AFA Holds Annual MeetingThe American Floorcovering Alliance (AFA) recently held its 23rd annual
membership meeting and awards dinner at the NorthWest Georgia TradeandConvention Center, Dalton,
Ga. Bob Kokoszka, Burtco Enterprises, who has served as president for the past two years, turned
over his office to Jim Shaheen, Shaheen Carpet Mills. New members were welcomed, and outgoing
officers and directors were honored for exceptional service and support over the past year. Also on
the agenda was the official launch of AFAs website, www.americanfloor.org.Kokoszka said AFA
continues to be successful and financially sound, with many new things happening or in the planning
stages. He commended Wanda Ellis, executive director, and Stephanie Manis, executive assistant, for
their efforts and hard work. Shaheen echoed Kokoszka’s comments and praised the organization for a
job well-done. He talked about some of the association’s programs and its evolution over the past
23 years. The international marketing programs have been coming along nicely, he said, citing
visits to Domotex in Germany, as well as to China, the United Kingdom and Brazil.Awards were
presented to 20-year and 10-year members. Speakers included Reg Burnett, retired from RBI.AFAs
2002-2003 officers, besides Shaheen, are: Vice President Don Henson, DyeTech Inc.; and
Secretary/Treasurer Bill Cosby, The Sample Works. Directors for the same period are: Bucky McCamy,
Grass-Tex; Carolyn Butler, Carpeton Mills; Greg Brock, Quality Finishing of Georgia; Greely Joiner,
H. Greely Joiner LLC; and Randy Coker, Northwest Carpets.Directors for terms expiring in 2004 are:
Ed Harof, Wilcom America; Sues Alexander, BBandT; Will Robison, Allied Insurance Agency; and Lamar
Brown, LESSCO.By Peggy Whaley,Carpet Editor
December 2002
