From The Strip to Wall Street

The numbers are in, and it's a record. This year's Las Vegas expo was the largest andmost successful yet, with just under 3,000 participants. We'd like to express ourgratitude to all those that have contributed to and frequented the show for making it themost exciting, informative and, hopefully, lucrative event possible for everyone.

If the God of Good Fortune was watching over the tradeshow floor, our exhibitors andattendees all had the opportunity to establish some contacts and contracts that would beprofitable for their business. Let's face it: Las Vegas is fun, but a visit to theinfamous Strip or any of the other local casinos is all about making (and hopefully notlosing) money. So is Wall Street. For those interested learning more about the state offinancing for the self-storage industry, see Tara Collins' article, "A Walk Down WallStreet," where industry experts discuss lending and alternative financing options, aswell as analyze the overall status of this increasingly sophisticated business. NeilGussis, senior vice president for First Security Commerical Mortgage, speaks in greaterdepth about financing and self-storage as he shares his insights in our"One-on-One" interview.

Among the expo's attendees this year were individuals seeking information on gettingstarted in the business. Many are contemplating questions related to purchasing orconstructing facilities--no easy task. Scott Zucker of Weissman & Zucker, P.C.,addresses issues of facility construction in his article about selecting a generalcontractor. The decision to hire a design/build contractor who will both design and erecta project vs. the hire of separate businesses to do so, and the negotiation of aconstruction contract are responsibilities that even the most seasoned owner can finddifficult.

This month's issue also features the second in a new column written by industry guruJim Chiswell, "Thoughts From the Road." Harley Rolfe continues his discussion ofhard-nosed marketing for the self-storage industry, and Cary McGovern outlines the"10 Absolutes for Records-Management Operations."

Finally, now that the delicious mayhem of Las Vegas is over, we look forward to seeingyou at our trade fair and seminar series to be hosted at the Beau Rivage in Biloxi, Miss.,May 6-7. This new property from the owners of The Mirage will be the site of two full daysof educational seminars, exhibits and social gatherings, all with a smashing view of theMississippi Gulf Coast. It's the perfect opportunity to pamper yourself, and improve yourbusiness.

Best wishes until next time,

Teri L. Lanza
Editor