Hello, This was my first IOLI convention. The class I took (Carrickmacross) was terrific. I loved meeting old friends and making some new. There were some glitches (especially annoying were last minute schedule changes), which I hope will give food for thought for those planning next year's convention.
What I really found disconcerting was that for the first and only time in my 59 years of life, I found myself being "bounced" from a meeting. I agreed to accompany a friend to the IOLI annual meeting, although I had joined only two days prior. When I went into the meeting room I explained to the people who greeted me that I was a new member and would just like to sit in the back and observe, that I was there mostly to keep my friend company. But, a rule is a rule and I guess the rule is that you have to be on the "official" list to be present at the IOLI Annual Meeting. Funny, I do wonder what the secrecy is all about. Of course I didn't expect to vote, but to just observe from the back of the room? How silly. Lacemaking is a very small world, and I would think that related organizations need to be in evangelizing mode. Another friend told me that although she had been a member in good standing for twenty years, she was told she couldn't enter because she didn't have the right ribbon, or wasn't on the list, or something. She was allowed in after telling them that in that case she had paid her last dues. All I have to say is, me too. Regards, Carolyn Hastings - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
