The PAL Show 2008, Canada’s largest production technologies trade show for pro audio, lighting, video, staging and software products, completed another strong showing at the Toronto International Centre, August 24-25, Toronto International Centre. A total of 180 exhibitors (combined PAL/MIAC) attracted approximately 2,600 attendees and industry representatives to the two day show, equal to last year’s results.

“We are very pleased and encouraged that the Show was able to do so well under current economic conditions,” said Chris Griffiths, MIAC/PAL President and Chairman of the Board. “Although our attendance on the MIAC side declined slightly, we did experience important increases on our PAL side which does reflect a continuing growth trend.”

The 7th annual PAL Show was a dynamic event which featured outside demonstration areas and product training sessions, as well as exciting social events such as the Charity Golf Tournament, Casino Royale Welcome Party, and a rousing Industry Gala Dinner which featured Quebec entertainer, Martin Fontaine.

“The buzz and excitement was certainly evident at the Show,” said Al Kowalenko, MIAC Executive Director, “Many exhibitors wrote great business and many attendees commented on the first class array of new products on display and how vibrant the Canadian industry was faring despite the uncertain economic climate.”

This year, the combined Show added 40 new exhibitors and many existing exhibitors increased their space and presentation areas. In particular, the PAL Show experienced continued growth with several new companies in pro audio, lighting, video and staging exhibiting for the first time. An inaugural program of PAL & NSCA sponsored Project Management Course proved very successful. Product training seminars staged by several exhibitors were also very well attended.

The PAL Show 2009 will continue at the Toronto International Centre (6900 Airport Road), Sunday and Monday, August 23-24, 10 am to 6 pm both days. Further details may be obtained on the PAL website: www.thepalshow.com.

At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Music Industries Association of Canada held on Monday, August 25/08, Toronto International Centre, the following MIAC/PAL Board of Directors slate was elected for 2008-2009:

• Jeff Carman - Years of Service: 6 - JAM Industries – Erikson Audio, Baie d’Urfe, QC
• Chris Griffiths - (5) - Gibson Guitar Canada Ltd., St. John’s NF
• Brock McGinnis - (5) - Westbury National Show Systems, Toronto (Retail)
• Jeff Sazant - (5) - SF Marketing Inc., St. Laurent, QC
• Pierre Beaupre - (4) - LE Groupe A1, Ste.Anne-des-Lacs ,QC (Rep)
• Julio Cotellesso - (3) - Steve’s Music Store, Montreal, QC (Retail)
• Dale Kroke - (3) - B & J Music Ltd., Mississauga, ON
• Larry Mansbridge - (3) - Yamaha Canada Music Ltd., Scarborough, ON
• Terry Ryan - (3) - SABIAN Ltd., Meductic, NB
• Scott Betz - (2) - MusicOneSelect Inc., Pickering, ON
• Paul Pinchuk - (2) - Musical Instruments Distribution Canada Ltd., Markham, ON
• Eric Teacher - (2) - Osram Sylvania Ltd., Mississauga, ON
• Marc Bertrand - (1) - Tannoy North America, Kitchener, ON
• Scott Gair - (1) - Encore Music, Winnipeg, ON (Retail)
• David Harvey - (1) - Drummer’s Choice, Brampton, ON (Retail)

All directors are industry volunteers who dedicate their time and efforts to assist in the development of policies and programs for future benefit to the Association. The Board is normally composed of 10 manufacturer/distributor members, and up to 5 retailer members.

The MIAC/PAL President and Chairman of the Board for 2008-2009 is Chris Griffiths who will be completing the second year of his two-year term.

The PAL Show National Office is located at Suite 807, 505 Consumers Road, Toronto, Ontario, M2J 4V8 (located near Victoria Park Avenue and Highway 401) and is a member resource.

Office hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday, and all PAL members are cordially invited to visit the National Office when you are in the area. Contact numbers are 416-490-1871 (local) or toll-free 1-877-490-6422.

For all the latest PAL news and activities, visit us online at www.thepalshow.com.