This past spring I initiated the commemoration of a Honorary Membership Status for those members who have volunteered their time and efforts to the benefit of the Ontario Steelheaders. This was well received and as such, I would like to announce that I am accepting from our membership any nominations that anyone would like to submit for this status. If any of you feel that someone is deserving of a Honorary Membership, please drop me a line and provide the individual’s name and a brief summary as to why you think they deserve this status. I would like to make this an annual event and announce the honorary members during the Spring or Fall derby. The nominations will be discussed at the board of director’s meeting and decided upon at that time. If we have no nominations than obviously no one will be selected.

Now, please keep in mind that all membership dollars received are 100% directed to the Ontario Steelheaders and their goals and objectives. The money received from the actual membership fees is relatively small in comparison to the donations, grants and bursaries from businesses, government organizations, as well as, other community group funds. As such to grant everyone Honorary Memberships wouldn’t allow us to do the work that we do – LOL.

I continue to view my role as Membership Director as being an interactive role. I have the responsibility to ensure that our members receive the information, handouts, memos, updates etc. that our directors prepare for us. You should note that the most recent membership application form provided an option for those of you who wish to opt out of receiving mail through Canada Post and only receive email communications. I realize that for some of our members continue to depend on receiving our communications through Canada Post and this will continue. However for those of you who have selected to opt out and receive email communications only, I thank you, as this does reduce our overall operating costs. However, regardless of how you wish to receive your communications please ensure that I have received your most up to date contact information.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE – MAKE SURE THAT I HAVE YOUR CORRECT EMAIL ADDRESS AND ALL CONTACT INFORMATION. I have received a lot of returned mail and email’s stating incorrect addresses and if I don’t have your phone number, I have no way of making sure that you receive the information that we are disbursing. As such if you haven’t been receiving any communications then you may want to check in with me to ensure that I have all your accurate information.

I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead of us in the coming year. Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or questions regarding your membership or club communications, and I would be happy to assist.

Madeline Walker Membership Director Ontario Steelheaders