Glen Ellyn, Ill.—The Bearing Specialists Assn. will host its 2004 Annual Convention, "Experience the Influence," at Marriott's Harbor Beach Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., April 24–27.

The business program will feature three speakers, each addressing a different aspect of the association's business focus. Thomas J. Winninger, a well-known business strategist, will speak on market strategies; Jim Pancero, an authority on sales and sales management, will focus on cutting-edge selling processes and strategies for the global marketplace; and John Cassis, a professional baseball player, minister and director of special projects at World Relief, will deliver a motivational presentation to encourage attendees to face adversity, embrace change and meet daily pressures head on. Returning speaker Sten Malmstrom, president of SKF USA, will present an update from the American Bearing Manufacturers Assn.

"This year's convention follows the successful blueprint of our previous conventions, maximizing the working relationship between bearing industry distributors and manufacturers. They are effective partners in addressing the business challenges of the current environment," said Jeri Church, executive secretary of BSA. "BSA is the forum—and has been for nearly 40 years—to address topics of mutual concern. Although the issues are new, BSA continues to offer executive-level leadership for addressing them."

In addition to the scheduled speakers, BSA will welcome a representative from either the National Assn. of Manufacturers, the National Assn. of Wholesaler-Distributors or from Congress to discuss growing concerns over the continued exodus of manufacturing to offshore locations. The organization also will introduce a new strategic plan.

Jeff Burton, one of NASCAR's most successful drivers, with 17 Winston Cup wins and 20 Busch Series wins, will be making a guest appearance at the convention as well.

The convention will feature a working session of conference tables—prescheduled one-on-one meetings between distributors and manufacturers.

The conference schedule also encourages attendees to maximize their participation with informal networking opportunities at social and sporting events, including golf and tennis tournaments and the closing dinner dance.

For more information, visit www.bsaconventions.org.