SMI’s no-frills Fall Meeting will combine networking, low cost, and business and technical education seminars in the country’s “frilliest” place, Las Vegas, October 8-10, 2007.
Green Valley Ranch will host the two-day program that is designed to maximize the business climate and minimize the cost of the typical resort-oriented convention extravaganza.
SMI is packaging two program tracks, with sessions for the business minded as well as the technically oriented. To complete the learning and industry experience, SMI is sponsoring a tabletop exhibit of spring industry suppliers with lunch October 9.
Green Valley Ranch provides all the grandeur and excitement that Vegas brings to mind. Yet because it is five miles removed from the strip, the frenetic pace and disturbance is minimized…but still is clearly available. Only minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip, it is an escape that combines exciting casino action and the hottest nightlife with the pampering and relaxation of a luxury resort and spa. Green Valley Ranch will treat you to an experience that is truly close to the action, but a world apart.
Recently awarded the AAA Four Diamond Award and voted Best Local Hotel by the Las Vegas Review Journal, Green Valley Ranch offers a world-class experience. Part of the Station Casino family and a first-class, $300 million dollar resort and casino, the resort is nestled in the bluffs of Green Valley.
Three championship golf courses surround the Ranch, as well as an eight-acre garden -- a rarity in Las Vegas. The gardens feature a state-of-the-art spa with indoor reflecting pools, a vineyard, two tennis courts, two bocce courts, a 3,000-seat amphitheater and a spectacular pool overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.
Did we say, “no frills?” With room rates set at $219/night, springmakers are encouraged to bring other top and middle managers, and supervisors to the program because of the variety of educational topics
Education. Within the two day program, SMI will provide programs that are designed for the technical managers and supervisors at the springmaker’s shop. But a company does not run on technical expertise alone. Tax issues, safety, steel supply and benchmarking will also share prime spots on the agenda.
What isn’t on the agenda? Golf… that’s up to the individual. Expensive structured dinners and a long list of social activities. Each of these activities serves a good purpose, but that’s not what this program is all about.
We’re all about the spring industry and how to make your company as effective as possible in facing today’s economy and global pressures. If we’re worried about the economy, it means recognizing that issue with a program that minimizes the cost to the participating companies.
Regardless of the agenda, one thing hasn’t changed: SMI meetings are still the best place to make important contacts within the spring industry, share experience, and visit with old and new friends. There still will be plenty of time to do just that during breaks, luncheons and evenings.
This program was created with the SMI member company in mind. The new format is the result of member surveys, focus groups and feedback. Your participation and comments about this meeting will guide SMI in the development of future programs.
Health Insurance Cost Containment: MMC Program. George Michelic, Trustmark Health and Life Insurance:SMI members now have a new option for cost containment of employee health insurance coverage, one of the most challenging expense line items in each company’s budget. SMI is one of five metalworking associations cooperating in a health insurance program with Trustmark that offers five PPO plans, and two Health Savings Account (HSA) plans.
Shot Peening Techniques for Quality Control and Processing. David Breuer, Metal Improvement Co.: Learn how modifying the residual stress characteristics of springs alters subsequent spring load and fatigue characteristics. See a comparison of peened and unpeened surfaces to better understand the process and its impact on fatigue life.
Spring Design Software Tips and Techniques. Luke Zubek, SMI, Todd Piefer, UTS:The SMI Advanced Spring Design software program has been upgraded 11 times and now includes many features unavailable in previous versions. There is something for everyone in Version 7. Go through the changes and improvements with the two key individuals who have nurtured the software over the past several years. (Program will be presented on both days.)
Alternative Materials. Lars Andersson, Sandvik Materials Technology, Bill McClenathan, Sumiden Wire Products Corp.:This session will discuss alternatives to commonly-used springmaking materials. New materials, such as SuperDolce age-hardenable stainless steel spring wire and Sandvik Springflex, offer different properties that can impact the manufacture, pricing and development of spring products.
Value Stream Mapping. Jeff Christiaansen, Amana Commercial Products: Many companies have been working “lean” for the past few years, but need to learn how to maximize the benefits and to tie all the tools together. After a session with Christiaansen, practitioners will know how to optimize the use of lean and minimize waste on the factory floor and in the office.
Wednesday, October 10
Track 1
Track 2
Fatigue Testing. Rick Kapaun, Bodycote Testing Group: Fracture mechanics, fracture toughness, low-cycle and high-cycle fatigue, fatigue crack growth rate and component testing are all integral elements of component durability and customer delight.
Free Money, or I’m from the Government and I’m Here to Help - Honestly. William Bujalos, Trade Adjustment Assistance Center. TAA partners with manufacturers by offering 50/50 cost sharing of projects aimed at improving the firm’s competitiveness. Behind the program is the realization that paperwork must be minimized and funds made available with the least amount of strings attached.
Environmentally Friendly Surface Treatment: Daniel Pierre III, JN Machinery Corp.: Environmentally friendly water-based coating has been developed to help springmakers coat products safely, efficiently, in-house and at a low cost. By marrying the coating process to the heat-treat and temper process, there is no additional labor in the manufacturing cycle.
Using Digital Optics for Inspecting 2-D and 3-D Parts: Larry Sheiman, Spring Analysis Systems, a division of DtechXion Ltd.: Repeatability and reproducibility are the two testing dynamics that are usually at the core of disagreements between customers and suppliers in the debate on tolerance measurements. Often, the effects of resolution on R&R create the biggest hurdles in determining true test results. To eliminate these problems, it is necessary to establish a “gold standard” or ideal method of measurement technique.
Wednesday Luncheon Speaker What the Casinos Don’t Want You to Know. David Schwartz Ph.D., director, Center for Gaming Research, University of Nevada Las Vegas: An Atlantic City native and former casino employee, Schwartz has a doctorate in history and is emerging as one of the preeminent historians of gambling. He has written three books and numerous articles on the subject, and has appeared on the CBS Evening News, the Travel Channel, Court TV and the History Channel. In his presentation, Schwartz will start with a thumbnail sketch of casino history, with an emphasis on fun facts and lesser-known details. For instance, he’ll bring to life the real role that Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel played in the Flamingo casino. Next, he’ll discuss the house advantage, then summarize the history and odds of some popular casino games. For an encore, he’ll talk about slot machines and give some tips on playing responsibly and intelligently. Does the house always win? At the end of this talk, you’ll know the truth.
Spring Design Software Tips and Techniques. Luke Zubek, SMI, Todd Peifer, UTS: The SMI Advanced Spring Design software program has been upgraded 11 times and now includes many features unavailable in previous versions. There is something for everyone in Version 7. Go through the changes and improvements with the two key individuals who have nurtured the software over the past several years. (Program will be presented on both days.)
Tabletop Exposition
There is no better place to learn what’s new and what’s going to happen within the industry than through the committed suppliers who are generating the advancements. Admittance to the Tabletop Expo and its continental breakfast on Wednesday is free to those who have registered for the program. Learn about the latest innovations from the following suppliers:
How to Register. SMI will handle all meeting and hotel reservations. For more information, call Lynne Carr, SMI member services, at (630) 495-8588 or e-mail lynne@smihq.org. Registration closed September 4, 2007.
Register by September 4, 2007 for the SMI Fall Meeting.
Hotel Rates. The SMI Fall Meeting group rate at Green Valley Ranch is $219/night plus tax (currently 10%) and a $19.99 resort fee. Rates are based on double occupancy. Based on the hotel’s availability, you may request an Executive Suite at $270.
Reservations must be made no later than September 4. After that date, the hotel will accept reservations based on availability and at the prevailing hotel rate.
Deposit and Cancellation Policy. A one-night deposit of $219 must be received in the SMI office by Sept. 4, 2007. Payment to SMI can be made either by check or credit card. Those who cancel less than two days prior to the event will lose their entire deposit, as Green Valley Ranch has a 48-hour cancellation policy. Those who cancel their registrations after September 4 will incur a $100 nonrefundable registration charge.
Special Needs. Please note on the registration form if you have dietary needs or a disability that may require special assistance or accommodations. We will contact you for details. Car Rental. All major car rental agencies are located at the McCarran Las Vegas airport. Green Valley Ranch is 15-20 minutes from the airport.
Shuttle Service. Green Valley Ranch provides a complimentary shuttle service between the airport and hotel (and between the hotel and the Strip). The shuttle schedule will be included with the SMI Meeting Tips mailing prior to the event.
Outside Transportation Companies. Alan Waxler Group, (702) 792-8000, and Destinations by Design, (702) 798-9555.
About Green Valley Ranch Resort, Casino and Spa
Close to the Action, a World Apart, Means Luxury in Las Vegas
Just minutes away from the Las Vegas Strip, Green Valley Ranch Resort Casino and Spa is a AAA Four Diamond Award-winning escape that combines exciting casino action and the hottest nightlife with the pampering relaxation of a luxury resort and spa.
Entering the tranquil lobby of Green Valley Ranch transports you to an oasis where luxury is the norm. The 490-room Mediterranean-style hotel offers style, comfort and an unrivaled level of personal service. Rooms combine old-world style and modern amenities, like high-speed Internet access, with exceptional panoramic views of the Las Vegas Strip. Green Valley Ranch also offers concierge service to provide everything from a courteous wake-up call to show tickets, reservations and transportation. In between SMI meeting activities, you can unwind at the spa, shop at The District at Green Valley Ranch or experience the thrills of the casino. The facilities and staff at Green Valley Ranch will make your stay comfortable and relaxing.
Green Valley Ranch Casino: A premier gaming destination in Las Vegas, the 55,000-square-foot casino offers glamour and excitement. Inspired by the grand casinos of Europe, it hosts 53 gaming tables and an incredible selection of slot and poker machines. For those who enjoy enhanced betting limits, there is an exclusive high-limit gaming area. The casino also offers a state-of-the-art race and sports book, featuring big-screen TVs and individual monitors to put you in the heat of the action.
Green Valley Ranch Cuisine: Featuring eight sit-down restaurants, Green Valley Ranch provides flawless service and cuisine prepared by some of the nation's most renowned chefs. Dining choices include a casual and sophisticated steak-and-seafood restaurant, which boasts an impressive wine list. You will also find authentic Italian cuisine at Il Forniao. Sushi + Sake serves romance and relaxation, with a range of food for those with adventurous (and not so adventurous) tastes. China Spice is the ultimate Chinese bistro. Irish food with a contemporary twist is prepared at Fadó Irish Pub, and Trophy's is a sports fan and food-lover's paradise. At Feast Around the World buffet, you can watch your meal being prepared before your eyes. For all your breakfast favorites, visit the world-famous Original Pancake House.
Green Valley Ranch Nightlife: A chic and sophisticated nexus of Las Vegas nightlife, the clubs and lounges of Green Valley Ranch offer just the atmosphere to fit your mood.
New York meets Hollywood in Randy Gerber's The Whiskey, which was conceived by celebrity designer Michael Czysz. Here, fashion, music, light and sound merge to create the perfect nightspot for Las Vegas, all with a spectacular view of The Strip.
Moving to the casino, the ultra-hip Drop Bar is the casino's fashionable hub. It is another Michael Czysz creation, this time hosted by the Famous Drop Bar Girls.
In the warmer months, the hotel's "back yard," Whiskey Beach, becomes the perfect eight-acre open-air party environment, with an amphitheater for concerts and events, an outdoor café and one of the most incredible poolside landscapes in Las Vegas.
The Spa at Green Valley Ranch: Whatever level of activity you desire, Green Valley Ranch will provide an experience that will not soon be forgotten. A European spa offering a multitude of therapies, a full-service salon and exercise facilities, it is surrounded by an incredible eight-acre landscape that includes a swimming pool, private poolside cabanas, lawns and vineyards. If golf is your escape of choice, Green Valley Ranch has relationships with some of the world's finest golf courses, located only minutes from the hotel grounds. From the famed Rio Secco Championship course to the Legacy, Dragon Ridge and Troon Golf's Revere, Green Valley Ranch can arrange golf outings to satisfy players of all skill levels. Finally, just steps away from the resort, you will find The District at Green Valley Ranch, which boasts 35 sophisticated shops and nine unique restaurants in a pedestrian-friendly outdoor environment.
