Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/233313
Bennardo spent 12 weeks at ground zero after Hurricane Sandy and brought back critical lessons on proper design and construction against future wind and surge events. Grimes spoke on the expanding business opportunities for contractors, manufactures and suppliers by supporting and building to The FORTIFIED Home criteria. York's seminar showed attendees how to complete the opening protection section of the Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form. At the IHPA general meeting, Browning kicked off a campaign to increase membership. Survival seminar, enrolling in public exchanges was to begin the following week. The session provided a brief overview of the public exchanges, tax credits for businesses and individuals and survival strategies for businesses that currently have employees and are struggling with the pay or play tax penalty scenario. The constantly evolving federal health care program exemplifies the need for business owners to stay informed as rules change. Industry Achievement The International Hurricane Protection Association (IHPA) held a general meeting during StormEXPO 2013. Led by president Frank Browning, of Wayne Dalton, the meeting kicked off a campaign to increase membership and emphasized the important legislative changes and policy proposals the association has brought into being. A special presentation was made during this meeting. Tom Johnston, Town & Country Industries and past president of IHPA, was named recipient of the association's Industry Achievement Award. A reception for IHPA members and StormEXPO 2013 VIPs was held following the meeting. Networking and meeting up with industry colleagues in the relaxed atmosphere of the open vendor area closed out the day's events. Browning presented past president Tom Johnston with the IHPA's Industry Achievement Award. Tabletop product displays were among the more than 20 vendor exhibits open on the hotel's penthouse level. IBS PREVIEW 2014 / STORM & SECURITY PROTECTION 17