If you have been checking the daily updates at KiteLife.com, you know that there were big and productive changes at KTA’s little show this year.

Last week I observed that this was a critical period for the Kite Trade Association. They have been losing members and momentum steadily over the past four years, and with the hiring of a new management company that didn’t quite work out, many of us wondered if the group would even survive the 2007 gathering without a motion to disband.

The KTA Board stepped up with a series of dramatic proposals for organizational change. They returned to an experienced, kite-oriented management firm. They eliminated old rules dictating that smaller firms could join but not vote in the Association. They streamlined the Board and committees. And they revamped budgets so that the minimum dues level dropped from $150 to just $50. The aim was to reduce barriers to participation and encourage any legitimate kite business to be part of the process.

From the beginning, the Albuquerque convention seemed upbeat and enthused. Participation was certainly lower than past years. Exhibitors reserved smaller spaces which meant the overall show seemed smaller. But by concentrating the selling program into two compact days, hotel and food costs were reduced. A smaller exhibit hall seemed more full and more exciting. And the Board made the surprising choice to move to an urban setting where all convention programs – trade show, educational programs, and banquets – could be held in one hotel. This meant you were constantly in contact with kite people – in the bar, in the hallways, and even in the elevator.

Midway through the Show, a small group of women took Susie to lunch. I’d been elected to the Board last January, and I’d promised my wife that at the end of the 2006 transitional year, I would resign to focus on our own business. KTA was still looking at problems with several Board vacancies, no candidates, and a management contract expiring in four weeks.

I’m not completely sure what was said at this meeting, but when she came back, we had a full slate of Board candidates, a commitment of the management company to continue, and an agreement from Susie that I should remain on the Board. Six hours later, I was elected President of KTA. Believe me when I tell you I was not pursuing this….

I think KTA has turned a corner. They have streamlined their operation, become much more affordable and inclusive, and have a good Board and Management. The industry still faces challenges. But KTA has the means to once again provide resources and contacts that strengthen individual retailers and wholesalers. If you are in the Trade, I hope you’ll consider joining at the new dues level.

The final night in Albuquerque, KTA presented their annual awards. I was the Master of Ceremonies and asked each Board member to come to the stage and announce results of voting. Susie would help hand out trophies.

With substantially larger firms in the room, we didn’t expect to win anything. It became first a shock and then a bit funny when Susie got to hand several awards to herself!

We’re honored and delighted with our three awards this year. And I’m looking forward to working with KTA this year and continuing the recovery.

At 1 a.m. Tuesday morning, we arrived home and were up early to begin processing new orders. We have trips looming and new designs in the works. We’re looking forward to the coming year and particularly looking forward to flying with all of you!