The Professional Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners Association supports the cleaning and restoration industry in the Rocky Mountain region and central states. This was very evident during the recent months that saw enormous wildfires burning in many western states.

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sent out press releases to local media in the affected areas, with the goal of informing the public on the proper way to handle smoke damage and how to find responsible companies to perform the work. The articles were reprinted in local newspapers, and several PCUCA members were interviewed by TV news programs that picked up the story. Readers and viewers were directed to PCUCA members IICRC-certified in smoke restoration to address their smoke-damage needs.

In June, PCUCA President Tom Wolfe congratulated Jim Miller of DuraClean in the Colorado Springs, Colo. area for hosting the first "After 5" in that locale. During the event, Allen McNabb announced the schedule for the next six months, Brent Clark gave a workshop on carpet repairs, and we shared topics of local interest over dinner. For dates and locations of future After 5s, call (877) 447-2822 or visit www.pcuca.org.

The PCUCA is co-sponsor with the Carpet & Fabricare Institute (CFI) for the 2002 Convention and Trade Show "Discover the Wealth" in Sacramento, Calif., Aug. 15-17. For more information, call (888) 227-9127 or visit www.carpet9.org. This is the largest convention this year for the carpet cleaning professional! To find out more information about the activities of the PCUCA and membership in this organization, check the website at www.pcuca.org.