Critter Control Conducts 20th Annual Franchise Meeting

Critter Control president Mike Dwyer welcomes former U. S. Navy Blue Angel Lt. Commander Jerry (JD) Deren to the IGFA.

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla – More than140 franchisees, employees and their guests attended this year's annual Critter Control meeting in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla, at the headquarters of the International Game Fish Association Hall of Fame and Museum. Critter Control’s keynote speaker was former U. S. Navy Blue Angel pilot Lt. Commander Jerry Deren. Mr. Deren kept his audience on the edge of their ejection seats as he discussed and outlined the direct correlation between winning an air war and winning in business.

During the three-day event, franchisees attend training workshops designed to inform, educate and share best wildlife pests management and business practices.

Kevin Clark, Critter Control’s founder and CEO, in his State-of-the-Franchise presentation, shared the 24-year journey that’s led Critter Control to becoming the 21st largest pest control operation in the U.S. - with 2005 revenues exceeding $30 million. Dr. George Rambo, a Critter Control franchisee and board member, discussed Avian Flu and potential outbreaks of this deadly strain.

Award ceremonies recognized top performing franchisees in several categories, and top honors overall were awarded to Gene Jezek who operates Critter Control of St Louis. Jezek was awarded Critter Control’s ‘Corporate Citizenship Award.’

While in Florida, franchisees had the opportunity to take an AirBoat Everglades Tour with Gary Mathews (as seen on CSI Miami and The Discovery Channel) and participate in an Offshore Fishing Tournament in the Florida Keys.