RIA Solicits Entries for Phoenix Awards

The RIA Phoenix Awards recognize the achievements of restoration firms worldwide who “make it better” for business and homeowners every day. Entries for the Phoenix Awards for Innovation in Restoration and Innovation for Reconstruction can be submitted through Monday, December 17, 2012. Late submissions will be accepted through Friday, January 4, 2013 (there will be a $75 late fee per entry). 

Projects should demonstrate value through a conspicuous reduction in the amount of the loss to the insurance carrier and/or property owner, focus on effective problem-solving in a catastrophic situation and identify the innovative procedures implemented during the restoration or reconstruction process.

To see previous Phoenix Award-winning projects or enter a project, visit www.restorationindustry.org, click on “Industry Resources” and select the “Phoenix Award” tab. 

 

RIA Convention Preview

The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) will be holding its 68th-Annual Leadership Summit and Industry Expo at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, from April 23-25, 2013. Over the next few years, the event will be alternating between Las Vegas and Orlando.

Dina Dwyer, CEO of Dwyer International, will deliver the keynote address at the opening session on Wednesday, April 24. Based in Waco, TX, The Dwyer Group is a holding company of seven franchise businesses under the following service marks: Aire Serve, Glass Doctor, The Grounds Guys, Mr. Appliance, Mr. Electric, Mr. Rooter and Rainbow International, each of which sell and support a different franchise. Collectively, these independent franchise concepts offer customers worldwide a broad base of residential and commercial services.

Emma Cardini, senior associate with Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates and a professional engineer who was involved with the damage inspection of the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C. following the August 2011 earthquake, will deliver the keynote address on Thursday, April 25. Cardini and her team rigged ropes to rappel down the sides of the monument for an up-close look at the cracks throughout its masonry façade.

Education sessions will cover a wide range of topics, ranging from emerging restoration technologies and legal issues in today’s work environment to creating successful sales teams. 

Other events during the convention include the second annual Martin L. King Golf Tournament, networking sessions and the RIA Dinner and Awards Banquet, which recognizes the achievements of industry professionals and those who have attained their RIA certifications.

 

Property Industry Conference Update

Fifty-five individuals attended the third Property Industry Conference (PIC) on October 1 in Chicago. Tracy Bachtell, senior vice president of business development with Paul Davis Restoration, delivered the keynote address and provided an overview of how 10&10 came into existence, as well as a look at how restoration companies can address some insurance company concerns. Norrine Brydon, vice president, data asset, MSB/Marshall & Swift/Boeckh explained how MSB gathers and reports the information obtained from restoration companies. She stressed that MSB is a “reporter” of data and does not set pricing. Ed Jones of HSG/Code Blue outlined the challenges that third-party administrators face and explained the importance of restoration contractors managing projects in a cost-effective manner.

As the PIC begins planning for 2013, organizers are seeking individuals to serve on a program committee to assist with the development of future events. Anyone interested in serving on this committee should contact Patricia Harman at pharman@propertyindustryconference.org. 

For more information on the Restoration Industry Association and its programs, visit www.restorationindustry.org.