I was born in the '60's...and haven't seen 25 in quite some time.
I'm a member of AOS, I really enjoy the people I've come accross in the organization and can say there is a surge of enthusiasm in the organization. Carlos has made great gains as president and the new administrative staff are professional as well as great to work with.
There is a list with specific membership benefits, I'll take a shot at remembering them:
1. Reciprocal garden memberships with gardens all over th country.
2. Free orchid plant voucher.
3. Book: My First Orchid
4. Free admission to the AOS Gardens
5. Terrific full color magazine--monthly (Orchid Digest is quarterly, I'm a member of both)
6. Funds support education, conservation, societies.
7. Discount in the bookstore--which is being totally revamped.
8. Affiliated societies get discounted insurance on shows that you proabably attend.
9. A world renouned judging system and discounts on fees if your plants receive AOS awards.
I have the luxury of living near the AOS, so I roam the facility. As a student judge, I'm required to be a member but I was a member long before--and am paid through 2011.
I love OD as well, a different type of magazine and well worth the money.
|