I am [writing] with reference to Victoria Fraza's article in your July issue titled "The Changing Times" (p. 21). In that article Ms. Fraza comments on the extremely low turnout for the (ASMMA/I.D.A.) spring convention, which was held in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Association leaders, she says, blamed the dramatically low turnout on the tough economic times many companies have been experiencing. I also believe that was a factor. [However], I think a much greater issue that kept distributors away was not mentioned by the association leaders: The ridiculous choice of Hawaii as the site for the convention!

Even during good times, many smaller companies would not see much logic in spending that amount of time traveling to and from a short convention. Such an exotic location is hardly a necessity, particularly when it isn't even located in the continental U.S.

Many companies typically send personnel in addition to the owner and president so that the valuable opportunity for information and education can enhance the whole organization. The association leaders need to get back to the basics and forget the lavish destinations and accommodations and tighten up on expenses just like all the member companies are doing. This convention was nothing more than an opportunity for some people to write off a very nice vacation.

Sincerely,

Ed Seay

The L.A. Benson Company