Under the leadership of incoming President Karine France-Matsumoto, the OWA board of directors conducted their first meeting on January 11, 2011, at CoffeeTalk in Kaimuki. Goals for the association were set, strategies were discussed, and policies were instituted. Among the major ones that may affect you, the member:
- The board agreed to do away with the corporate and associate membership levels. Since practically all of the members are signed up under the general membership level, having additional levels is unneccessary.
- The monthly advance meeting fee has been raised to $15 for members and $20 for guests/non-members. In finding venues to host our meetings, it was getting difficult to find venues who were willing to work with a $10 per head budget. A modest increase of $5 should help the venues with their costs while keeping the monthly fees low enough for your wallet. (Please note that some meetings, like the joint OWA/NACE Hawaii meeting, the holiday party, and meetings at certain locations like Ruth's Chris may require a larger meeting fee. Of course, you will be notified ahead of time as to the cost of the meeting.)
- The $15 meeting rate for members now extends to your employees. Last year, we limited the member rate to two people per company; any additional would be charged the guest rate. This year, the board has decided to simply allow any employees that may attend to be charged the $15 member rate. So if you have second shooters, assistants, co-owners, etc., they may come at the $15 member rate.
- Pay your monthly meeting fees online! To make it easier for you, you'll be able to pay your monthly meeting fees via PayPal. Click here to pay in advance of January's meeting.
- Board meetings are now on the second Wednesday of the month. Generally they are held at CoffeeTalk, but if the venue changes, we will mention it on the blog or by email. Of course, you are certainly encouraged to attend and voice your thoughts and opinions!
It's an exciting time to be an OWA member. Check back here often to read about what's new and what's happening with your association!
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