I still will probably only go to UOA every couple years because some of these other meetings like SECO look really cool.

I will join again the moment that I can afford it and/or when the price of dues for AOA/UOA combined is less than $250 a year (to put an arbitrary number on it). Right now all my money goes toward school loans, health insurance, car loans, gasoline, saving for a house, credit card debt, and…oh, yea, a loan for a solo private practice that went down the drain.

I was just looking over your comments about the UOA convention. I had a very good time as well. I did not know you were there, I would have liked to talk.
We struggle with the schedule every year at the convention. You are right about the time. We get a good deal because we are not in the winter or summer season. Move it forward a week and rates more than double I think.
Having won the golf this year I hope you did not overhear me talking about it. The same people would not win every year but the system was changed so more people had a chance TO win. It is now all about just haveing fun and golfing. If you win great, if not great as well. The prize money does not even cover the green fees. I had a great time golfing with my Dad, brother, and uncle.
CE is also another area of difficulty. Rich H has done a great job with this for several years. We had to bring him back after John A. also did a great job. If you look at Utah law, you have to have 30 hours every 2 years. If you attend all classes T,F and S you get 15. Do that every year and your CE is done. We could pack more into F and S but this is a STATE convention. People from distant areas of the state will have to take T off just the be at the convention for the 7:00 am CE so we have the afternoon classes T. No Sunday required. Or go to all of Sunday and also in the Fall and you have met your yearly CE. Sunday is designed for the ODs that can’t, don’t or won’t take off the other days of the week. Also, most of us get at least 4 hours of CE each year at dinners and industry sponsored CE.
The parties and functions are also a big part of the convention as well. They are done by industry and they keep the cost way down as well. Plus, I really enjoy them. It is a good chance to socalize. I hope you contine to attend.
We can always use help as well. If you would like to become a member again and help with the CE (or anything) I would welcome you.
Mike Judkins