Greetings George K
Thanks for you always-informative review of happening at the NAMN show.
Your comment  “The hit at this years shows has to be the big growth in the Ukulele market” may be somewhat of a surprise to some, but not to the thousands of new “uke” enthusiasts. 
Back in April of 2009 I read about a ukulele club in a nearby city.  Drove over, sat it in on one of their session and was hooked.  As a result I bought a ukulele and found it easy to learn and play.  A few months later the two hour round trip drive was getting to me so I decided to see if there was any interest in the local area, advertised a proposed club in the local newspaper… and 28 people showed up with ukuleles in hand.  
We are strictly a senior group, all in our 60s, 70s and 80s.  We now have over 50 members and are still growing.  I know of at least a dozen or more ukulele clubs in Southern California, all strummin’ and hummin’ and having fun.  
http://mysite.verizon.net/realgeorge/temeculavalleyukulelestrummers.htm  I have two of the Kala ukuleles that you mention and also a couple of 1920s vintage “banjo ukes.” 
George
keyofg