1.27.10 | ATA Trade Show Manager Retires

New Ulm, MINN. - The Archery Trade Association is preparing to say goodbye to its Trade Show manager Cindy Brophy, who recently announced her decision to retire after seven years with the ATA.

"I'm at a point where I want to take a break and focus more on the important things in life," said Brophy. "I look forward to spending more time relaxing at our cabin with family and friends."

Brophy also confessed she was excited to dive into the Christmas season again. "Honestly, it's one of my favorite holidays and, given the demands and timing of the Trade Show, it was difficult to find time to travel and celebrate the season with my family in Washington state. I look forward to doing that again."

For ATA members and all those who exhibited at the ATA Trade Show, it's likely most have worked with Brophy and, in many cases, have grown to know her. Brophy managed the Show in a period when the ATA and its Trade Show enjoyed significant growth and recognition. The recent 2010 Show, Jan. 13-15, was one of the trade association's finest, drawing nearly 12 percent more attendees than a year ago, 90 first-time exhibitors and 24 start-up companies in the Show's new Innovation Zone.

"The personal attachment to the Show - after all these years of effort and then to watch it come to life each year - it just drives you. It has evolved into such a big part of my life," said Brophy. "I really care about it and the ATA. It will be hard for me to let go."

The ATA has already begun working out a transition plan and schedule for the 2011 Trade Show, while Brophy has committed to helping. She'll meet with staff at the ATA's offices in New Ulm, Minn. in February to fine-tune next steps.

"It's my hope that all of our members and everyone who exhibits, attends or works with the ATA to make the Trade Show a success each year will join me in thanking Cindy for her work and commitment to our trade association and Show," said Jay McAninch, ATA CEO/president. "She has been great fun and a hard worker over the years and someone we have all come to love and respect."

Already, the ATA has identified Maria Lewis, the group's member services manager, to coordinate booth selection for the 2011 Show and serve as the main contact for Trade Show exhibitors.

"I have made so many friends in the archery industry," Brophy said. "The exhibitors I've worked with are the most wonderful people you will ever meet. I've watched many of them grow through the years from small start-ups to very successful companies and it's truly been rewarding. I'm confident that Maria will take good care of them in the years to come."

The 2011 Trade Show will return to Indianapolis and booth selection will begin this spring. As in past years, the ATA will provide information and contact each exhibitor with a scheduled time to select your booth space.

"Cindy has left us with great momentum going into this next Show," said McAninch. "We've got a strong team in place for the 2011 Show; I like where we're heading and the personnel in place to take us there."