IGIA Convention - A "W" in the Scorebooks

With survey results compiled and the 2011 IGIA Convention officially put in the books, one thing is clear – the Iowa Grocery Industry Association upped the ante – with fresh, new speakers and a casino theme night, the 2011 Convention scored a victory. 

The Line-Up

Each year, the IGIA Convention Committee wonders how it is going to top the speakers from the previous year’s event. This was especially true coming out of the 2010 convention with Desi Williamson, Drew McLellan and Rob Denson.

Equally impressive in 2011, however, was Aaron Thomas, Governor Branstad, William Walljasper and Ric Jurgens. All provided attendees lessons and tools to better themselves as people and professionals. Thomas’ touching message, “My Family’s Story: Courage, Passion and Overcoming the Odds” hit home on the true spirit of hard work, determination and compassion for others. Concluded by a standing ovation by all IGIA attendees, Thomas’ presentation left a lasting impression on all.

“What an amazing story of what the word ‘toughness’ really means. It’s not who is the strongest in a fight, but who can take a devastated community and put the entire community on his back and lead the way to get them back on their feet and rebuild their town,” shares Jeff Stearns, Fareway Stores.  “For Ed and his wife to lose their home but to take care of others before their own needs is a great display of toughness. Then for Ed’s wife to be able to forgive after his murder and encourage others to extend sympathy and support to the family of Mark Becker, who was responsible for Ed’s death – that is toughness.”

Governor Branstad also took time out of his busy schedule to fervidly address the grocery industry. While providing an update on current legislative happenings and laying the groundwork for upcoming years, the governor’s passion for the state of Iowa. Falling in line with Iowa’ success, Terry also discussed the Healthiest State Project, with his goal of making Iowa the healthiest state in the nation. IGIA President Jerry Fleagle and Hy-Vee Chairman of the Board and CEO Ric Jurgens, both convention attendees, are currently playing significant roles in this project.

Include the highly rate presentation of William Walljasper and Ric Jurgens, and the 2012 IGIA Convention Committee is left answering the reciprocal question of, “How are we going to improve next year?”

The IGIA Team

Of all the things our members cherish about attending the IGIA Convention, it may be the fact that individuals can push aside their competitive differences to discuss the overarching issues and opportunities the grocery industry faces as a whole.

“For me, the IGIA Convention has been a place to learn more about our industry, and more about those who lead our industry.  Most importantly, it is a place to build valuable, lasting relationships...personally and professionally,” shares Tyler Farner, Farner-Bocken Company.

This year, over 340 people made the trek to Okoboji, and every single one of them would likely attest to the fun-filled atmosphere they experienced being surrounded by other in the industry.  Perhaps it’s the time away from work or the networking opportunities explored on the golf course. Either way, each member of the IGIA team has the chance to sit back and relax, in a family-friendly atmosphere. 

Daily receptions open to family members, the Spouses’ Brunch and the IGIA Kids’ Convention all allowed for a family-friendly vacation spot, while members networked concurrently. 

“Attending the convention is a great way to support for the association, while being able to network with customers and vendors, and build relationships outside of the work environment at the same time,” concludes Dan Kramer, SHAZAM.

The IGIA Convention is the perfect escape which also provides opportunity for professional development.

Playing Conditions

Whether we like to admit it or not, weather plays a significant role in our daily experiences and outlook. And, without cooperation of the weather, the IGIA would not be able to host a vast majority of its networking event in Okoboji – the E & J Gallo Winery Sunset Wine Cruise, Mueller-Yurgae Associates Early Bird Golf Tournament and IGIA Golf Tournament.

Fortunately, IGIA was blessed with great weather for the second straight year, and we were able to experience all three outdoor activities.

Together, these characteristics unite to form a fun-filled atmosphere – arguably one of the top state grocery association conventions in the nation. “I loved the convention, it gets better every year,” shared a 2011 convention attendee.

Thank you all for your contributions in making the IGIA Convention a success in 2011. We look forward to seeing you in Okoboji again next year!