MASNA question

So after another discussion with the president of MASNA (Marine Aquarium Societies of North America) she asked this question "what would MASNA have to do to get your members more interested in MASNA, and supporting our organization?  What would you like to see MASNA do?".  I said I'd post it here and wait for replies...

Adam

I really want to see a MACNA! But, I can't talk Rob into going to the east coast for a reef conference. I had talked him into gong to next years conference, just 'cause I was thinking it was in Washington State!

 I really wish we could do one in Vegas! Or San Diego! Or Boise!

Suzy wrote:  I really wish we could do one in Vegas! Or San Diego! Or Boise!

Suzy- Holly Cow!  That is a little spooky.  That is exactly what I told her. 
Jon- too expensive?  For the traveling or for the conference itself?  Better as a one day conference, better as a 3 day.... please elaborate.

Adam

Too expensive for the average hobbyist.  $500 for airfair, $300-450 for hotel, $175 for the conference, $300 for food/entertainment...  I go to conferences for work a couple times a year.  They're more expensive then MACNA, I learn alot that helps me in my job, but in the end it's my employer that foots the bill.  Some of those conferences I might be willing to pay on my own because it helps me in my job.  But, I just don't have that kind of money to spend on a conference dedicated to a hobby.

And... If I'm patient and willing to wait, many of those speakers might just visit our club and give their presentation.  It might take three years, but that's only $75 in club fees.  And as much fun as it would be to be there to hear their presentations, most of the info presented will eventually (within the year) be published somewhere where I can get at it.

just my opinion...

I would go if I could afford it.

Being a poor college student this could really only happen if I could drive.

sushi wrote:   Here is what I think  this would be an amazing experience.  I myself am a poor college student, and couldnt afford airfair and all the super fancy things. But,  I say what ever happened to those old fashioned road trips of yesteryear.  I move thats exactly what we should do. hell,  I will even drive.  I have room for 5 people total in my car.  whos with me..

I'm up for a road trip (ask Adam), but D.C. is a little far for a road trip IMO.

SSpargur wrote: I think I'll tell the wife we're going to DC then say, "WOW!  Look at that honey, there's a reef conference going on here!  What a coincidence!"

You'll be in more trouble than Finch.

Adam

I don't have many more stories about Karl (remember with a K).  But I do have some stories about a fish named Rob.  But the girl fish call Rob-A because he is a hottie and always brings his A game.  Oh, and a fish named Finch. But those stories will have to wait until road trip time.

By the way, you all know that road trip group from Boise is coming this weekend to see our Reef Tour right?  I think they're also coming to laugh at you people down south because they know Boise St is going win big this Friday night.

Adam