In this year of uncertainty, pandemic and general craziness, we need to remember to stop and be thankful. There is a lot to be grateful for. With everything going on, many in the knife industry have been able adapt to the challenges facing businesses today. Learning to work from home, reconfiguring factories and workspaces to keep safe distances and do so as efficiently as possible. Knife owners have been able to continue to buy knives, perhaps from a more limited offering and maybe online rather than in a store. A resilience to be celebrated.
We’re thankful that the operational strategy chosen by the AKTI Board of Regents has served us well, especially this year. AKTI has always maximized membership dollars and contributions towards initiatives and programs by controlling expenses. We do not maintain a staff or office, but function with independent contractors who maintain their own offices. Board members and other volunteers have always paid their own travel and meeting related expenses.
The legislative strategy we’ve used of engaging from a distance is now the “norm.” And, thankfully, we’ve had years of experience! Instead of spending money sending lobbyists or others for numerous face to face meetings, we’ve used phone calls, letters and on the ground volunteers. You can check out highlights of AKTI’s over 20 year history of successes on our website.
This strategy was just again successful in Ohio. On November 19th, the House Criminal Justice Committee passed Senate Bill 140 (which passed the Senate last year). This legislation will repeal the prohibition against carrying a concealed knife, as long as the knife is not used as a weapon, and allow for the manufacture and sale of automatics. AKTI’s written testimony was presented at the November 10th hearing on the bill – the only testimony provided!
We are especially thankful for AKTI’s members and supporters who have continued to appreciate the organization’s value this year with their financial support, time and resources. Thank you!
However you are able to celebrate Thanksgiving, we wish you and your family our best and trust that you also have much to be grateful for.
Sincerely,
John Sullivan
AKTI President