screen and entrants describe their work. On Saturday, the contest winners are announced during the awards banquet. The grand finale is the presentation of the Mitch Heitler Award for Excellence, which is given to one gold award winner who shows exceptional craftsmanship. Annual awards banquet and officer installation Saturday, March 23 The awards banquet is a great way to bring to a close an exciting week of activity. During this special time, the new officers and directors are installed, special recognition is given to outstanding NOMMA members, and the Ernest Wiemann Top Job Awards winners are announced. For more information on METALfab 2013, visit www.nomma.org.