Sixty and One Facts About Convention

Representatives from 13 distributorships attended NWSA's first official gathering on November 13, 1945, at the Hotel Van Cleve in Dayton, Ohio.

1945

First Annual Convention, Dayton
Enthusiasm filled the air as 13 representatives from distributorships in Ohio, West Virginia, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Virginia and Maine came to Dayton, Ohio, on November 13, 1945, for the first official charter meeting of the National Welding Supply Association. This meeting was originally planned to take place in Cincinnati, but hotels in the area were booked. The site was moved to the Hotel Van Cleve in Dayton. The group addressed the issues impacting their individual businesses. They were determined to be recognized by their manufacturers as a legitimate avenue through which to sell products. They developed a constitution and spent a considerable amount of time determining how to grow the new association. The first Board of Directors was elected.

NWSA Secretary George Ohmer (left) and L.O. Schneiderwind of Omaha Welding Company, who was elected NWSA's first president at the second Annual Convention

1946

Door Opens for Manufacturer Membership
The second Annual Meeting and Convention of the National Welding Supply Association took place at the Van Cleve Hotel in Dayton, Ohio, April 29-30. Members in attendance reviewed the association's constitution and bylaws. Perhaps the most important resolution adopted was allowing manufacturers to join the association. It was established that distributors would be eligible for active membership, while manufacturers of welding equipment, supplies and/or gases would be eligible for “sustaining membership.” Sustaining members, changed to “associate members” a year later, were granted all the privileges of the association, with the exception of holding office and voting. Fifty-eight years later, at the 2004 Annual Convention, members voted to allow two associate members onto the board with voting privileges.

1947

SRO at Educational Seminars
The Benjamin Franklin Hotel in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, played host on May 5-6. Four speakers who addressed the assembled members. H. R. Rinehart of the National Supply and Machinery Distributors Association presented a discussion about “What an Active Trade Association Can Accomplish.” Welding Engineer Editor T. B. Jefferson outlined “The Progressive Distributor,” D. W. Northrup of Henry G. Thompson & Son Company described “The Importance of a Definite Sales Policy,” and Henry Miller of the Federal Trade Commission addressed “The Advantages of Trade Practice Rules.”

The first NWSA logo was unveiled in St. Louis.

1948

Logo Introduced
In May 1948, NWSA members gathered in the Show Me State. St. Louis played host to the association's fourth Annual Convention, and members eagerly took the opportunity to learn about current industry trends and the best ways to improve their businesses.

Spatter, the association's newsletter, was mailed to members a week after the convention, detailing the election. Spatter was replaced in 2002 by GAWDA Connection, an electronic publication that is e-mailed to members twice a month.

1949

Board of Directors Expanded
At Cincinnati's Hotel Gibson, on May 11-13, presenters included James Lincoln of The Lincoln Electric Company, who discussed “Welding and Its Future”; Professor James H. Davis of Ohio State University, who offered advice on how to increase the effectiveness of salespeople; and A. H. Butz of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, who discussed “Selling in 1949.” Members amended the association's constitution and by-laws to eliminate the Executive Committee and instead set up a 15-person Board of Directors, with five elected each year for three-year terms. A special committee and the association directors also discussed the possibility of establishing Contact Booths at subsequent conventions.

Attendees check out a new helmet at the first Contact Booth Program.

1950

First Contact Booth Program
The La Salle Hotel in Chicago hosted NWSA's sixth Annual Convention, May 8-10. One highlight was the introduction of the Contact Booth Program, designed to “afford all distributors an excellent opportunity to contact the policy-making executives of their leading sources of supply.” Attendees were enthralled by a presentation from C. I. MacGuffie of General Electric Company, who outlined his analysis of what constitutes the “Ideal Distributor.” Characteristics MacGuffie listed included: “conducts business in a neat, orderly, businesslike fashion; maintains an aggressive group of salespeople; is reasonable and fair in dealing with manufacturers; and believes in the company the distributor represents.”

1951

Seminars Address Industry Issues
NWSA members convened in Cleveland, Ohio, on May 7-9. Speakers addressed topics including “Steps Our Organization Is Taking to Live With the Priority System,” “How We Are Meeting Customer Requirements During a Period of Shortages,” “The Cost and Value of a Catalogue to the Distributor” and “How We Store and Distribute Manufacturers' Sales Literature.”

1952

Distributor/Manufacturer Panel Examines Relationships
Delegates gathered at the Hotel LaSalle in Chicago from May 5-7 to discuss such pertinent topics as the importance of trade names, merchandising aids, safety precautions and accident prevention methods. Officials from the Illinois Bell Telephone Company offered a presentation on “Good Telephone Usage,” and a panel of distributors and manufacturers examined effective distributor-manufacturer relations. A record number of manufacturers participated in the Contact Booth Program.

Learning to sell more effectively in Cincinnati

1953

Get Out There and Sell
Cincinnati, Ohio's Hotel Sheraton-Gibson played host to NWSA's ninth Annual Convention, held May 11-13. Sales effectiveness was the central topic of discussion, including a panel discussion on “Increasing Sales Effectiveness”; presentations on sales meetings, sales promotion literature, and the training and compensation of salespeople; and an address by U.S. Rubber Company Sales Training Specialist H. B. Sharer on “What Makes a Star Salesman a Star.”

NWSA's first convention on the West Coast took place at the Fairmont Hotel.

1954

Economy Shines
"Economy” was the order of the day at the tenth NWSA Annual Convention, held February 15-17 at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco, marking the first time the association held its convention on the West Coast. The association provided promotional convention stickers and encouraged members to affix them to correspondence in the weeks prior to the convention in order to drum up interest. A panel addressed “How We Plan to Cut Costs and Increase Net Profit in 1954.” Educational sessions included seminars on delivery, purchasing, selling and warehousing.

Ladies attended the “Informal Coffee Hour” on opening day.

1955

Life of a Salesman
"The Life of a Salesman” dominated the Annual Convention at the Edgewater Beach Hotel in Chicago. A variety of outstanding authorities in the sales field, including Cloyd S. Steinmetz of Reynolds Metal Company, A. C. Van Dusen of Northwestern University, and Phyllis Brown of the Research Institute of America, addressed the convention sessions. Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.'s Arthur C. Horrocks delivered the keynote address, “How Big Is Your Field?”

Contact Booth Program was held in the International Room of the Hotel Roosevelt.

1956

Widen the Margins
NWSA went to New Orleans in March for the first convention hosted by a Southern city, and 759 delegates turned out for education and excitement at the Hotel Roosevelt. The convention's theme of “Widen the Margins” served as the basis for addresses by the five principal speakers: G. Robert Gadberry of The Fourth National Bank of Wichita, Gene Flack of Sunshine Biscuits, A. L. Makle of The California Company, Frank W. Lovejoy of Socony-Mobil Oil Company, and William H. Gove of EMC Recordings Corporation. As reported in Spatter, an “unusually large number of ladies” accompanied their husbands to the New Orleans convention, with 258 women registered.

(l-r) George P. Lamb, Don Richards, Senator William Purtell, C.O. Stilwell and Robert C. Fernley.

1957

Cooperative Action
A record number of NWSA members gathered in Washington, D.C., in May to hear keynote speaker Senator William Purtell (R-Conn.) explore various ramifications of the problems of management and suggest ideas for better profits through more efficient organization. Following the keynote address, attorney George P. Lamb discussed the advantages and responsibilities of cooperative action, outlining permissible areas versus illegal ones. The members in attendance were so impressed by Lamb's presentation that the association printed his speech and mailed it to all members following the convention.

1958

Building Better Distributors
NWSA turned south for its first convention in Florida at the Americana in Miami Beach. A panel presentation on improved training methods for distributors prompted avid audience participation and a lively exchange of ideas. Additional speakers addressed topics including “Executive Conduct in Business,” “Improve Your Human Relations” and “Enthusiasm—Passport to Successful Selling.”

A panel of experts engaged attendees in a give-and-take on sales training.

Part of the group of 35 NWSA members who went to the San Francisco convention on the California Zephyr

Bob Mahony of Albany Welding Supply Company and the transistor radio he won during the Contact Booth Program.

1959

Lowering Distribution Costs
Attendees at NWSA's 15th Annual Convention learned the art of “Lowering Distribution Costs Through Increased Efficiency.” The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco again played host to the May 4-6 event, which featured a variety of educational business sessions and a lively panel discussion. The Contact Booth Program was hailed as one of the best ever, and distributor attendance was very high, inspired in part by the first ever awarding of door prizes: trips to Hawaii and a transistor radio.

FRONT ROW (l-r): (1947-49) Ralph Chase, Chase Welding Supply; (1949-50) R.S. Mars Sr., W.P.&R.S. Mars Co.; (1950-51) Glenn Gorman, Purity Cylinder Gases; (1951-52) R.S. McCracken Jr., R.S. McCracken & Sons; (1952-53), Milton Sims, Absco Inc.; (1953-54) William Rice, Virginia Welding Supply; SECOND ROW (l-r): (1954-55) James Alcock, Saginaw Welding Supply; (1955-56) E.C. Caluwaert, O.K.I. Welding Supply; (1956-57) C.O. Stilwell, Gulf Welding Equipment Co.; (1957-58) R.P. Tarbell, Scott-Tarbell Inc.; (1958-59) Leslie Beaver Jr., Beaver Welding Supply; (1959-60) A.C. Axtell, Essex Welding Equipment

1960

Past Presidents' Club Formed
A crowd of 755 attendees came to the Palmer House in Chicago, where 104 Exhibitors participated in the Contact Booth program. It was announced that NWSA Officers had approved a $10,000 grant to Ohio State University to co-sponsor the production of a film promoting career opportunities in the welding industry. A gathering of the association's 15 Past Presidents marked the formation of the Past Presidents' Club. All living Past Presidents joined at a luncheon and formally organized the club, with plans to meet once a year to discuss industry problems and association activities.

Members and wives who enjoyed post-convention trip to Bermuda.

1961

It's a Wonderful Town
The first NWSA convention in New York City was held at the Hotel Commodore. The 628 members, spouses and guests in attendance were treated to a bevy of superb business sessions and entertainment. Several members and their spouses also took advantage of the eight-day, seven-night tour of Bermuda set up by NWSA following the Convention, a practice that continued for many years.

1962

Futures in Welding
NWSA's second convention in New Orleans was again held at the Hotel Roosevelt and featured a record-setting crowd of 801 delegates. Assistant Vice President of U.S. Steel Corporation Harry Stuhldreher, who also was the quarterback of Notre Dame's “Four Horsemen,” was the keynote. The second day's business meeting featured the world premiere of “Futures in Welding,” the film that was spearheaded at the 1960 convention. The 24-minute feature was shot on 16-mm film with full color and sound, and members were encouraged to buy copies to promote the industry among young people.

Annual Dinner Dance head table

1963

(r) Howard Seeds of Findley Welding Supply collects television set he won during the Contact Booth Program.

Harry Moore (r) presents Early-Bird Door Prize to John Linnehan of Linnehan Welding Supply Co.

Convention Moves to Fall
This convention was the first to be held in the fall. Despite the threat of Hurricane Flora, which was situated 380 miles off the Florida coast, more than 740 delegates came to the Americana Hotel in Miami Beach from October 8 to 10. President Robert Jackson was ill, so Vice President Harry Moore filled in, and the convention went off without a hitch. A convention innovation that was highly acclaimed was the Early Bird Door Prize, which allowed members who arrived at the general business session before 9:30 a.m. a chance to win a ticket drawing for 100 silver dollars. John Linnehan of Linnehan Welding Supply Co. was the lucky winner.

1964

What Happened Here, Didn't Stay Here
For the milestone 20th Annual Convention, NWSA made its first visit to Las Vegas. The new venue drew a record crowd of 971 attendees. The event was headquartered at the Flamingo Hotel, but in an interesting twist, activities on the second day were all planned off-site at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The Center's large exhibit space was much more conducive for Contact Booth exhibitors. Convention attendees were able to utilize the services of the Show Reservation Desk, which helped interested guests make reservations to attend any show at the various Las Vegas hotels. Members left with new ideas and new colleagues to network with during the year.

1965

Herbert and Jeanette Weiler

First Convention with an Official Theme
The 21st Annual Convention was historic for a variety of reasons. It marked the first time NWSA ventured outside the United States, part of the reason for a record-setting turnout of 1,035 attendees. The Queen Elizabeth Hotel in Montreal hosted NWSA's first convention with an official theme: “Mutual Opportunities and Responsibilities (M.O.R.) In a Changing World.” Prior to the convention, the association's “M.O.R. Contest” gave eight couples a chance to win free accommodations during convention, with drawings held at each of the six Zone Meetings and two at the association office. A 1965 issue of Spatter reported on another “unique feature: the appearance of a female on the program.” Dr. Margaret Nix, associate professor of behavioral sciences at Pace University, spoke on human relations in business. Herbert G. Weiler of Weiler Welding Company received a bronze plaque recognizing his role as co-founder of NWSA. An amendment to the association's constitution was approved, creating a new membership category available to individuals who have been either an Active or Associate Member for a minimum of 10 years and are no longer associated with the welding supply business. Dues for the new Senior Members were $15 per year.

Mardi Gras Kings, Queens and Board Members

1966

All Systems Go
New Orleans' Hotel Roosevelt hosted the convention for the third time, again shattering attendance records. This time, 1,443 attended. The keynote speaker was Lt. Col. John A. “Shorty” Powers, also known as “The Voice of the Astronauts.” Powers is credited with coining the term “A-OK.” NWSA President Don Berner did a parody of the song “Trouble in River City” from The Music Man, converting the lyrics to “trouble with welding supply distributors.” The parody was well-received, and President Berner briefly considered a new career as a song and dance man. New Orleans Mayor Victor Schiro presented Berner with a key to the city.

The Contact Booth format was changed, allowing limited product displays from a record 119 manufacturers.

Puerto Rico draws almost 1,100 attendees.

1967

First Annual NWSA Golf Tournament
The first golf tournament at an NWSA event took place at the 23rd Annual Convention, in what has become an annual tradition. The San Jeronimo Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico, served as the headquarters hotel and the site of all the business sessions, but attendees also were housed in four other hotels—Caribe Hilton, Sheraton Hotel, La Concha and Flamboyan. One of the most memorable opening receptions was held right on the ocean front at historic Fort San Jeronimo.

Association unveils new logo, its second.

1968

Partners for Profit
In its third trip to the Golden Gate City, NWSA once again took root at the Fairmont Hotel. However, in order to accommodate the record number of manufacturer exhibitors, 125, the Contact Booth Program was held two blocks away at the Masonic Memorial Temple. During the panel, “Manufacturers & Distributors—Partners For Profit” moderated by George M. Hohmann of National Cylinder Gas Company, discussion was so intense that there was no time left for the many questions from the floor. Former New York Yankees pitcher Lefty Gomez, the winning pitcher in the first-ever Major League Baseball All-Star Game, recounted his baseball career at the luncheon. Pop music legends The Mills Brothers were slated to perform at the closing gala, but were forced to cancel because of illness and were replaced by The Modernaires. Every lady attending the convention received a solid gold cable car charm to begin an NWSA charm bracelet.

NWSA President Avery Seaman opens Annual Convention.

1969

After 25 Years—A Look at the Future
The Hotel Fontainebleau in Miami Beach hosted NWSA's silver anniversary convention from October 14-16. Speakers capitalized on the exciting events of the year and looked ahead to coming years. President Avery Seaman's speech, “After 25 Years—A Look at the Future,” sparked great interest and inspiration. Attendees also celebrated Neil Armstrong's July moon walk, with programs such as “Cave Man to Space Man” and a speech from G. Merritt Preston, the chair of NASA's Kennedy Space Center.

Odds for the industry in the new decade were good, according to Jimmy the Greek.

1970

Technology Takes Center Stage
UCLA's John Wooden, one of the most successful basketball coaches of all time, mesmerized attendees as he talked about the “Pyramid of Success” at the Dunes Hotel in Las Vegas. Author and Lecturer Harry Browne presented “I Dreamed They Repealed the 20th Century.” This convention was the first to offer optional EDP sessions, featuring a presentation on “Data Processing Equipment for the Welding Distributor” by representatives from IBM and Borroughs.

1971

Convention Moves off Mainland
Delegates went to Honolulu to address “Improving Distributor-Manufacturer Cooperation.” A panel made up of distributors and manufacturers discussed making better use of manufacturer's sales literature, maintaining adequate inventory levels, and taking maximum advantage of manufacturer sales representatives. The Modern Methods Committee was started, and the NAW Trustees were formed, including Avery Seaman of Corp Brothers, Carl K. Seitz of Welders Supply Company, and NWSA's Frank E. Wilcher.

NWSA President Don Wyatt signs the Official Membership Roll of the Beaver Club, following the ceremony which made him a member of this prestigious club. The Club was formed in 1785 in Montreal by the aristocratic merchants carrying on the Indian trade of Canada.

1972

Creating Sales Opportunities
At the 1972 Convention in Montreal, NWSA Traffic Consultant Edward J. Dempsey was introduced to assembled delegates. Dempsey detailed the association's traffic services and his role as Consultant. The Safety Committee also was becoming active under President Edward N. Madison, whose opening remarks preceded a panel presentation on “The Sales Opportunities Created by OSHA.” Attendees heard from well-known author and sports enthusiast George Plimpton, and visited the Montreal office of IBM for a Data Processing demonstration. The New Christy Minstrels entertained at the Dinner Dance.

The Annual Tennis Tournament is always a big convention draw.

1973

NWSA Struts Its Stuff in NOLA
With another convention in New Orleans, attendees came prepared for the vibrancy and excitement the city has to offer—as was evident by NWSA President Chuck Raney's colorful wardrobe. From the President's Reception, where Lou Sino and his orchestra serenaded attendees, to the closing dinner dance featuring entertainment by Pete Fountain and dancing to the music of Rene Louapre and his orchestra, delegates and their spouses enjoyed the fourth convention held in New Orleans. Two more conventions would be held in upcoming years.

Artisans from the small villages nestled into the hills surrounding Mexico City crafted these serape blankets, worn as welcoming wraps by members on the last night of the Convention.

1974

NWSA President Ed Madison welcomes attendees to Mexico.

Heading to Mexico
Heading South of the Border, the Annual Convention in Mexico City regaled attendees with a private performance of the Folklorico Ballet, an exquisitely choreographed and costumed rendition of Mexican dances. Getting down to business, delegates heard William F. Buckley Jr., editor of the National Review, speak on “Some of the Problems of Freedom,” and an address from George Romney, who, while serving as Governor of Michigan, brought it back from a $100 million deficit without raising taxes.

NWSA President Virg Lewis extends a cordial California welcome to Governor Ronald Reagan.

1975

Ronald Reagan Brings Down the House
NWSA had much to celebrate at its 30th Anniversary. Canada became the association's seventh Zone, and our northern neighbors were eager to network with their industry peers at the Fairmont Hotel in San Diego. The Management Information Committee was introduced. Highlighting the speaker roster was former Governor of the State of California and later 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, who brought the business session to a dramatic climax with his dynamic address on the free enterprise system.

Crowded aisles reflect keen interest at Contact Booth Program.

1976

Celebrating Freedom
Television newsman Bill Monroe from NBC showed appreciation for the '70s in his aptly named speech, “Beyond '76—America's Best Century,” during the convention's presentation of value-added awards. Keeping with the relaxed atmosphere of Miami Beach, delegates and their spouses dressed informally in leisure suits and cocktail dresses at the convention's internationally themed reception and dance.

Taylor Fernley, NWSA's Executive Secretary, ties up a bit of the Maine coast as he keeps things moving at Caesar's Palace.

1977

Governor John Connally addresses 33rd Annual Convention in Las Vegas

Glitz, Glamour, Gambling Take Back Seat to Gases
Caesars Palace in Las Vegas may have been surrounded by the glitz, glamour and gambling of “the Strip,” but with former governor of Texas John B. Connally giving an address following the inauguration of incoming NWSA President James Walser, the card tables weren't the only place to find a full house. The executive editor and anchorman for PBS's McNeil-Lehrer Report, Robert McNeil, was among the featured speakers.

Dr. Norman Vincent Peale spoke on “The Positive Principle Today.”

1978

President Ford Addresses Delegates
Originally to be held in Canada, the 1978 Annual Convention was switched to Denver, Colorado, at the last minute due to pending tax regulations on foreign conventions. Despite this sudden change in venue, attendees flocked to the Rocky Mountains where they heard from the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford. Sharing the podium with the U.S. President was NWSA President George Motzenbecker, whose term as the association's 33rd President was coming to a close.

At the closing Gala/Reception, food was plenty and varied, as was the entertainment, which included a big band, a string quartet and a water ballet.

1979

Preparing for a New Decade
Clearly a destination of choice, the Annual Convention made its way off the mainland once again to Honolulu, Hawaii. Former Supreme Allied Commander of NATO General Alexander Haig discussed “America's Role in Tomorrow's World,” a fitting topic for a convention finding itself at the dawn of the 1980s. Bill Sturgeon of Consumers' Welders Supplies in Edmonton, Alberta, was the first Canadian ever to be elected President of the association.

1980

The '80s: A Search for Excellence
Those heading to the 36th Annual Convention in Atlanta, Georgia, lost Hope—Bob Hope, that is. The famous comedian was the scheduled guest for the traditional closing gala, but his plans changed and he traveled to Russia for a concert performance. Red Skelton took his place at the historic Fox Theatre. A total of 1,871 people attended the convention at the Peachtree Plaza, which was a drop from the previous year due in large part to the economy and a decrease in the number of spouses attending. Louis Rukeyser, whose speech, “What's Ahead for the Economy,” touched on areas including labor, government restrictions on the free market, international commodity shortages, banking and credit. ABC News commentator Howard K. Smith alluded to the fact that a concerted effort should be made to control government spending and decrease inflation. He also said that with America ranking only 11th in the world in terms of productivity, a de-emphasis should be put on consumption and an emphasis on production. Spouses enjoyed a luncheon at the Hyatt Atlanta, where Abigail Van Buren, aka “Dear Abby,” shared some of the funny, sad and rather poignant letters she had received over the years from her readers.

Mrs. Katharine Danco gave wives her perception of the role of women in the family business.

1981

Women's Role in the Family Business
San Diego drew a record-breaking attendance of 2,371 delegates and spouses to what was considered at that point one of the most successful annual meetings in the history of NWSA. The committee mixed up its traditional evening gala with entertainment from comedy team Skiles and Henderson, and a megawatt performance by Dionne Warwick. Entertainment wasn't the only thing the 37th Annual Convention improved—for the first time in the history of NWSA's Annual Conventions, spouses were able to attend their own Women's Workshop conducted by Katharine Danco on “The Role of Women in the Family Business,” proving that the convention's theme, “Professionalism: It's Up to You,” was meant for NWSA spouses as well as members.

1982

New Tax Laws and Motivating Employees
Opening ceremonies in New Orleans included a rousing jazz performance by the New Orleans Brass Band, followed by a Trouping of the Colors by Tulane University Naval ROTC. Of particular interest to attendees were two concurrent workshops: “Implication of New Tax Laws on Welding Supply Industry” by Bart Basi, and “Motivating Employees for Greater Profitability” by Richard Levin, which was standing room only. Spouses enjoyed a touch of celebrity at the Women's Brunch, where actress, author and businesswoman Eva Gabor talked about the “Three Lives of Eva.”

The Lindy Hop

1983

Back to the Future
Attendees in Anaheim, California, enjoyed a night back to the '40s, with the “NWSA Hollywood Canteen” gala featuring the big band music of Tex Beneke and The Modernaires, along with the famous Ink Spots. With two dancers on hand to demonstrate the Lindy Hop and the Jig Walk, attendees were sure to sharpen their jitterbug moves for the gala's dance contest—where the top three prize winners were couples Saundra and Bill Meredith, Gerda and Bob Morton, and Sonia and Sam Wilson. Bringing things back to the future was speaker Captain Jim Lovell who, as the first man to visit the moon twice, concluded his talk with a narrative of the Apollo 13 mission film. Sharing information on new products and ideas in the marketplace were 224 exhibitors at the Contact Booth Program.

Dancing and dining amidst the big mammals

1984

Herb Cohen promised the standing room only audience that by the conclusion of his session they would even be able to “negotiate with their kids!”

Pair Up Program
Filled to capacity, the opening session of the 40th Annual Convention kicked off in Chicago. Attendance stayed strong well into the events of the convention, marking record attendance at the Contact Booth Program, which featured 219 exhibitors, and the highest attendance ever at sessions. Foregoing the traditional Women's Brunch, spouses and delegates were paired together at a luncheon to hear Chicago-based businesswoman Barbara Proctor, whom President Reagan cited in his State of the Union Address as the perfect example of the self-made businesswoman, speak on “Achieving Against the Odds.” Lest one think the 40th Convention was all talk and no action, attendees had the opportunity to tour an array of exhibits featuring Egyptian mummies and prehistoric animals, and dance to Dick Judson and the Sunshine Brass at the closing gala held at the Field Museum of Natural Science.

Three standing ovations confirmed that an evening with Bob Hope was the highlight of all social events, and well worth the five-year wait.

1985

Early-Bird Workshop Sets the Stage

Outgoing President Hugh Higley Sr. (left) turns over the NWSA gavel to newly elected President Bob Jackson. Jackson was the first of many second-generation NWSA Presidents; his father, Robert, served from 1962-1963. Hugh Higley's son Bill served in 1995-1996.

More than 2,000 members met in San Francisco, California, for the first NWSA convention to include a pre-convention workshop, which drew over 150 attendees. This Monday morning seminar, conducted by Don Hutson on “The Fine Art of Communicating,” was formed by the Convention Committee as an “extra” to those early arrivals to the convention who don't play golf or tennis. A session on Bar-Coding, billed as “an emerging development that promises to be an integral part of our future,” provided a better understanding of standardization of cylinders and hardgoods inventory control.

1986

Recognizing young executives

Focus on Younger Generation
Those attending the Annual Convention in Seattle learned how to take advantage of technology in their businesses by using videotape in their operations. President-Elect Larry Kissler moderated this unique panel presentation in which distributors gathered information on how to produce a videotape to sell their company's services. Along with the role of technology, the role of the “younger generation” was stressed, supported by an informal reception held by President Bob Jackson to provide a forum for the younger executives in the association to come together. Topping off the convention was an exclusive performance by Barbara Mandrell at the Seattle Opera House, based on her 1986 sell-out tour.

Hawkeye, Hotlips and Fr. Mulcahy commandeer a member to attend the M*A*S*H party.

1987

NWSA Does M*A*S*H
Surrounded by sea, sand and surf, attendees to the Annual Convention in Honolulu were well equipped to enjoy the events of the annual meeting—from the opening session featuring a group of Tahitian dancers to the M*A*S*H theme party at Waimea Falls Park. Delegates and their spouses channeled the characters of the popular television show at mock-landmarks such as Rosie's Bar, The Swamp, the Post-Op, the Mess Tent and the Shower, while dancing to music from the '40s and '50s. Attendees also enjoyed the humorous and motivational experiences recounted by NFL Official #33, Art Holst. The convention wasn't all fun in the sun, as attendees addressed the serious issue of substance abuse in the workplace in a program with Dr. Denis Zegar, who noted that alcohol was linked to 47 percent of industrial accidents.

1988

Leadership Lessons
Delegates learned how leadership and politics go together in Washington, D.C. Speakers included George Will, Cokie Roberts and Linda Wertheimer, whose “Behind the Scenes on Capitol Hill” presentation provided a lively overview of Congress, its personalities, its politics, its intrigues. It's hard not to be awed by the sights of our nation's capital, and delegates took advantage of various tours offered throughout the convention.

1989

Olympic Gold Medalist Peter Vidmar

A Perfect 10
Attendees offered a moment of silence in recognition of those members who could not attend the 45th Annual Convention because of the damage caused by Hurricane Hugo, which hit in September. There still were 1,812 people in attendance at the Marriott's Orlando World Center from October 1-5. Thirty-one percent of NWSA's Active Members were represented (up 5 percent from 1988), along with 55 percent of the Associate Members (also up 5 percent from 1988). More than 250 children accompanied their parents to Orlando. Olympic gymnast Peter Vidmar, who won a gold medal in 1984, spoke about “R.O.V. - Risk, Originality, Virtuosity: The Keys to a Perfect 10!” NWSA had a special interest in Peter because his mother, Barbara Vidmar, and his brother, John owned General Welding Supply Company in Gardena, California, and had been active members of NWSA since 1964. NWSA also was part of the 3rd Annual Joint Astronaut/Cosmonaut Lecture Series, a 10-day tour that gave Americans the opportunity to discover some of the universal human responses to space flight and the natural ties that bond people who have flown in space. Their presentation at the NWSA Luncheon focused on life and work in space, as well as the new nature of the fliers' relationship to Earth.

Tennis, anyone?

1990

Sell More Welding Supplies
"Sell more welding supplies! Have more fun!” This was the mantra of speaker Frank Meeks, who got the 46th Annual Convention off to a rousing start. The Las Vegas Hilton played host to the meeting, held September 30 through October 4. Trinity College's John Stoessinger received a standing ovation for his moving talk on America's role in world events.

Contact Booth Program at San Diego Convention center

1991

The Making of a Distributorship
The opening meeting in sunny San Diego featured an interesting presentation by Barbara Vidmar of General Welding Supply in Gardena, California, on the making of a distributorship. Internationally renowned forecaster Dr. Marvin Cetron spoke of political, economic and social trends that will shape the industry's future. Needing additional space to accommodate the large number of exhibitors, the Contact Booth was moved outside the hotel to the adjacent Convention Center.

Participants in the Young Executives' Mini Olympics battle in innertubes, proving that air is useful for fun as well as profit.

1992

To demonstrate how bar code scanning works, every attendee's badge contained a bar code that could be scanned at the Contact Booth Program.

Northern Adventure
Over 1,400 guests traveled to the Hyatt Regency in Vancouver, British Columbia, to network and learn from other welding distributors in one of North America's most beautiful settings. Secretary of Education William Bennett was one of several well-received speakers who filled the conference slate. The convention ran from October 4-8, overlapping the Yom Kippur holiday. Because of the controversy caused by this conflict, the association instituted a policy of examining all future dates for conflicts with religious holidays.

1993

Outdoor Contact Booth Program requires hats.

Chart a New Course
From October 2-6, NWSA used the gorgeous scenery at the Hyatt Regency in Maui, Hawaii, as the site to “Chart a New Course.” The Hyatt served as the headquarters, but the President's Reception was held next door at the Maui Marriott, as was the Contact Booth Program, which was held outside. The outdoor venue overlooking the Pacific Ocean was believed to be the reason that nearly 90 percent of distributor delegates participated in the Contact Booth Program. The 49th Annual Convention also is remembered for the energetic verbal sparring of political pundits (and married couple) James Carville and Mary Matalin. Gerald Coffee recounted his story as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, and he proved so popular that he was brought back as a presenter for the 61st Annual Convention, to be held in 2005 in Maui.

Young Executives worked the virtual reality kiosk.

1994

The “Golden Gate Double Cross” drew members for a scenic early-morning run.

Golden Year — The Big 50
Nobody, it seems, wanted to miss NWSA's 50th Annual Convention. Over 1,600 guests made the trip to San Francisco and the Fairmont Hotel on September 24-28 to kick off the association's yearlong 50th Anniversary celebration. The program opened with a commemorative video titled “Since We First Met,” which traced NWSA's early years, past accomplishments and future opportunities. The video opener has become a hallmark of subsequent conventions. A bevy of high-profile speakers graced the podium, from Olympic speed skating gold medalist Bonnie Blair to management guru and author of the popular “Flight of the Buffalo” James Belasco to General H. Norman Schwarzkopf. The newly created “Service To Industry Award” was given to ESAB's Fred Bovie and Air Products' Cliff Weidner.

1995

Experience the Magic
The stage was set in Orlando for NWSA members to “Experience the Magic” at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. Those attending the convention were able to “Experience the Magic” of Disney—and of Pat Williams of the Orlando Magic. The Contact Booth Program, always a highlight of the convention, was conveniently set up right in the hotel, where distributors took advantage of the networking opportunities with suppliers.

1996

Randy Squibb shows off his winning chili recipe.

Shooting for the Stars
The Wyndham Anatole Hotel in Dallas was highlighted by leadership messages delivered by Hall of Fame quarterback Roger Staubach of the Dallas Cowboys and Apollo 13 Commander James Lovell. These two presentations were greeted with standing ovations from the crowd of more than 1,200. Nearly 200 manufacturers exhibited their wares at the Contact Booth Program. Another highlight came courtesy of the Young Executives, who randomly divided themselves up into teams and devised their own chili recipes for a chili cook-off.

Hail to the Chief! Clinton look-alike welcomes incoming NWSA President Chip Valentine.

1997

Transforming Vision to Reality with People and Technology
Politics dominated discussion at Washington, D.C.'s Sheraton Washington Hotel. At the Opening Meeting, both major political parties were represented by speakers, Republican Jack Kemp and Democrat George Stephanopoulos. J.C. Watts, a Congressman from Oklahoa and former University of Oklahoma quarterback, addressed the closing ceremony at the request of his close friend, NWSA President-Elect Fred Fitch. The Lincoln Electric Company's Don Hastings received NWSA's Award of Excellence. It is the highest honor NWSA can bestow on an individual and, until 1997, had been given only twice. Previous recipients were Robert C. Fernley, managing director of NWSA, and Ted Jefferson, editor of Welding Design and Fabrication.

Competitors duke it out on the mat.

1998

The Changing Competitive Landscape in Distribution
President Chip Valentine opened the San Diego convention with a captivating speech titled, “The Changing Competitive Landscape of Distribution.” The presenters who followed delivered similar messages, focusing on radical management approaches, using change as opportunity, and learnable patterns to improve business behavior. The closing gala capped the magnificent week. Those who chose not to dance could instead sumo wrestle, hula hoop or jump on the Velcro wall. A fireworks show closed the conference.

President Fred Fitch and Sheree Mazzella, NWSA's associate director, lead the parade.

1999

The Times They Are a-Changin'
NWSA members gathered at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside in the Crescent City for the last convention of the century. Full of reflection and possibilities for the future, delegates heard from Richard Teerlink, president & CEO of Harley-Davidson. In one of the most auspicious entrances by any incoming president, Dave Mahoney entered to the theme from Rocky, to the delight of all in attendance.

2000

Living in the Age of Possibilities
The magnificent Hawaiian islands lured more than 1,000 attendees to the Grand Wailea Resort in Maui. Political icon Newt Gingrich focused on how to prepare and respond to unique challenges and opportunities presented by the Information Age and the global market. Other presenters included futurist Ian Morrison, management guru Mike Workman and Helen Thomas, White House correspondent for Presidents Kennedy through Clinton, who spoke to a group of 400 spouses. A convention highlight was a spoof of the hit show Survivor, in which President Dave Mahoney was “voted off the island” to make way for incoming President Sheron Carter. This convention marked the first “NWSA Gives Back” collection for a local charity in the host convention city. More than $36,000 was donated by NWSA members to an organization chosen by the association president and his wife.

NWSA President Sheron Carter and his wife Lyn made a special trip to San Francisco to present NWSA Gives Back donations.

2001

Terrorist Attacks Cancel Convention
Due to the tragic events of September 11, 2001, NWSA's 2001 Convention, scheduled to take place in San Francisco from September 23-26, was cancelled. The foresight of Executive Director Rick Doyle, who secured cancellation insurance for the convention, saved the association a large amount of money that would have gone to pay hotel deposits and non-use fines. In spite of the cancellation, President Sheron Carter and his wife Lyn made a special trip to San Francisco to present NWSA Gives Back checks totaling over $32,000 to Lincoln Child Center and Beating the Odds, two organizations dedicated to helping at-risk children.

Attendees wore T-shirts emblazoned with the association's new name.

2002

One Year Later—New Heroes & New Challenges
NWSA reflected on the year past and examined the changing face of the world and the industry when it convened in September at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel in Orlando. New York City's Chief of Police on 9/11, Bernard Kerik, mesmerized a packed auditorium with his recollection of that day. Other topics included: “Doing the Impossible,” “America's Gift—A Legacy of Heroes,” and “The Winds of Change.” In that spirit of change, the association officially announced that it would change its name to the Gases and Welding Distributors Association (GAWDA) to better reflect the composition of its membership, comprised not only of distributors of welding products, but gases as well, in addition to a large North American membership base.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge proved easy footwork for these attendees.

2003

Outperforming the Economy
GAWDA's 59th Annual Convention took the association to magnificent Vancouver, British Columbia, for five days of learning, networking and exploring methods for “Outperforming the Economy.” Speakers included Godfather's Pizza chairman Herman Cain, consultant Kevin Freiberg, Modern Group CEO Dave Griffith and technology guru Jack Shaw. The GAWDA Award of Excellence was given to Past President George “Chip” Valentine in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the association and the industry.

2000 Past President Dave Mahoney (left) serves as caddy to incoming President Bob Thornton.

2004

A check in the amount of $53,000 was presented to Golden Rainbow, the GAWDA Gives Back Recipient chosen by President and Mrs. Wally Brant.

Betting on Better Times
GAWDA members took a chance on “Betting on Better Times” in Las Vegas. Keynote speakers included Cisco Systems CEO John Chambers, lawyer and actor Ben Stein, pitcher Carl Erskine and economist Alan Beaulieu, who offered suggestions on growing market share in today's business climate. Presentations on economic cycles, industrial gases, welding fumes and the FDA brought the latest information to delegates. A number of changes were adopted to the association's bylaws, including, for the first time, the addition to the Board of Directors of two Associate Members with voting rights. Don Hastings of Lincoln Electric was presented the GAWDA Award of Excellence for his role as an advocate for the independent distributor. GAWDA Members contributed over $53,000 to GAWDA Gives Back, which was donated to a local group in Las Vegas. Since its inception in 2000, donations to GAWDA Gives Back have totaled over $193,000.

2005

Hawaii Six-O - The Road from Dayton to Maui
Join GAWDA this September for the 61st Annual Convention, “Hawaii Six-O - The Road from Dayton to Maui,” taking place at the Grand Wailea Resort and Spa in Maui, Hawaii. In the grand tradition of GAWDA conventions, it is certain to provide ample opportunities for education and networking—including presentations from keynote speakers John Ashcroft, Captain Gerald Coffee and consultant David S. Forman—plus plenty of room for fun and excitement in one of the nation's most exotic locations.