CAROLINAS

Executive Vlce Presldent

FrgPgPlS from most dealers and rI suppliers still indicate little improvement in business conditions for the two Carolinas. Some areas are reporting increases over last year but these are isolated.

In our travels and telephone conversations, we find most dealers are reporting a drop of from 2090 to 25v/o over l98l figures through September '82. Several areas report that builders of smaller homes (approximately 900 sq. ft. to 1300 sq. ft.) priced from $35,000 to $42,000, seem to be the best movers.

The western part of North Carolina seems to have been less affected by the recession than most. Tourism has been good to very good for that area as well as an influx of Floridians relocating in resort areas. A large percentage of the new homes andlor property sales have involved cash.

Business in the coastal areas of both Carolinas has tailed off dramatically over the last two months. Competition has been so intense in some ofthese areas that profits are marginal.

Most dealers and suppliers we have talked with are mildly optimistic about the remainder of 1982 and believe 1983 will certainly be a better year. Be smart by managing your resources carefully. Be aggressive but don't take the uncalculated risk. Carelessness and poor management will cause an untold number of problems for your business.

The South Carolina Department of Labor, Division of Data Management and Statistics, is sponsoring a series of free workshops designed to help employ-

Heavy Oll

Water borne Pen- ers with I I or more employees understand the record keeping responsibilities mandated by the Occupational Safety and Health Act. These workshops will explain how to keep accurate records on work-related injuries and illnesses required by OSHA.

For more information and workshop dates, contact: Ms. Kathy T. Lybrand, State of South Carolina, Department of Labor, P.O. Box 11329, Columbia, SC 292rr.

STEM, which stands for Stop Thefts of Equipment & Materids, is now holding an organizational membership drive among home builders, othcrs in the construction industry and federal, state and local law enforcement officials. lf the mernbership drive is successful, an organization will be formed with a full-time staff to work for tougher laws against construction site thefts and to develop ways of combuing the current problem.

During the coming weeks, members of various associations connected with the industry will be contacted. A representative from STEM will explain the program and solicit memberships.

CLBMDA supports the program and encourages your participation. I an a founding member and on the board of directors of STEM.

For further information about STEM, contact the CLBMDA office in Charlotte.