Ten-year-old Isaac Valk participated in a birthday party yesterday unlike any he has ever attended-CBA celebrating its 60th anniversary with the association's leader leading a tweaked rendition of "Happy Birthday."

"It was neat that they sang 'Happy Birthday to Us,' " said Isaac, who attended the anniversary celebration with his sister and mother, Lorraine Valk-who owns Banner Books Parable Christian Store of St. Joseph in St. Joseph, Mich.

CBA President Bill Anderson told the crowd of approximately 100 people that "this is your party," as several tables were set up outside the CBA Member Services area, and lined with chocolate and white cake featuring the logos of sponsoring publishers, including Barbour Publishing, Moody Publishers and B&H Publishing Group.

Anderson spotlighted a black-and-white photograph of the first CBA gathering in Chicago in 1949, which drew 279 attendees. "I still have the brochure (from the first show)," said Anderson, who then encouraged the crowd to sing "Happy Birthday to Us" versus "Happy Birthday to CBA." "This is all about you and all you've been willing to do to change in 60 years. Let them eat cake."

Lisa Umina, owner of Halo Publishing International, said she was "definitely interested in the cake." "I think this is a very important event and anniversary," she said.

Lorraine Valk, who indulged in the chocolate cake, agreed. "I thought it's neat," she said. "I've been coming to CBA (trade shows) since 1973. It's historic to bring such a fellowship of people together who are working in the frontlines of Christian retail."

Valk's daughter, Jessalyn, 18, added: "It's amazing to know that they've been around 60 years."

• Prev
• Next