"This conference exceeded expectations in every way," said Jim Hayes, MRA president.   "The number of vendors who exhibited was up 22% from last year; the largest trade show we've had in our history.  The Rio All-Suite Hotel  & Casino conference center was a hit with attendees and met our every need.  In addition, our conference achieved a better balance between fresh water marinas and salt water properties than in the past.  We tended to emphasize salt water facilities in our seminar subjects even though the membership is close to 50-50.  This year our program and educational subjects provided parity for both types of operations." 

Mac Scott with the Sierra Boat Company in Lake Tahoe, attending the MRA conference, said "The event benefited me professionally in so many ways.  The educational seminars were outstanding and on the money for the work I do.  I have many pages of notes and a head full of ideas.  I learned how to build a marina safety program from a specialist from 3M, best policies and practices for running a marina, how to develop legal contracts to protect the marina, and much more.  Best of all, I was able to build relationships with experts who I know I can follow up with in the future." 

Keynote speaker Rick Cronk, founder of Dreyers Ice Cream, shared his insights on building a successful company culture and achieving growth through a focus on the customer.  "Everyone loved Rick Cronk's keynote speech," said Pat Bagan, MRA Vice President.  "He really understands how to satisfy customers and empower employees.  His talk was clear and understandable, and I feel sure it had something for everyone in the room." 

The event awards banquet honored Bruce Abraham of Topper Industries.  Abraham, who has participated in fifteen MRA conferences, won the Duane Higbee Award for the outstanding trade member.  Retiring board member Dave Smith was awarded the Darrell McConnell Award for his more than 30 years of service on the Board of Directors. 

Yvonne Cantrell, member of the MRA Board of Directors, said "We had many enthusiastic comments from attendees and exhibitors about this year's conference.  They liked everything about it, the program, the keynote speaker, the many exhibitors, and the conference center at the Rio.  I thought the energy and positive vibe of this conference was the best I've seen, and I've been to over twenty of them.  The hotel facilities, food and the staff were tremendous.  Many of the attendees commented about the convenience of meeting in Las Vegas.  All indications are we will return next year."