NPE

[johnnymac18]

My parents said to make sure and check out a BBQ place called Rendezvous...looking forward to some good BBQ!!

[Asphaltman]

Everybody going plan to attend the sealcoating and striping roundtables, we can use that as an unofficial meet up.  I will be moderating the sealcoating one, and Robert does the striping one.  For those that have not been in a while, SW stopped their parties a few years ago, in fact, they have not even been exhibiting for a year or so either.  The new big party seems to be Seal Master, but last year Brewer put on a nice spread as well.  Should be a very fun year, I hear the Memphis BBQ is awesome!   

[jimbo]

can't make it. Maybe one of these upcoming years... Just wish it was closer.

[RandyV]

I will be attending this year  - haven't been to one in about 5 years or so. I am looking forward to connecting with some old friends and meeting some new friends. I'll be there Thursday and Friday and I'll be the lucky guy with the smiling redhead by my side - that would be my wife so I'll have to be on my best behavior.

Seeing all the new products and talking with the manufacturers will prove to be informative as it has been in previous shows but some of the real benefit comes from the networking with all you wonderful people who willingly share experiences and knowledge. If you want to get a hold of me, you can find my cell number on our web site www.parallelcontracting.com

[wedolines]

Thanks. Looking forward to it. Hopefully we don't get snowed in like last year. TD

[Asphaltman]

This is the first time to Memphis for the show, so I dont think anybody really knows whats best.  I do know that Doubletree is the only "show" hotel still available.  I almost stayed there because I always like Hilton properties, but ended up doing the Marriott because many others were staying there.  I think youll find a good number of attendees at all three show hotels.  While you cant get the show rates for the Marriott, you can still book direct, its just a little more costly.  I think originally they quoted me $156 with an AAA discount.  I have heard so much buzz about this show, I really think its going to be a blast. 
 
ALSO dont forget the pre-registration pricing ends on Feb 3rd, so if you want to take any seminars, register before then.
 
 

[wedolines]

I was thinking about staying at the Doubletree in Downtown. Any advise would be appreciated. First time in Memphis.
 
Thanks,
 
Tom

[Asphaltman]

I have had several emails asking about the Free Roundtables at the Expo, so I thought I would explain for those that don't know.  They are more or less a town hall type discussion that lasts an hour.  They have 5 of them this year with topics on sealcoating, paving, striping, infrared, and sweeping.  They start Wed night and wrap up Friday night.  The Stripers and Sealcoating are extremely popular and usually have standing room only.  So everyone gets into a room and a moderator asks about a dozen or so questions regarding the topic.  Then after that they go back and answer each question as a group, often prompting different answers based on different methods etc.  I absolutely love the roundtables, not only because they are free if you register with that code I gave you, but the stuff you learn from how others do things is amazing.  Usually after the roundtable ends you'll find guys still talking shop out in the halls.  For those of you sitting on the fence about going, NPE is something you don't want to miss, more so this year with such a great conference program.   Let me know if anyone has any other questions regarding the show.

[spraytip]

  Looking forward to being in Memphis, and meeting some more of you, who knows Elvis may be there ??

[Gerzie]

I will be there. Missed last year. Looking forward to Memphis!

[Asphaltman]

Hey Everyone,
As a member of the Pavement Advisory Board, I would like to invite you to attend the National Pavement Expo 2012 on Feb 15-18 at the Memphis Cook Convention Center in Memphis TN.  NPE is the largest event in the country specifically designed for paving and pavement maintenance professionals.  There will be 50+ seminars and workshops, with certificates of attendance; you can visit top companies in the exhibit hall; and attend the FREE industry roundtables.  I am offering everyone here on PLP a VIP pass for each person from your company who registers, to get FREE admission to thje exhibit floor, Free admission to Network Night, and Free admission to any of the five end of day industry segment Roundtables.
To take advantage of this offer, just register online with Promo code VIP. Complete details of the show are available at http://www.nationalpavementexpo.com or by calling 800-827-8009.   I look forward to seeing you all there!
 
 

[Asphaltman]

   NPE is great for all sizes of company's.  I started going when we were a one man show.  The stuff you learn is invaluable.  I often learn many things just from talking to other contractors in the halls and the free roundtables.  Keep in mind, when you take seminars you get certificates of attendance that are great to market your business and help you stand out from your competition.  If you could make it this year I would.  Even just to go to the free roundtables or walk the show floor.
 
   One bit of interesting information, I was talking with a few contractor friends of mine at the last show, and we noted that we all hadnt missed a show in over a decade, and that all of our businesses were doing well.  Im not saying the show will give you instant results, but I really believe the things I have learned over the years has helped and ensured our success, just IMHO 
 
 
   The change of venue is a normal thing, although the show has seen a lot of Nashville in the past.  Memphis is a new city to the East show, and from what I can tell looks like its going to be a ton of fun!   Many years ago it would rotate each year, and has been to places like Charlotte NC, Atlanta GA, Orlando FL, Lousiville KY and so on.   The West show Pavement Live has been in Las Vegas for years, this was the first year of rotation to San Diego.   Next year is still unknown.
I would encourage everyone to check it out.   
 
   You can get more info on both shows at http://www.nationalpavementexpo.com    Its not too late to make plans and go, even if you just get to a day or two of it!  Also remember by your support of the show, the classes, and the exhibits, it will continue to grow and be there each year. 

[DAN N.J.]

All I can say is wish about it 33 years ago. I learn something every time i go to this show to pay for it.All the equipment you need for the most part is there for you to see and compare. The classes are very good and informative. Just by talking to other people about problems you in counter and how other people address them is another way you can learn from going. This show is very well organized and i recommend it even to my competitor's .

[burton4ta]

Have never been but am thinking about going next year.  I have never been to anything like it.  We do striping sealcoating and patching. Would you guys recommend it? We are a smaller company.

[Rock]

I will be there.