Membership Information
November 25, 2008
Dear MI NATOA member:
The past two years were tumultuous for those of us who work to provide public, education and government access programming, and 2009 promises more of the same. Standing up against major telecommunications companies to protect our own channels will be just as challenging as last year. In 2008 most of us have had to confront AT&T about their PEG "solution" and Comcast about their intended channel lineup changes. These challenges affect all of us, and more battles are certainly looming on the horizon.
Don't overlook one of the most important resources we have in this fight – each other! With a 2009 MI NATOA annual membership, you will be able to rely on your colleagues to provide educational opportunities and professional networking to keep you on top of the rapidly changing landscape.
If you are a long-time MI NATOA member, you probably know how valuable this network of colleagues is. In addition to cable managers from local governments, schools and public access studios, our membership includes attorneys and CPAs. Whether you've attended meetings and workshops, used the listserv or website, or simply picked up the phone and called another member, MI NATOA is your entrée to others' experience and expertise. We encourage you to take advantage of the benefits this membership has to offer!
The membership fee has stayed the same for twelve years. We believe this is a very reasonable amount, but if your budget is so severely limited that even this beyond your reach, please call one of the MI NATOA officers and see if there are alternatives for you.
While we are not raising the membership fee this year, we have initiated a Public Education Campaign and hired the firm of John Bailey & Associates, Inc. in Lansing to help us. You’ll be receiving more information on this in 2009. But, why not make a contribution to the campaign now.
Please renew your membership now. Working together, we can be better prepared for the future.
Sincerely,
Caren Collins Fifer, President
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Top Ten Reasons to Join or Renew Your Membership in Michigan NATOA
- It's the best way to network to solve problems and understand challenges facing PEG (Public, Education and Government) access operations.
- The website, email Listserv, and membership list give you instant access to information and direct help from others in your field.
- Take advantage of professional development opportunities at regular meetings or networking lunches throughout the year.
- Stay in touch with other cities and schools that have franchises with your cable operator.
- Be part of a proactive initiative to protect our PEG channels and franchise fees. Michigan NATOA has spearheaded a Public Education Campaign and also participates in legal assistance to member communities and legislative initiatives.
- Meet the MI NATOA members from the professions we need to protect our interests, such as lawyers, CPAs and lobbyists.
- Get the member rate to attend the annual MAB (Michigan Association of Broadcasters) Great Lakes Broadcast Conference, which offers workshops, demos and trade show.
- Pay the same amount for dues that you’ve paid the last twelve years – enjoy the fact that this, unlike cable rates, hasn’t risen at all!
- Be represented in Lansing and Washington DC on PEG and franchise matters.
- Be part of the National NATOA and all the resources it has to offer.
Stay in the loop.
Join MI NATOA today!