I was obviously surprised at my mention in Tad Clarke’s editorial regarding the DMA Hall of Fame nomination of Dave Florence and Ben Franklin (“Who Should Be Added to the DMA’s Hall of Fame,” June 28). To be included in such august company is quite flattering, and I do appreciate the inclusion.
There are two points that I would like to discuss. One is obviously that the DMA needs to open up its criteria for the nomination as well as open up to its membership on other aspects of its daily operation. As a dues-paying member for over 35 years, I often find myself questioning some of the actions taken by the DMA. At the same time, it is the “only show in town,” and it is important to keep it viable. Its leadership in moving insert media to center stage is an example of the need for the association; the first-ever Insert Day could not have come to pass without its endorsement.
As for the second point, I have written two published books and published a newsletter. As my company heads for its 50th year in business in 2006, I hope that my legacy will be young people who enter the direct marketing industry and choose to work in the insert media arena as mailers or brokers/managers.
Leon Henry, Chairman, Leon Henry Inc., Hartsdale, NY
