Inspiration ran high at Monday’s keynote session officially opening The Rental Show 2012.

The session recognized the role of rental in the rebuilding of New Orleans, following the 2005 Hurricane Katrina. "Ours is an industry of solutions and there was no greater test for us, than the magnitude of this disaster," said Christine Wehrman, American Rental Association (ARA) executive vice president and CEO. "Rebuilding came after the recovery and rental was instrumental in that as well."

Ralph Kastner, Sr., said that the damage to Tuff Equipment Rental in Slidell, La., was much worse than they expected and that money from the ARA Foundation helped replace not only inventory, but office materials. "I can't tell you how much that meant to us."

An induction ceremony for the new 2012 members of the Rental Hall of Fame also was part of the keynote session.

"I'm deeply honored to be induced into the ARA Hall of Fame," said inductee Gunnar Glifberg. "I saw huge potential in rental in general and there was plenty of opportunity for developing the concept more."

The late William "Bill" Berry's son, Scott, along with his family, accepted the award on his behalf. "It's an honor to be here today on behalf of our father to accept this award," he said. "Growing up in our family we had one rule, we all had to be home every night for dinner. My dad traveled for work, but when he was home, he shared amazing quotes and one of his favorites was 'Carpe Diem,' seize the day.' We never know when our time will be up. Whatever it is you want to accomplish, don't wait. Seize the day."

ARA leadership also discussed the association’s outlook for the future, including future economic projections, rental industry metrics, positives from 2011 and looking to the future. "We do have an obligation to the past, but we also have a duty to the future and I hope you will get involved," said Hal Roe, chairman of the ARA board of directors.

ARA President Ted Cook passed the gavel to Mike Flesher, ARA’s incoming president. "My goal as ARA president is to continue to build awareness of our industry," Flesher said.

The trade show floor opened immediately following the keynote session.