A periodic information source for members of the American Sportfishing
Association and partners on issues of interest to the future of fishing.
July 29, 2004
ICAST Roundup—Thank you to the nearly
6,500 representatives of the sportfishing industry, partners, and media
who made ICAST 2004 the best and largest show in recent years. Sixty
percent of the planned show floor for ICAST 2005 in Las Vegas (July 20-22)
is already booked up (September 10 is the deadline for deposits to lock
in booth contracts). All 2004 exhibitors should already have received
booth contracts and floor plans in your booth drop during the show and
in the mail afterwards, and it’s also available on our website.
As a member benefit for exhibitors only, final registration lists for
ICAST 2004 also will be mailed shortly, and exhibitors may order electronic
lists for $300 from Expo Exchange, our registration contractor, 301-662-9400,
show code SFE041. To check out the New Product Showcase winners and other
features from ICAST 2004, visit our website under “Shows
and Events.” For more information, contact ICAST Director Maria
del Valle, 703-519-9691 x240, or ICAST Coordinator
Suzannah Weeks, 703-519-9691
x231.
Sportfishing Summit—Mark your calendars
for this year’s Sportfishing
Summit, to be held October 27-29 at the Westin Resort on Hilton
Head Island, South Carolina, and hosted by incoming Chairman of the
Board Dave Pfeiffer of Shimano American Corporation. The focus of this
year’s summit will be improving industry advocacy—speaking
out with a unified voice when threats to fishing arise and when we have
opportunities for industry-wide efforts to advance the sport. Michael
Colopy of International Commerce Consultants, Inc., our feature speaker
on China at last year’s Sportfishing Summit, will again share
his expert insights and predictions on China’s evolving role in
global manufacturing. Most of ASA’s committees and the Board of
Directors also will meet at the summit, and we’re creating a solid
line-up of business seminars as well. The agenda also will allow plenty
of time to enjoy social gatherings, fishing and golf, and other magnificent
resort amenities. For more information, contact Special Projects Director
Forbes Darby, 703-519-9691
x222.
Top 10 Ways to Make a Difference—Serving
on one of ASA’s 10 committees is the best way to contribute to
the future direction of your trade association and industry initiatives.
More than 100 ASA members currently serve on committees, helping to guide
ASA’s programs and activities. Appointments are made for two-year
terms, with new terms beginning October 1 for 2005-2006. All ASA members
can volunteer by using the committee preference form that will be included
in an upcoming mailing about the Sportfishing Summit (since most committees
meet during that event). If you have any questions, please feel free
to contact any member of the ASA staff or Joyce
Anderson-Logan, Executive
Assistant to the President, 703-519-9691
x233.
FishAmerica Offers Many Routes for Giving Back—Over
the last year, the FishAmerica Foundation has received more than $150,000
in donations directly from ASA member companies, FishAmerica-licensed
product sales, membership renewal donations, direct solicitations, and
tournament and corporate foundations. Companies such as Grady-White Boats,
Mercury Marine, and Zebco are also providing long term support through
our endowment campaign. FishAmerica gives the industry plenty of ways
to contribute to fisheries conservation—even to specific kinds of
projects or those in certain geographic areas. If you’d like to
find out more about these opportunities, please contact FishAmerica Managing
Director Johanna Laderman,
703-519-9691 x245.
President’s Corner— Deferred this
time to Janet Tennyson, Director of Communications
Many of you know by now I’ll soon be heading out West for new adventures,
and as my parting shot I wanted to share a few reflections about my experience
here at your trade association, and most of all, to thank you for making it so
enriching.
The business world was new to me when I came to ASA, and I especially remember
how amazing it was during ICAST 2002 to see you transform the convention center
into Fishing Heaven. I was struck by the vitality that shines so powerfully whenever
you rally together. It has been such a wonderful challenge to try to capture
that and reflect it back to you and others. On occasion I’ve been reminded
to relate my writing and other creative endeavors more directly to the bottom
line. But I’ve always felt that if I did only that, without also highlighting
your passion, creativity, camaraderie, and countless other vibrant facets, it
just wouldn’t convey your strongest assets.
When I combine that observation with the special privilege I’ve had working
for Mike Nussman and alongside an extraordinary group of talented colleagues,
I don’t find it hard at all to imagine that ASA’s membership will
continue to grow—in numbers and in solidarity and in influence. I hope
you will never underestimate how much of a difference it makes when you take
a moment to share a thought, suggestion, perspective, or bit of advice with those
who are working hard on your behalf. What we are able to accomplish has a lot
to do with having good inspiration and generous support from you. Thank you!
