By Mark Kraham, RTDNA Chairman

   

The RTDNA@NAB 2010 convention has come and gone and preparations are already underway for the RTDNA convention in 2011. So, I’m not looking back other than to say that it was encouraging to hear the positive comments expressed - positive opinions indeed coming so soon after an economic climate that brought newsrooms across the country face to face with hiring freezes, layoffs, canceled newscasts, and, worst of all, the complete elimination of news operations.

It was no surprise that during the dark economic days those in attendance at the 2009 convention were asking what the future might hold for our industry.

But conversations at RTDNA@NAB 2010 were upbeat and excited about bouncing back and getting back up to full speed. We shouldn’t be surprised of the resilience of news people since this “get the job done in any storm” mentality is what we thrive on doing our jobs day in and day out.

Some of the comments we received from those attending this year’s convention included: “It was such a great networking opportunity and the sessions were incredibly helpful in teaching me how we're moving forward in the new age.”

“I had a WONDERFUL time, learned a ton, and came back to my newsroom completely energized. I feel that the presentation of information was exceptional, and the conference was well organized.”

I heard comments from many people that are excited about the prospect of trying something new in 2011 as RTDNA and SPJ join forces in New Orleans to produce a great convention - with talk from many vendors who are already planning on being a part of the exhibit floor and discussions about more timely topics for the convention sessions. Many remarked that this reminds them of the way it was when RTDNA moved from city to city for convention each year.

Even after arriving home I heard from several individuals who have not attended the convention for a couple of years, saying they are already making plans for New Orleans. (Use this as a reminder to make your own budgeting and planning for RTNDA 2011).

Don’t forget, though, that RTDNA will be back in Las Vegas in April 2011 for RTDNA Day@NAB. In summary, there’s a lot to be excited about with our industry and the future. Oh yes, there are plenty of issues and concerns that we need to give attention to but let’s hope the positive outlook expressed at the 2010 convention carries forward.