Message from the Chair

message from the chair Member Value is Our Mantra

We did it! We actually did what many thought was impossible. We had our beloved Marketplace & Academy event in Minneapolis in August. By the looks of joy on all the faces I saw, everyone one was thrilled to be back in person, doing what we do best – networking.

We all looked forward to this show with great anticipation. After all, it was the first live show since the COVID-19 pandemic started. We were eager to see and be with one another. We all value ASTRA as a community, not just an association. Our retail members came to the show with money to spend, and spend they did. What better environment for a great show? In my mind, this show may go down in the record book as one of the most memorable shows we have had. It certainly was our most anticipated event.

Now that Marketplace & Academy is behind us, I’d like to reflect on the past 18 months and what we have taken away from that period. Many children were attending school virtually during that time. They were mostly separated from one-on-one interaction with their teachers, classmates and friends. Studies have indicated that this adversely affected their very important learning and skill development. Many children have lost a full grade level in the classrooms to which they are now returning. It is important to remember that products that support play, and especially screen-free play, were provided by our member retailers. They pivoted when everything changed how toys are sold. They became online retailers, where they perhaps hadn’t been prior to the pandemic. They enabled curbside pickup and made deliveries in their communities and beyond. Their mission to serve their communities never wavered. Their resilience should be celebrated.

And now the changing of the guard of your ASTRA Board of Directors has occurred. I am honored to serve as your chair. My experience on the Executive Committee and my service on the Finance Committee have uniquely prepared me for this role. Looking forward, ASTRA is positioned to forge ahead with you and your needs in mind. Member value will be our mantra. Mighty together!

Jeanie Crone OjO Chair, ASTRA Board of Directors