The World's Premier Bearing Industry Event for authorized distributors of bearing products and services and the manufacturers of those products.

Convention News


For Immediate Release

Date: March 24, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838

BSA: Time Running Out to Register for “A Look Back to Step Ahead”

Glen Ellyn, IL—The Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) is reminding industry leaders that the registration deadline for its 2010 Annual Convention, “A Look Back to Step Ahead,” is March 31. The convention will take place May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort & Spa, Naples, Florida. Deadline for room reservations is also March 31.

With a record number of attendees already registered, the association is aware that participation in the 2010 event is a priority for many distributors and manufacturers. Scheduled early in the recovery from a grueling recession, BSA believes there has never been a more important time for industry leaders to meet and has carefully planned a business program based on the business expertise of past and present BSA leaders as well as their view of the bearing industry’s future.

On Sunday, May 2nd, a panel of past industry leaders will provide the “Look Back,” discussing industry and economic lessons learned throughout the past twenty years, including their reflection on six different key topics of interest to the bearing industry. Attendees will cast their honest and anonymous vote on audience response questions, facilitated by rapid-response electronics that will instantly reveal onscreen distributor and manufacturer responses as categories, not individuals.

Later that same day, a second panel will present the Present Industry Overview, elaborating on the six key topics introduced by the Past Leaders Panel. Their analysis will shed light on how and why the bearing industry has evolved over the years, strictly focusing on what works and what doesn’t.

On Monday morning, a Future Panel of current industry leaders will address the results of Sunday’s immediate audience responses and bring the audience from the present to the future with their engaging and innovative opinions.

BSA believes that both distributor and manufacturer attendees will find this is the conversation they want to be a part of. When you learn what your industry past and future leaders are thinking, you will be ready to exceed their needs and expectations as well as yours and those of the end-user.

Beyond the panel presentations, the 2010 Annual Convention will also offer important industry updates from ABMA and BSA, and the traditional Conference Tables Session featuring pre-scheduled and planned conferences between distributors and manufacturers designed to resolve issues of mutual concern.

In addition to the business program, BSA convention attendees consistently rate the informal networking opportunities at the convention and related social events to be one of the most valuable aspects of the annual event.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: March 18, 2010

CONTACT: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838

BSA Conference Table Participation Growing

Glen Ellyn, IL—Attendees at the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) Annual Conventions have always ranked the Conference Tables Session as one of the event’s most valuable opportunities, because they offer participants a unique opportunity for face-to-face meetings to address bearing industry concerns and resolve business problems. The 2010 Annual convention May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida, is no exception.

The economics of the recent recession have made the opportunity for face-to-face meetings with a number of industry peers especially valuable. This year’s Conference Tables Session is scheduled for Tuesday, May 4th and some times and tables are quickly filling.

Conference Table online registration is available to all attendees as soon as they register for the Annual Convention. BSA’s automated system assigns a conference table to manufacturers as soon as one person from the company registers for the meeting. Distributors are encouraged to sign up for conference table sessions as soon as they register so that they may plan with the manufacturer to make the 25-minute meetings as productive as possible. Once all of a manufacturer’s time “slots” are full, the system automatically assigns another table, opening up another bank of conference sessions.

In addition to the Conference Tables Session, a dynamic business program and significant networking opportunities make the Annual Convention a priority for top tier executives in the bearing industry.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: March 10, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838

BSA: Convention Pre-Registration Up in 2010

Glen Ellyn, IL—When the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) calls its 2010 Annual Convention to order in May, it will be to a record number of attendees who have already registered for the May 1-4 event at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida. Despite a sometimes “hesitant” economic recovery, the association has pre-registered more attendees than in previous years and anticipates a number of registrations to come. The association’s 2010 Winter Board and Committee Meetings also enjoyed record attendance.

BSA believes there has never been a more important time for industry leaders to meet. Overall economic indicators continue to trend up, and prospects for recovery within the industry are promising. An independent study by the Freedonia Group, LLC projects ball, roller and plain bearing demand in the U.S. will expand 3.0-percent annually through 2013 to $10.6 billion. The challenge, BSA believes, is preparing to leverage this growth. The 2010 annual event, “A Look Back to Step Ahead,” features a dynamic program of industry leaders participating in a series of three panels examining past challenges, current business trends, and prospects for the future.

In addition to the panel presentations, attendees will hear a BSA Industry Update from Steve Durston, Vice President, Jamaica Bearings Company, Inc.; an ABMA Update from Bruce Warmbold, President & CEO, Schaeffler Group; a presentation by economist Don Reynolds on “The New Normal;” and a very timely presentation on counterfeit bearings.

BSA’s manufacturer-hosted Conference Table Session on Tuesday morning, May 4th offers participants a unique opportunity for face-to-face meetings to address bearing industry concerns and resolve business problems. Convention attendees find these short, 25-minute meetings to be increasingly productive. Conference Table online registration is available to all attendees as soon as they register for the Annual Convention.

BSA offers a singular opportunity for networking with top tier executives throughout the bearing industry. Attendees regularly cite the opportunity to meet face-to-face with industry peers as a key take-away from every association event.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: February 25, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838

BSA 2010 Convention Features Key Industry Updates

Glen Ellyn, IL—Attendees at the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) 2010 Annual Convention May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida, will hear a timely pair of industry-specific updates from BSA and the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA). The updates are just one aspect of a dynamic business program built around the 2010 convention theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead,” which recognizes and builds on BSA’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities and markets in the recovering economy.

Both industry-specific updates are planned for Sunday May 2nd. The first is an update on the bearing industry from the distributor perspective, including key aggregate data from the 2010 BSA Distributor Report. Steve Durston, Vice President of Jamaica Bearings Company, Inc., will make this important presentation. The BSA Distributor Report Survey was developed so that a true picture of the importance of BSA's distributor members to the industry could be determined. The survey is concerned with the industries served by member companies and the product categories of Bearing sales only. The results are a valuable resource in recognizing market trends.

The second presentation, also on Sunday, is an update on the bearing industry from the perspective of the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA). Bruce Warmbold, President and CEO of Schaeffler Group North America since 1992, will report. Warmbold has been a member of the ABMA Board for the last 17 years and is presently a member of its Executive Committee. He has also been a board member of CoLinx since its inception in 2001. The ABMA industry update is a tradition at BSA Annual Conventions and offers attendees a close look at the industry overall.

The 2010 Annual Convention will also offer a trio of important panels on the past, present and future of the industry, each led by industry executives, and the traditional Conference Tables Session featuring pre-scheduled and planned conferences between distributors and manufacturers designed to resolve issues of mutual concern. In addition to the business program, BSA convention attendees consistently rate the informal networking opportunities at the convention and related social events to be one of the most valuable aspects of the annual convention.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org.

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For Immediate Release

Date: February 16, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA Convention Speaker: The New Normal


Glen Ellyn, IL—When the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) 2010 Annual Convention convenes May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida, attendees will hear a presentation by economist Don Reynolds on “The New Normal.”

Reynolds believes that we are now looking at transformational change. Although the corporate mantra for this year has been "If we can just hold on, one of these days things will get back to normal," Reynolds believes this is the new normal.

The Reynolds presentation is a perfect topic for the association’s convention, which has adopted the theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead” to recognize and build on BSA’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities and markets in the recovering economy.

A past Pension Board Chairman responsible for over $120 Billion in Pension & Trust Funds, Don Reynolds understands how important personal accountability and bottom line performance are. In 1986 he founded 21st Century Forecasting, a research company focusing on long term global, economic, demographic, and technology trends. He has personally advised some of the wealthiest families in America. Reynolds has a Masters Degree in Public Administration/Planning, a Doctoral background in Economics, and is a graduate of the Securities Industry Institute of the Wharton School. He also has an honorary degree from the University of Moscow.

Despite the recent economic challenges, BSA welcomed a record number of attendees to its 2010 Winter Board and Committee Meetings in Tampa, Florida, setting the stage for what association leaders anticipate will be an equally successful 2010 Annual Convention. Business programming for the 2010 event is planned to give attendees the necessary tools to maximize their recovery from the recession, including a trio of panel discussions on the industry’s past, present and future and the best tools for building on success as we move into the new decade. The schedule also calls for industry updates from BSA and the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA) along with a very timely presentation on counterfeit bearings.

BSA’s manufacturer-hosted Conference Table Session on Tuesday morning, May 4th offers participants a unique opportunity for face-to-face meetings to address bearing industry concerns and resolve business problems. Convention attendees find these short, 25-minute meetings to be increasingly productive. Conference Table online registration is available to all attendees as soon as they register for the Annual Convention.

In addition to the substantive business program, convention attendees will have ample time for informal industry networking at golf and tennis events, receptions and dinners.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: February 11, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA Convention Registration Savings End March 1st


Glen Ellyn, IL—The Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) is encouraging prospective 2010 Convention attendees to register early for the annual event planned for May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, Naples, Florida. Attendees must register by March 1st to take advantage of Early Bird Savings. After that date, registration fees go up by $75.00 per person.

The Early Bird registration fee is just one of a number of financial incentives adding to the value of attending the world’s premier bearing industry event for authorized distributors of bearing products and services and the manufacturers of those products. Attendees who register a spouse or companion save an additional $50 off their attendee registration fee. As an added bonus, room rates at the luxurious Naples Grande Beach Resort have been reduced to $199 from $275, a truly remarkable rate for one of the world class properties in the Waldorf Astoria Collection.

Despite the challenges of the recent economy, BSA welcomed a record number of attendees to its recent Winter Board and Committee Meetings in Tampa, Florida, setting the stage for what association leaders anticipate will be an equally successful 2010 Annual Convention. Experienced convention attendees understand that the Annual Convention offers unparalleled networking among industry leaders and what many of them refer to as their “most valuable sales call all year.”

Business programming for the 2010 event is planned to give attendees the necessary tools to maximize their recovery from the recession. The schedule calls for a trio of panel discussions on the industry’s past, present and future and the best tools for building on success as we move into the new decade. The schedule also calls for industry updates from BSA and the American Bearing Manufacturers Association (ABMA) along with a very timely presentation on counterfeit bearings.

BSA’s manufacturer-hosted Conference Table Session on Tuesday morning, May 4th offers participants a unique opportunity for face-to-face meetings to address bearing industry concerns and resolve business problems. Convention attendees find these short, 25-minute meetings to be increasingly productive. Conference Table online registration is available to all attendees as soon as they register for the Annual Convention.

In addition to the substantive business program, convention attendees will have ample time for informal industry networking at golf and tennis events, receptions and dinners.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date:  February 5, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA: Leveraging the Recovery at 2010 Annual Convention


Glen Ellyn, IL-- The Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) believes there is no better time for industry leaders to meet than at its upcoming 2010 Annual Convention May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida. Although economic indicators continue to trend up, and prospects within the industry are promising, experts predict a bumpy recovery. The BSA Annual Convention offers an opportunity unlike any other for those companies looking to best leverage the economic recovery.

Because there is nothing like shared past experience -- including the impact of a grueling recession and other economic realities -- to help us confront the next challenge, BSA’s 2010 Annual Convention has adopted the theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead” to recognize and build on BSA’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities in the recovering economy.

The convention zeroes in on the recovery with an exceptionally dynamic business program:

Throughout these sessions and at social events, attendees will have the advantage of unparalleled networking among industry peers.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org.  For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: January 7, 2010

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA Conference Table Registration Opens February 1st


Glen Ellyn, IL—Registration for the Conference Table Sessions at the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) 2010 Annual Convention, May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Resort & Club, Naples, Florida, opens February 1, 2010. Registration is facilitated online via a link from the 2010 Convention website, www.bsaconventions.org.

Conference Tables offer participants a unique opportunity to pre-schedule and plan for face-to-face meetings between distributors and manufacturers to address bearing industry concerns and resolve business problems. They are considered one of the most valuable aspects of any BSA Annual Convention business program. Convention attendees find these short, 25-minute meetings to be particularly productive in the current recession-wracked economy, since they eliminate additional investments in travel and time.

Only those distributors who have registered to attend the 2010 Annual Convention may make Conference Table appointments. At least one person from a participating manufacturer must be registered for the Annual Convention, before a Conference Table will be assigned to the company. Distributors are encouraged to let manufacturers with whom they have made appointments know what they expect to discuss with the manufacturers to ensure they have the most productive session possible.

Convention attendees are strongly encouraged to register for Conference Table Sessions before Monday, April, 19, 2010. Online registration will remain open until April 30th. After the start of the convention, attendees wishing to schedule Conference Table Sessions may only do so if space is available onsite May 1 & 2 at the BSA registration desk which closes at 7:00 p.m. May 2nd.

In addition to the Conference Table Sessions, BSA’s 2010 Annual Convention offers an exceptionally dynamic business program beginning with a series of member-led panels on the past, present and future of the bearing industry, important industry updates from ABMA and BSA, and an interesting and timely presentation on counterfeit bearings based on real-world experience. Throughout these sessions, attendees will have the advantage of unparalleled networking among industry peers.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: December 17, 2009

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838

BSA 2010 Convention Delivers Real Dollar Value


Glen Ellyn, IL—The Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) is delivering savings and value to the industry-leading distributors and manufacturers attending its 2010 Annual Convention by offering significant savings on Early Bird registration until February 1, 2010, a budget-minded room rate of just $199 at a top luxury resort, bonus savings for registering a spouse, and the opportunity to make one of the most efficient, productive sales calls all year!

For starters, attendees for the premier bearing industry event for authorized distributors of bearing products and services and the manufacturers of those products who register before February 1, 2010, can deduct $75 from the registration fee. Because only senior management attend the BSA Convention, participation allows information sharing and networking among peers. Many attendees refer to the Annual Convention as their “best sales call” all year.

To make convention attendance even more affordable, BSA has negotiated an outstanding room rate of $199 per night at the Naples Grande Beach Resort– down from $275 per night – making a hotel of this caliber a remarkable value. The Naples Grande Beach Resort was recently made part of the World Renowned Waldorf Astoria Collection which Hilton considers synonymous with attentive service, luxury accommodations and exclusive destinations. It is considered one of Hilton's top luxury accommodations. The Naples Grande Beach Resort, set along the stunning Gulf Coast of Florida, is a truly relaxing destination with dynamic tennis, golf, and water-side entertainment for all ages.

The savings continue for attendees who include their spouses in their convention registration. Experienced convention attendees tell us that their spouse is a valuable asset in helping them network and build relationships on a personal level. In many cases, the socializing among spouses at BSA networking and social events leads to additional personal contacts among convention attendees. Because spouses are so important to the industry, attendee members and manufacturers will save $50 on their registration fee when registering with their spouse!

BSA has adopted the theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead” to recognize and build on the association’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities and markets in the recovering economy. Programming has been built around three panels of BSA member distributors and participating manufacturers who will examine the past, the present and the future of the industry. The 2010 Annual Convention will also offer important industry updates from ABMA and BSA, an interesting and timely presentation on counterfeit bearings based on real-world experience, and the traditional Conference Tables Session featuring pre-scheduled and planned conferences between distributors and manufacturers designed to resolve issues of mutual concern.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: December 10, 2009

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA Taps Association Leadership for Industry Panels


Glen Ellyn, Il—When the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) convenes its 2010 Annual Convention May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort in Naples, Florida, attendees will get the benefit of years of industry expertise from BSA leaders past and present who have committed to participating in a group of panels to look at the past, present and future of the industry.

On Sunday, a panel of past industry leaders, led by moderator Bill Childers, President of North American Sales, Rexnord Industries, LLC , will provide the “Look Back,” discussing industry and economic lessons learned throughout the past twenty years, including their reflection on six different key topics of interest to the bearing industry. Manufacturer Panelists will be Gus Kontonickas, NSK Precision Americas/The Timken Corporation/Loctite Industrial Div. Henkel Technologies/Thomson Industries, Inc.; Jamie Martin, The Timken Corporation/Torrington; and Gene Yarussi, Emerson Power Transmission. Distributor Panelists will be Lathrop Smith, Industrial Supplies, Inc.; Tom Miller, Motion Industries, Inc.; and Tom Brown, Applied Industrial Technologies/Associated Bearings Company.

Attendees will cast their honest and anonymous comments on audience response questions, facilitated by rapid-response electronics that will instantly reveal onscreen distributor and manufacturer responses as categories, not individuals.

Also on Sunday, Mike Arnold, Executive Vice President & President of the Bearings & Power Transmission Group at The Timken Company, and Bill Purser, President & COO of Applied Industrial Technologies, will present the Present Industry Overview, elaborating on the six key topics introduced by the Past Leaders Panel. Their analysis will shed light on how and why the bearing industry has evolved over the years, strictly focusing on what works and what doesn’t.

On Monday morning, a Future Panel of current industry leaders, lead by moderator Jeff Ramras, Vice President of Marketing & Supply Chain Management, Applied Industrial Technologies, will address the results of Sunday’s immediate audience responses and bring the audience from the present to the future with their engaging and innovative opinions. Manufacturer panelists will be Michael Cinquemani, Baldor-Dodge-Reliance; Don Poland, SKF Service Division; and Chris Curran, Climax Metal Products Company. Distributor panelists will be Rex Davis, IBT, Inc.; Mitch Bouchard, General Bearing Services Inc.; and Carl James, BDI.

BSA believes that both distributor and manufacturer attendees will find this is the conversation they want to be a part of as they navigate their company's way out of the recession and into a more prosperous future. When you learn what your industry past and future leaders are thinking, you will be ready to exceed their needs and expectations as well as yours and those of the end-user.

The 2010 Annual Convention will also offer important industry updates from ABMA and BSA, an interesting and timely presentation on counterfeit bearings based on real-world experience, and the traditional Conference Tables Session featuring pre-scheduled and planned conferences between distributors and manufacturers designed to resolve issues of mutual concern.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org. ###

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For Immediate Release

Date: November 17, 2009

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA Opens 2010 Annual Convention Registration and Website

Glen Ellyn, IL—The Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) has opened registration for the association’s 2010 Annual Convention, A Look Back to Step Ahead, set for May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort, in Naples, Florida, with the launch of the convention website at www.bsaconventions.org.

Realizing the heavy time demands on the industry leaders who regularly attend the BSA Annual Convention, the association has fine-tuned the functionality of the convention website, making a wealth of information available 24/7. Among the innovations for 2010, site visitors can view a brief video highlighting previous BSA Annual Conventions, the Naples Grande Beach Resort, and preview this year’s event. The website also identifies those companies that have already registered for the 2010 Annual Convention.

In addition to general information about programming and social activities, the website links to the Naples Grande Beach Resort, a member of the Waldorf Astoria Collection, for room reservations and to the association for convention registration. From February 1st through April 1st, the website will also allow distributor attendees to register online for the all-important Conference Table Sessions with participating manufacturers. The pre-planned, one-on-one meetings between distributors and manufacturers are one of the convention’s most highly-regarded events.

BSA believes there has never been a more important time for industry leaders to meet than at the upcoming Annual Convention. Because there is nothing like shared past experience -- including the impact of a grueling recession and other economic realities -- to help us confront the next challenge, BSA’s 2010 Annual Convention has adopted the theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead” to recognize and build on BSA’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities and markets in the recovering economy.

In addition to offering details about the business program and registration convenience, the BSA convention website serves up substantial information about social activities, dress codes, and links to area attractions. Because spouses traditionally play a significant role at the BSA Annual Convention, additional information has been included for their convention planning. BSA believes the website has become an essential tool for attendees in making the most of their time and financial investment in the Annual Convention.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org.

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For Immediate Release

Date: November 4, 2009

Contact: Janet Arden, publications editor, janeta@cmservices.com, (630) 858-3838


BSA 2010 Annual Convention “A Look Back to Step Ahead”


Glen Ellyn, IL --Because there is nothing like shared past experience --including the impact of a grueling recession and other economic realities --to help us confront the next challenge, the Bearing Specialists Association (BSA) 2010 Annual Convention, May 1-4 at the Naples Grande Beach Resort and Spa, Naples, Florida, has adopted the theme “A Look Back to Step Ahead” to recognize and build on the association’s 44 years of industry leadership as it looks ahead to new opportunities and markets in the recovering economy.

BSA believes there has never been a more important time for industry leaders to meet. Overalleconomic indicators continue to trend up. Prospects for recovery within the industry are promising. An independent study by the Freedonia Group, LLC projects ball, roller and plain bearing demand in the U.S. will expand 3.0-percent annually through 2013 to $10.6 billion. As economic news continues to develop, the most important question is: how prepared are you to leverage this growth?

The goal of the 2010 Annual Convention is to help attendees answer that question with a 3-part presentation:

1. On Sunday, a panel of past industry leaders will provide the “Look Back,” discussing industry and economic lessons learned throughout the past twenty years, including their reflection on six different key topics of interest to the bearing industry. Moderated by Bill Childers, President of North American Sales, Rexnord Industries, LLC, Manufacturer Panelists will be Gus Kontonickas, NSK Precision Americas/The Timken Corporation/Loctite Industrial Div. Henkel Technologies/Thomson Industries, Inc.; Jamie Martin, The Timken Corporation/Torrington; and Gene Yarussi, Emerson Power Transmission. Distributor Panelists will be Lathrop Smith, Industrial Supplies, Inc.; Tom Miller, Motion Industries, Inc.; and Tom Brown, Applied Industrial Technologies/Associated Bearings Company. Attendees will cast their honest and anonymous vote on audience response questions, facilitated by rapid-response electronics that will instantly reveal onscreen distributor and manufacturer responses as categories, not individuals.

2. Also on Sunday, Mike Arnold, Executive Vice President & President of the Bearings & Power Transmission Group at The Timken Company, and Bill Purser, President & COO of Applied Industrial Technologies, will present the Present Industry Overview, elaborating on the six key topics introduced by the Past Leaders Panel. Their analysis will shed light on how and why the bearing industry has evolved over the years, strictly focusing on what works and what doesn’t. Utilize their knowledge and insight to navigate your company's way out of the recession.

3. On Monday morning, a Future Panel of current industry leaders, lead by moderator Jeff Ramras, Vice President of Marketing & Supply Chain Management, Applied Industrial Technologies, will address the results of Sunday’s immediate audience responses and bring the audience from the present to the future with their engaging and innovative opinions.

BSA believes that both distributor and manufacturer attendees will find this is the conversation they want to be a part of. When you learn what your industry past and future leaders are thinking, you will be ready to exceed their needs and expectations as well as yours and those of the enduser.

The 2010 Annual Convention will also offer important industry updates from ABMA and BSA, and the traditional Conference Tables Session featuring pre-scheduled and planned conferences between distributors and manufacturers designed to resolve issues of mutual concern.

Naples Grande Beach Resort

The Naples Grande Beach Resort, located on 23 waterfront acres along the Gulf Coast in Naples, Florida is a proud member of the Hilton family and The Waldorf Astoria Collection. This property “sets the standard” for surrounding Naples hotels, treating guests and families to endless activities, incredible nearby sights, and an unmatched level of service and attention. Guests enjoy a three-mile stretch of powdery sand, stretching from the mangroves at Clam Pass Park to the tranquil waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The Naples Grande Beach Resort is just minutes from trendy shopping, thrilling attractions, and the Caribbean Gardens and Florida Everglades. Resort amenities include the Naples Grande Golf Club, an extraordinary 18-hole, par 72 course, 15 Har- Tru tennis courts, a state-of-the-art fitness center, the luxurious Golden Door Spa, and five premium restaurants. Ideally located seven miles northwest of Naples Municipal Airport (APF), the Naples Grande Beach Resort is just a short ride from Fort Myers and two hours from South Beach and Miami, Florida, for those who want to venture a little farther away.

Especially for Spouses

BSA values – and welcomes – the participation of attendee spouses or companions at the 2010 Annual Convention. Experienced convention attendees tell us that their spouse is a valuable asset in helping them network and build relationships on a personal level. In many cases, the socializing among spouses leads to additional personal contacts among convention attendees. Because spouses are important to BSA events, members and participating manufacturers who register with their spouse/companion for the 2010 Annual Convention save $50 on registration. Spouses are welcome at all Annual Convention events. In addition, because Naples offers so many opportunities for shopping, relaxing, exploring the arts and nature, BSA has compiled a lengthy list of activity options on the convention website, with appropriate links so that spouse/companions may plan their own time. Because these diversions are more fun with friends, BSA has added a link to the association’s Electronic Address Book, so spouses can readily connect with other BSA friends as they make plans.

Social Activities

In addition to the business program, BSA convention attendees consistently rate the informal networking opportunities at the convention and related social events to be one of the most valuable aspects of the annual event. The opening reception and manufacturer appreciation event offer informal socializing and networking. On Sunday afternoon, the BSA Men’s and Women’s Tennis Round Robin event, chaired by Tom and Lori Olson, Bearing Engineering Company, welcomes all levels of play to the hotel’s courts. On Monday, BSA will host its traditional golf tournament at the Naples Grande Golf Club. This event is chaired by Andy Nations, Bearings & Drives, Inc. A pair of fishing events, chaired by Howard Gainey, Bearings & Drives, Inc., on Sunday and Monday afternoons offers the opportunity to meet with and enjoy other convention attendees as well as the outstanding sporting options of the Naples area. This year the convention closes with the BSA’s Got Talent Dinner Dance, a salute to BSA’s lighter side produced by Convention Co-Chair Kaye Negri and featuring live skits and videos from past conventions followed by dancing with DJ Randy.

2010 Convention Committee

BSA’s 2010 Annual Convention Committee is chaired by Peter and Kaye Negri, Jamaica Bearings Company, Inc. Committee members are Eduardo and Rosy Bichara, Baleromex, S.A. de C.V.; Howard and Teresa Gainey, Bearings & Drives, Inc.; Alfredo Bichara, Baleromex, S.A. de C.V.; and Bill and Laurie Childers, Rexnord Industries, LLC.

BSA is the “must belong to organization for authorized bearing distributors.” An international service and educational organization of distributors representing a total of almost 100 companies distributing factory-warranted ball-, roller-, and anti-friction bearings and invited manufacturers of bearings and related products, the association’s mission says, “BSA is the forum to enhance networking and knowledge sharing and promote the sale of bearings through authorized distributors.” For more information about the BSA 2010 Annual Convention and/or to register, please visit the convention website, www.bsaconventions.org. For more information on BSA contact the BSA office at (630) 858-3838; fax (630) 790-3095; email info@bsahome.org or visit the association website at www.bsahome.org.


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