DIRECTOR'S CORNER

By RICK FRITZ

Explanations Sometimes Needed

I was shopping with Zoe, my little girl, and we both decided that we needed to go to the "facilities." It was a secure store and she's big enough to go into the women's restroom by herself, but as she entered she handed me her big Cabbage Patch doll to hold for her.

I'm always holding things for Zoe, so I didn't think much about it -- and proceeded into the men's restroom.

I did not realize the awkwardness of holding a large doll in that situation until several other men walked in giving me funny looks and smiles.

I wanted to give a simple explanation, but I decided to keep my mouth shut and act like it was normal and I felt secure about my masculinity.

We have received several questions about the new BULLETIN format and the dues statements this month, so I would like to open my mouth now and give a few "simple explanations" to the three most typical questions we are receiving from members:

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• Do I have to pay extra on my dues statement for a paper copy of the BULLETIN?

No. If you want a paper copy of the BULLETIN (instead of the semi-annual CD-ROMS) all you have to do is check the box on the dues statement, or contact the membership department at 888-945-2274 ext. 412 or 643; or by e-mail at . Members only pay extra if you want to receive both the hardcopy and the semi-annual CD-ROMS (an annual charge of US$39).

As Pat Gratton mentioned in his letter included with the dues statement and his March President's Column, AAPG is laying the foundation for the future by easing the membership into the new world of electronic publications. Although this allows us to keep dues as low as possible in the face of rising costs, it is also the right thing to do for future development of the BULLETIN.

Most societies provide digital access to their flagship publications but charge extra for paper copies. As a transitional measure, AAPG's Executive Committee has decided not to charge for paper copies this year.

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• Why do we have a suggested donation to the Foundation on the dues statement?

Many AAPG members use this mechanism as a reminder to donate to the many successful AAPG Foundation programs. Also, the AAPG needs broad-based support to maintain its tax status. Most societies use this mechanism to maintain that broad-based support.

The AAPG Foundation supports many worthwhile educational programs, grants-in-aid to students and outreach programs such as the AAPG Distinguished Lecturer. Each year, we have a very positive response from AAPG members to this dues reminder. Please note that it is only a suggested amount and is not required.

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• How easy is it to pay my dues online?

AAPG installed new software this year that is designed for easy use. You can logon by using the "Pay your dues online" hot link on AAPG's homepage, or use www.aapg.org/dues/ as the address.

Please note that you will need your membership number for the "Login" and your member password. If you need to request a password or have forgotten it, just click on the "need password" link and you will be sent one via e-mail, or your can make up your own.

If you have any questions about paying online, please contact us at 888-945-2274 ext. 412 or 643; or by e-mail at .

Please remember you also can register for the annual convention online -- and if you register before June 1 you'll save $70 on the registration cost. See www.aapg.org/calgary/ for details.

We are experiencing the highest pre-registration in the last 12 years for an annual meeting, so make your plans early and register now.

If you have any comments on the dues process or would like more simple explanations, please contact me at .

We appreciate your support.