At a time of uncertainty when information is emerging and evolving regularly, the WA aims to serve its members and streamline news and resources. We understood that this is a stressful time for many and will strive to do what we can to help members
navigate these unprecedented times.
A Letter from Your President
We will get through this together.
That messaging has become ingrained in us over the past month; referring to our world, country, communities, and families. Navigating this new reality has brought immense change to all our lives.
Technology has played a critical role – allowing us to work and live remotely. My daily routine no longer includes a 1 hour plus commute to the office. I typically sit in traffic every morning thinking “if only I could just work from home, imagine
how much happier I would be”. Well, I got my wish and I realize how disconnected I feel. It is wonderful to have breakfast with my wife and kids, I won’t lie about that, but my job requires me to interact with people. There is nothing more
effective than sitting across the table from a group of people all working together towards a common goal. Video and e-messaging can bridge the gap but are no replacement for human relationships.
Last Friday Matthew Jones (Bostrom), Shelly Bixler (National Wallcovering) and I (MDC Interior Solutions) held a call via Zoom. It gave us the opportunity to connect and check in on personal and professional challenges. As we wrapped up our call
Matthew suggested I film a video to the industry with a few messages of encouragement. Great idea! It seemed a reasonable enough suggestion. My intentions were good. The reality of the process proved otherwise. As I sat in my makeshift basement
office, I realized the conditions were less than ideal – barking dogs, terrible acoustics, low lighting and the extra 10 lbs gained through a lack of physical activity. My home office has been rightfully commandeered by my 3 girls whose world
was also turned upside down as they adapt to e-learning and being alienated from friends. Several takes into the video it felt cold and impersonal, and in the end, I was better off with a letter from the heart.
Little issues that may have consumed my focus just a month ago have been filled with a new perspective on what motivates me – the health of loved ones, a roof over my head, food on the table. I have been blessed with all three, and for that I
am thankful.
We realize your day is filled, trying to focus on your companies and welfare of your employees. If you are feeling disconnected or have general concerns the WA is here to listen. Stay in touch with those of us who face similar obstacles – if nothing
else they can relate to what you are going through.
We will get through this. Through all the uncertainty we know deep down the business will come back. When it does, we will be stronger as business and an organization. We are an industry with multi-generation relationships and strong personal
ties. The WA looks ahead as we focus on long term strategy and our 2021 annual meeting. Thankful for the opportunity to get together and spend quality time with an incredible group of people.
Stay healthy, stay safe and be thankful for the things that really matter.
Dan Brandt
President
Business Continuity
Along with his many other contributions to the WA, Jeff Rezin is sharing a business continuity plan with WA members. He developed the plan several years ago during the H1N1 crisis and used them in a class he taught at a local college.
View Jeff's Letter to WA Members
Download the Business Continuity Plan
The U.S. Small Business Administration has also released a New Application Form for the Paycheck Protection Program.
The Treasury Department has published new guidance on the CARE Act Paycheck Protection Act: Business Loan Program Temporary Changes; Paycheck Protection Program
Podcasts
ITR Economics regularly posts blogs and podcasts related to the coronavirus pandemic. The company, who recently joined us at our Annual Meeting, provides economic intelligence, insight, analysis, and strategy.
More Resources
As members of the Association Education Alliance, WA's members can start a 30-day free trial to ISSA's online learning. The free subscription includes video and interactive content related to COVID-19 business continuity, health, safety, and more.
Start Your 30-Day Free Trial
Download a List of Products with Emerging Viral Pathogens and Human Coronavirus Claims for Use Against SARS CoV-2 (as of 5/5/2020)
Download Enforcement Policy for Sterilizers, Disinfectant Devices, and Air Purifiers During COVID-19 (March 2020)
