I don't know whether anyone has plans to post an "official" Grumble review of the FACTS meeting that took place yesterday at Jay Goltz's Chicago offices, but here's a quick recap...
After open invitations were extended to all in the industry, between 35 and 40 picture framers (mostly small independents) leading manufacturers, and one publisher gathered to talk about the future of FACTS. The meeting, organized by PPFA/PMA and Jay Goltz, was to determine whether the work started by FACTS can continue. Jay and Don Pierce moderated the day's discussion.
We were warmly greeted by Goltz Group staff and handed a packet of FACTS information. After pastries and coffee, Don opened the meeting with comments about FACTS, and reminders of why it is so important for us to have comprehensive framing standards that everyone in the industry can use to their advantage.
He reviewed the current state of FACTS, and reported that FACTS has achieved 501(c)(3) status as a charity, so all contributions are IRS-approved tax deductions.
Don also explained how his retirement has affected the progress of FACTS, and thanked us for continued our interest in supporting the only comprehensive standards in our industry.
In the morning session we talked about what is needed for FACTS to continue: (A)Industry-wide acceptance; (B)Adequate funding; (c)Expanded participation; and (D)Permanent staffing. Already offered: Free office space (courtesy of FrameTek), all necessary office furniture and equipment (donated), transition help from FACTS Trustees, and assistance from PPFA/PMA. It was decided that three committees should be established immediately, to be discussed in the afternoon session.
During the lunch break Jay conducted a tour of his company's offices, retail areas and production shop. That and the comaraderie alone would have made the trip worthwhile.
After lunch we charged ahead with three committees:
Standards Oversight Commmittee (Norm Boris, Nona Powers, Greg Fremstad, Chris Koeppen), to take care of technical development and maintenance of the standards.
Marketing Committee (Stuart Altschuler, Maureen Nolan, Caroline Masters, Jerry Feig), to take care of publications, public relations, and connections to other industries.
Education Committee (Nona Powers, Kerry Wilson, Jim Miller), to develop FACTS educational courses, to get them presented at all venues, and to interface with PPFA chapter events.
Personal comment:
FACTS has always been a great concept. Yesterday's meeting was very encouraging; it's now safe to say that FACTS will continue with renewed enthusiasm.
The high point of the whole day was when Caroline Masters stepped forward with an unexpected FACTS contribution from Nielsen-Bainbridge -- a check for $7,500.00.
Everyone associated with the art and framing industry is invited to participate. In exchange for a little money and volunteer time, you'll have a hand in shaping the future of the industry. You'll work with some of the best and most dedicated framers in the world. You'll learn how to use FACTS guidelines to increase your revenue and profit. And you'll have fun.
After open invitations were extended to all in the industry, between 35 and 40 picture framers (mostly small independents) leading manufacturers, and one publisher gathered to talk about the future of FACTS. The meeting, organized by PPFA/PMA and Jay Goltz, was to determine whether the work started by FACTS can continue. Jay and Don Pierce moderated the day's discussion.
We were warmly greeted by Goltz Group staff and handed a packet of FACTS information. After pastries and coffee, Don opened the meeting with comments about FACTS, and reminders of why it is so important for us to have comprehensive framing standards that everyone in the industry can use to their advantage.
He reviewed the current state of FACTS, and reported that FACTS has achieved 501(c)(3) status as a charity, so all contributions are IRS-approved tax deductions.
Don also explained how his retirement has affected the progress of FACTS, and thanked us for continued our interest in supporting the only comprehensive standards in our industry.
In the morning session we talked about what is needed for FACTS to continue: (A)Industry-wide acceptance; (B)Adequate funding; (c)Expanded participation; and (D)Permanent staffing. Already offered: Free office space (courtesy of FrameTek), all necessary office furniture and equipment (donated), transition help from FACTS Trustees, and assistance from PPFA/PMA. It was decided that three committees should be established immediately, to be discussed in the afternoon session.
During the lunch break Jay conducted a tour of his company's offices, retail areas and production shop. That and the comaraderie alone would have made the trip worthwhile.
After lunch we charged ahead with three committees:
Standards Oversight Commmittee (Norm Boris, Nona Powers, Greg Fremstad, Chris Koeppen), to take care of technical development and maintenance of the standards.
Marketing Committee (Stuart Altschuler, Maureen Nolan, Caroline Masters, Jerry Feig), to take care of publications, public relations, and connections to other industries.
Education Committee (Nona Powers, Kerry Wilson, Jim Miller), to develop FACTS educational courses, to get them presented at all venues, and to interface with PPFA chapter events.
Personal comment:
FACTS has always been a great concept. Yesterday's meeting was very encouraging; it's now safe to say that FACTS will continue with renewed enthusiasm.
The high point of the whole day was when Caroline Masters stepped forward with an unexpected FACTS contribution from Nielsen-Bainbridge -- a check for $7,500.00.
Everyone associated with the art and framing industry is invited to participate. In exchange for a little money and volunteer time, you'll have a hand in shaping the future of the industry. You'll work with some of the best and most dedicated framers in the world. You'll learn how to use FACTS guidelines to increase your revenue and profit. And you'll have fun.
