versation. These were clearly sage experienced men, the guys I had come to meet. They barely looked up. Nothing. Didn’t they know how much it had taken me to get there and how excited I was? Needless to say, it was disappointing. I did not know it at the time, but I had just learned an important life lesson. It taught me that sometimes, slow- ing down to meet and speak with someone you don’t know can really be a lot more important than what you perceive as a pressing priority. Today I can unequivocally tell you it is different. Bart, Jim and all of the NTCA staff, as well as the Coverings Board of Directors, strive to do everything possible to create an environment attractive to con- tractors, users and NTCA member- ship. Contractor tours, Installation & Design Experience, installation competitions, hands-on and sched- uled training geared to educate all of us along with the tile and stone community at the show. Now that’s the point! YOU HAVE TO SEE THIS! Once you come, you will keep coming back. Most folks do. Every single time you come to one of these events, whether it’s Coverings or a similar event, it is certain that you will leave with something positive and important, if you are looking for it. Are you seeking greater knowledge, a bet- ter understanding of new products, a new friend or mentor? Or maybe you are in search of a better rela- tionship with a supplier who could be instrumental to your success. Opportunities abound, classes, professional development, semi- nars and training and incredible keynote speakers. Then of course, there is always the social aspect. But that’s another letter… This is not intended to be a cheerleading session for NTCA and Coverings. The point is that if you keep coming back, the ben- efits you will reap will definitely be worth it. If you can’t make it this year, plan to come in 2020. Or make sure you get to anoth- er industry- or NTCA-sponsored event. There are a bunch of folks who spend a great deal of time making sure you don’t walk in a room without feeling like you are a part of something bigger. Maybe you can be that person to make someone new feel welcome. I look forward to seeing you. I hope we can find a few minutes to con- nect. (And, by the way, thanks Brad!) Chris Walker NTCA President Vice President David Allen Company Chairman- ANSI A-108 Chairman US TAG ISO T-189 Board of Directors ABC-VA Voting Member TCNA Handbook Voting Member NTCA Reference Manual chriswalker@davidallen.com PRESIDENT'S LETTER ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 12 TileLetter | 2019