Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/563951
- 40 - In March 1955, a group of 21 rental business owners from throughout the Midwest met in Moline, Ill., to establish what's now the American Rental Association. Later that year, plans were made for what they called a "general convention of rental operators" the following January in Kansas City, Mo. If the convention was well received, they would hold it annually. That first convention was definitely well received, and it's continued to grow and change with the industry itself. The 60th anniversary of ARA, as well as the 60th annual convention and trade show, will be celebrated in Atlanta. Celebrate 60 Years of ARA at the Show 60 TH ANNIVERSARY ARA'S ROUTE 66 While you're at the Georgia World Congress Center, be sure to check out this special tribute on Level 2 for a look back at ARA's history through a series of videos and equipment displays. This area will include a Show Rest Stop to relax and regroup, as well as massage stations and charging stations for your convenience. You also will find a food court and other food vendors, as well as plenty of seating and tables in this area. Your Role in the History Everyone who attends The Rental Show has their own story and memory, whether you've been to one Show, 40 Shows or somewhere in between. And you can play a role in the on-site celebration. Special displays on site will be set up with photos and memories from past attendees or exhibitors, plus they'll be online at TheRentalShow.com leading up to the Show. Go to TheRentalShow.com/60Memories to share your stories and upload your photos, or email chris.coleman@ararental.org with your materials or any questions. It's your industry, it's your Show – and we want to hear from you! It was a gathering of ARA past presidents at the 1967 show in New Orleans, including (from left) Wayne Collett, 1963 president; Leonard Hawk, first president from 1956-1958; Jack Decker, 1965 president; and Carl Petterson, 1959-1960 president. 1967