During the annual trade show in Orlando many things stood out that support my optimistic view of the upcoming year. In addition to the number of attendees surpassing 29,000, the reactions of so many of the exhibitors I spoke to were overwhelmingly positive.

At the conclusion of each trade show the IAAPA Board of Directors, along with a number of members of the manufacturer and supplier committee, meet at the convention center to review the week’s events, discuss any problems that occurred, and see where we can improve next year’s show. This review process usually brings to the surface a few areas that need addressing, but I must say that this year the meeting was, overall, a positive process, indicating that we are a professional association serving a steadfast industry poised for growth.

I feel very honored that, as a third-generation member of a family with a lifelong tradition in this industry, I am able to continue flying the flag in a business that has been so good to me. I plan to give my all to my term as chairman of IAAPA and to focus on all regions of the world with association resources and member services. In the U.S., most of Europe, and parts of the Far East the amusement industry is quite sophisticated and mature, and we can draw upon our experience as we offer advice and direction to countries such as India, Romania, and Poland, which are newly developing in our industry. These countries all had representation at the show, which will help to build the industry in their countries to become a reflection of the safe, prosperous, and fun business that we know it to be.

Best wishes for a happy New Year.

John P. C. Collins
Chairman of the Board