Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/294207
8 | A L A B A M A H O M E B U I L D E R | S P R I N G 2 0 1 4 Winter Meeting and ABLE attendees were able to do some valuable networking in between educational sessions and meetings. Members from all across the state turned out for the 2014 HBAA Winter Meeting at the Mont- gomery Renaissance Hotel and Convention Cen- ter. is first statewide meeting of the year gave builder and associate members alike the opportu- nity to learn about the latest industry and regula- tory developments, get a preview of the HBAA's statewide membership drive, hear updates on the HBAA's legislative agenda and learn about other association news. A highlight of the Winter Meet- ing was the annual HBAA Legislative Reception, where members were able to talk firsthand with their legislators and share concerns about what's going on in their communities. e Winter Meeting was held in conjunction with Alabama's Better Living Expo (ABLE), sponsored by Alabama Power, Alagasco and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Af- fairs-Energy Division. Attracting more than 1,400 registrants, the 2014 ABLE drew in members of Alabama's residential and commercial building industries who were eager to learn the latest de- velopments in sustainability, green building and energy-efficiency. Combining over 100 hours of continuing education with more than 50,000 square feet of exhibits showcasing the newest sus- tainable products and services, ABLE has proven to be a valuable source of education for the build- ing industry. Here are a few photo highlights from the Winter Meeting and ABLE. 2014 HBAA WINTER MEETING & ALABAMA'S BETTER LIVING EXPO HIGHLIGHTS In the Alagasco pavilion, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Mad- dox discusses the city's road to recovery after the April 2011 tornado. Speaker of the House Mike Hubbard addresses the Governmental Affairs Committee during the HBAA Winter Meeting. Huntsville/Madison County Builders Association members Larry Durham, Kenneth Chandler and Mark Harris visit during the Legislative Reception. Membership "Coaches" Joe Hocklander, Pheza Sumners, Alicia Huey, Cathy Brown and Steve Steele introduce the state's new football-themed membership drive during the HBAA Board of Directors meeting. Attendees of this year's Winter Meeting and ABLE check out the vendors showcasing the latest sustainable products and services in the exhibit hall. Educational sessions at this year's ABLE ranged from fortified building to smart growth to marketing to the new green buyer. The Tesla at Alabama Power's booth proved to be a powerful draw for curious attendees.