October 10, 2023
Giovanni Femia
Hello and welcome to fall, fellow American Rental Association (ARA) Region One members. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m Giovanni Femia, regional sales manager with Alta Equipment Co. I’m honored to serve as president of the ARA of New York this year and to have this chance to share some industry news with you.
First, I want to thank all of you who recently took action on approving the nominees who will join the ARA Board of Directors next year. As a member-driven association, it’s important that we take part in this process each year. Robert H. Pedersen from A Tool Shed in Santa Cruz, Calif., will become ARA president-elect and Marti Wenzler of Chicago-headquartered Lawson Products will become an ARA associate member director next spring. Join me in welcoming them to our association’s leadership team.
Many of us from across the Northeast rental community were looking forward to a great time at Fenway Park on Sept. 13 for the New York Yankees-Boston Red Sox game. Unfortunately, the ripples from Hurricane Lee had other ideas and the game was a rainout. Thanks to those who did show up; a fun time was had while we waited things out!
Speaking of the hurricane, remember that if your rental store or employees are severely impacted by a natural disaster, the ARA Foundation’s Disaster Relief Grants are available to assist.
Two types of grants are available:
- Business Disaster Relief Grants offer between $500 and $2,500. They are designed to help rental businesses rebuild.
- Employee Disaster Relief Grants range from $500 to $2,000. They can help employees get back on their feet. Business owners must apply for these grants on behalf of their employees.
Things are about to kick into gear in a big way for The ARA Show™ 2024 (Feb. 18-21) in New Orleans. Registration for the show opens Oct. 17. You’ll want to register as early as you can not only to take advantage of the lower incentive rates, but also to make sure you secure tickets to some of the limited-capacity events that tend to sell out. Learn more at ARAshow.org.
Readers of Rental Management will know that in recent issues, the magazine has profiled a variety of rental software providers. The series has been insightful as it allows vendors to discuss their software platforms and how their products benefit rental operations. These profiles are now compiled online in one all-inclusive channel. Check out this month’s issue of In Your Region to learn more about this rental software channel and how to access its content.
Best wishes for a safe and prosperous autumn!
Giovanni Femia, ARA of New York president
Alta Equipment Co.
Albany, N.Y.
518-410-2395
gio.femia@altg.com
