EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT James Brown, Esq., Executive Director, MFDA Greetings from Helena. I write this article on a rainy day, and the timing of the rain couldn’t be more of a blessing as it has been a dry few weeks here. In addition, I write this article as summer is coming to a close. So, in keeping with the summer theme, let me start by giving you a fun fact about summer. It is said that pagans called the Midsummer moon the “Honey Moon” in honor of the mead made from fermented honey, which was part of wedding ceremonies performed during the Summer Solstice. Hence our modern use of the term “honeymoon.” The passage of summer reminds us all of how quickly time itself passes. It’s hard to believe that the annual convention has already come and gone. The convention, held in the middle of June in Missoula, proved to be an interesting and informative one. We saw a record in terms of vendor and associate member participation. This development is a testament to the strength of the association and its enduring value to Montana’s funeral providers. Overall, the convention was well-rated by attendees. Initial convention feedback from our members indicates we had very interesting and informative speakers, a meaningful service of remembrance, and plenty of quality interaction between MFDA members and the vendors. We here at MFDA are particularly grateful that Rick Evans with Garden City Funeral Home arranged for a quality pre-convention activity. Those who came to Missoula early were treated to what was truly a new experience for many: axe throwing. A big thanks to Rick and his crew for arranging such a fun and memorable night. Of course, the best part of the annual convention is, as it always is, the opportunity for peer-to-peer contact. I have read extensively about the high value of attending trade conventions and conferences. There is strong consensus that the number one benefit of attending a trade convention identified by attendees was and is the opportunity to interact directly with their professional colleagues. In other words, the opportunity to have face time with their peers is identified as the top reason to attend a state convention. So, too, with MFDA, each year, the annual state convention and trade show presents the best opportunity for members of Montana’s funeral industry to interact with each other and to explore beneficial educational and industry opportunities. I am pleased to write that the MFDA board has already decided where next year’s convention will be held. After receiving much positive feedback and input from our vendors and members about their preference for the convention location, the MFDA board has decided the 2025 annual convention will be held in the Billings area. That’s a Wrap – Another Great MFDA Convention in the Books 6 | Directors Digest
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