When the economy has needed a boost, Bush noted in his keynote address, “The housing industry has always been in the forefront of market recovery.” He said the industry was thriving in the changing landscape of the global business economy and helping to build the American dream for many new home owners.
Much of Bush’s talk was lighthearted as he reminisced about his years in the White House. He poked fun at comedian Dana Carvey with a spot-on imitation of the comedian imitating him and brought up the infamous dining incident with the Prime Minister of Japan. "I don't know why that is what people remember most about my presidency," he mused.
With his presidency behind him, Bush said he was at that point "where family is the most important part of my life,” and he said he was proud of all of his children, including his two sons in elected office.
Regarding the current President Bush, the former president said, “I don’t give advice to the President unless he calls me.” Barbara, he joked, is much less reluctant to hold back. “She’s constantly telling him to take his feet off the table.”
The grand opening ceremonies also included an entertainment and pyrotechnic extravaganza. Former Rep. Guy Vander Jagt (R-MI) was the emcee and led the audience on a search to find the "Magic of America," which featured the Citrus Singers and Dancers.
Also during the show, special guest Julie Burke, who’s husband died in the World Trade Center attack on Sept. 11, thanked NAHB and its members for their tremendous support. Burke and her four sons were the recipients of NAHB’s relief fund, which was established to help surviving family members in the aftermath of the attack.
Builders’ Show Facts
- 104,627 attendees
- 1,640 total exhibitors
- 405 new exhibitors
- 1.6 million square feet of convention center space — more than 40 football fields
- 1,524 students attended the NAHB Student Chapters awards ceremony.
- Four lucky IBS attendees rode home on a brand new Harley-Davidson motorcycle they won in the Harley-A-Day Giveaway.
- Vegas legends Elvis, Marilyn Monroe and Sammy Davis Jr. were rumored to be in attendance.
For more highlights and photographs, vist the 2004 International Builders’ Show Web page.
Photos by Oscar and Associates
Next Year in Orlando
The 2005 International Builders’ Show is scheduled for Jan. 13-16 in Orlando, FL. Visit our Web site for more information.
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