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THE SHOWAND THE SHOW.ER, CONSTRUCT!
by Ralph Liebing, RA, CSI, CDT
Cincinnati, Ohio
The annual gathering round-up of the faithful and the others, [not all are CSI members, but are in varying situations]. All have their motive, and some anticipate much more than others. Some are busy with side issues [?] of organization business, choice of attire for the main event, practicing thank-you speeches-- and some simply to see old friends, to bend elbows and chat. Some will be missing.
As the traditional convention goes, this is a little different. There seems to be an air of seriousness and dedication that marks the show as more of a business event than one of carousing and ribald fun! Even the displays have an undergirding of business-- more information, new products, answering questions, and meeting faces that provide more than what is available locally.
But all is not somber and serious. There are war stories, jokes, good humor, performance, entertainment, music, costuming and the pleasantries of simple friends from afar meeting and reinforcing their friendships and mutuality. There is gala, celebration, and no doubt some fine eating – and, yes, drinking, but with appropriate responsibility; we are, after all, pillars in the construction industry.
With all of the vital and worthwhile work that CSI does each year, CONSTRUCT is perhaps both the highlight of the year, and the most important event. Here is the strongest impetus to take time and send money to attend and garner the goodness of one-on-one renewals, up-to-date education, and new products-- and the important business of running the organization. 'Tis a busy and important time for the collective CSI and each member, individually. We all, from time to time, must go back to the well to be refreshed, reinvigorated, and reinforced with the latest information.
It then is a vital event for all who can attend and those so disposed to take part. More should be there each year to help themselves [?} and give something back to CSI.
It also is a very convenient way to see America, and experience life and traditions in various parts of the country. Remember, Old CSIers and specifiers dont fade away, they just show up in another venue!
While CONSTRUCT may not appeal to the widest of audiences, and is quite specialized, it would be a GREAT idea to up-tick exposure to it, and to ballyhoo it so others realize the activity and import of CSI, its work, programs and documents. CSI is on a path to expand its influence [with re-branding, etc.] and needs to move to more platforms and outlets to draw more interest and to reflect the influence CSI has within the construction industry. We need to move out [as in expand] and to properly let our place, influence and message become bigger.
Lets not let show disappear from the lexicon of CONSTRUCT nor the most public of our exposure!
Have a great time! Help make this years event the best yet!