National Tabletop and Giftware Assn. dissolves

Staff -- Home Accents Today, 7/1/2006

Members of the National Tabletop and Giftware Association have voted unanimously to dissolve the association and approved a dissolution plan.

"This association has faced a combination of challenges," said Marsha Everton, current NTGA president. "Industry consolidation as well as the need to focus on individual business performance issues in our fast-changing industry have led to reduction in membership and reduced participation in association activities. With the reduction in total membership and the loss of several higher tier dues-paying members, the association is no longer viable financially."

The approved dissolution plan includes a refund of NTGA 2006 dues paid, net of dissolution expenses. Any remaining funds will be distributed proportionately to 2005 NTGA members based on 2005 dues paid.

Tony DeMasi, the contracted executive director of the group, has hired legal representation to take action against Everton and other NTGA board members, along with executives of the International Housewares Association, alleging actions and decisions made by the board in 2006 were inappropriate and illegal under the NTGA by-laws.

The board of directors of the NTGA responded to DeMasi's statement that all actions taken were both legal and consistent with the by-laws of the organization.

"All actions have been carefully reviewed with NTGA's legal counsel," Everton said. "Dissolving the organization was a difficult, but financially necessary action that was unanimously approved by the voting members."

Contemporary angels come in several sizes, poses