1. My Retirement 

Two Decades of Progress

As I reflect on the past 21 years I am very pleased with the growth of ALA and the depth and success of our programs. 
 

ALA has benefited from engaged industry leaders and a very talented, experienced professional staff. Working together, as we have for over two decades, we have been meeting our program goals/objectives and have effectively met unforeseen industry challenges.

All of our efforts have been aimed at advancing the sales of lighting products, ceiling fans and controls and meeting members' needs. We have done so in a positive and proactive manner. Our success in serving and meeting members' needs can be measured by our continuing high rate of membership retention (92.5%).

Financially, we have had another strong year, and the association has, over the years, built a solid base of reserves to meet opportunities and challenges.

Preparing for and executing a successful transition to new executive leadership has been a priority for 2014. We developed a 14-month plan-of-action, which has served us well. We believe everyone, staff and volunteer leadership, have worked well together and everything, at this time, points to a seamless transition on 5 January 2015.

I believe the stage is set for the association to have continued growth and success. That is especially satisfying to me.

My Thanks to Everyone

As I close my final President's Letter, I wish to express my thanks to:

• The membership for your continuing involvement, support and encouragement.

• The staff for their loyalty and excellent work. It is an outstanding team.

• The current leadership and past Boards of Governors for giving me the opportunity to serve as your president/CEO for over two decades. Special thanks for the honor of being inducted to the Lighting Hall of Fame.

My wife, Moira, joins me in also thanking you for the wonderful banquet and recognition at the Annual Conference.  It was a very special evening with people who have become very important and special to us.

My best wishes to you 

for a happy, joyous holiday season

 and for a healthful and prosperous future.