June 2018

Page B14 JUNE 2018 FUNERAL HOME & CEMETERY NEWS S ec t i on B Continued from Page B13 As in past years, the event was highly rated by at- tendees, with 95 percent indicating their overall con- vention experience was “excellent” or “very good,” and 80 percent indicating they “definitely” or “prob- ably” will attend the ICCFA 2019 Annual Conven- tion in Charlotte, NC. Over 83 percent of exhibitors rated their overall expo- sition experience as favorable. When asked about their plans next year, 62 percent indicated they planned to ex- hibit at the 2019 ICCFA Annual Convention & Expo. Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Crema- tion and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the ceme- tery, cremation, funeral and memorialization profession. Its membership is composed of more than 9,100 rooftop locations and 20,000 professionals in the cemetery, fu- neral home and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide. CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS “This [was] my first conference, I can say that it was smooth transition throughout. Very friendly, helpful and knowledge staff.” –Myra Turner, Funeraria Azahares Funeral Home, Sierra Vista, AZ Dr. Joe Marsaglia is shown with Tom Flynn and his son Robert, a PIMS alumnus, along with grief therapy dog Solomon Dr. Joe Marsaglia, dean and COO of Pittsburgh In- stitute of Mortuary Science, recently attended the 2018 ICCFA convention in Las Vegas. One of the highlights of his trip was attending the ICCFA Educational Foundation Reception honoring donors and scholarship recipients. At the reception, the ICCFA Educational Foundation “Lasting Impact Award” was bestowed to Tom Flynn. Creator of the famous Avenue of 444 Flags, and the War on Terror Memorial, as well as placing the first Ca- nine Companions for Independence grief dog into a fu- neral home, Tom’s dedication to honor those who have died in the name of freedom and teach future genera- tions of the high price of that freedom, is a testament to his vision, morale code and character. Flynn, owner of Flynn Funeral Home & Crematory Inc in Hermitage, PA, Flynn Pet Funeral Home and Crematory, and America’s Cemetery, stopped by the PIMS booth to say hello. DR. JOE MARSAGLIA ATTENDS CONVENTION ICCFA Annual Convention Went “All In” in Las Vegas Submitted by Cate Collins Submitted by Laura Holland