President's Message

Hello, I hope everyone is benefiting from the summer weather, either by increased sales of barbecue, patio, etc or by enjoying some well deserved time off! We have been busier than ever at HPBAC. Recent regional events included the Western Forum in Richmond, B.C., three Ontario education days, AGMs and education days in Alberta and the Maritimes. I cannot overstate how great it is that we are holding events that bring value to HPBAC members in the regions.

I want to express my appreciation for the hard work and dedication the members of the Western Chapter board put into the Western Forum this year under the leadership of Kim Rodgers. There couldn't have been such a successful event without your hard work. Building on your efforts, Ontario is working on a similar event on alternate years that compliments the Western Forum, but it is a tough act to follow! The spirit in the West is very high among the dealers that I talked to - this is in no small part due to the Forum bringing everyone closer together. With the regulatory challenges ahead of us - especially in the west - I will be proud to report to HPBA that we have the best-in-the-business supporting our industry. Thanks again for showing everyone how it's done!

At the HPBAC Board meeting in June, we welcomed new board members - Ross Mikkelsen - Barbecues Galore (Alberta) representing Barbecue, Alan Murphy - Enviro (BC) as manufacturer and Rejean Coutu - independent rep (Quebec). For your information, the Board is made up of five Regional Representatives, three Manufacturers (including Electric appliances), as well as At-Large Directors representing Gas Utilities and Barbecue. 

HPBA in the U.S. has recently advised that we were forced to make a change in venue for 2007 EXPO from Dallas to Reno. The Dallas location decided to build a hotel on the proposed site of our outdoor burn area. Reno won out after research from the EXPO Committee. Also, as you've no doubt seen in Hearth & Home magazine, the stove changeout in Libby, Montana is underway and Pittsburgh and Dayton are next.

Watch for changes to the Web Site @ www.hpbacanada.org - our Communications Committee is working hard to re-design this important communication tool for easier navigation. We have also finalized a Policy on Responsible Wood Burning that is intended to head off cases similar to Golden, B.C. where municipalities may be considering "Wood Burning Bans". The policy presents our Association's ideas on better alternatives... to read the policy, click here.

That's all for now, remember HPBAC is working hard to bring Dealers additional member benefits, like our new Insurance and Financing programs. Check them out and take advantage of the savings!

- John Vukanovich, HPBAC President