09.04.2008 — The Home Theater Specialists of America (HTSA) hosted its 100-plus specialty retailers and integrators, as well as key vendors, at the top of the Grand Hyatt Hotel.

Richard Glikes, executive director, told the gathered group that the buying group had meetings during the day with about 70 members, with the current economic "malaise" as a topic of discussion.

He says about 50 percent of the companies report that business is up in 2007. (One consultant recently said that average growth is at 6.9%).

"That tells me that this economy is about to break out. Americans love to spend money," he said emphatically. "If any of you doubt it, just talk to my wife."

Glikes cites the election and the upcoming football season as two primary reasons that "every one will soon be rushing into our stores to spend money."

He finished with a toast to CEDIA and HTSA.

CEDIA President's Reception Hits Performing Arts Center

At the Ellie Caulkin Opera House in the Denver Performing Arts Center, the CEDIA President's Reception was held with about 200 attendees munching on hors d'oeuvres and imbibing on various liquids.

President Utz Baldwin commended the CEDIA staff for putting together the gala event, which also featured a four-piece jazz band.

Click here to check out pictures from the two receptions.

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