[homer]

...it would be wise not to hitch your horses to any Vendor, Manufacturer or Distributor. Remember how the PWNA was started? It reminds me of something my father once told me... 'more often than not - behind the guise of most unselfish acts lies a selfish motive.'

If you are going to do something I would only hope that you do it as a group of contractors completely away from any influences, recommendations of anyone other than those of you who the organization will be formed to benefit.

There should be no rewards for those of us who are not full-time contractors other that to give all an even playing field to display our products and tell our story.

I would also suggest that the BOD be made up ONLY of a group of contractors dedicated to serve two Masters - the organization they were elected to manage and their individual business. Those who own BBS's, sell equipment, chemical, etc. should support your efforts by passing on information and helping to educate the industry. Then and only then will you have an organization that is not destined to fail.

As a Distributor and Manufacturer I have always wanted to share our knowledge without any strings attached and I am sure that if you gave all of us at the distributor level an equal shot you would find yourselves with an organization free of any illusions that somewhere there is a 'puppet master' with something to gain from all your hard work. Without that commitment I fear that you will be just like everyone else who has not taken such precautions and find yourselves replacing members rather than growing your organization and being alienated at the Mfg - Dist levels.

Whatever you decide - think it through very carefully and amongst yourselves over a cup of coffee at the local diner if need be rather than in the presence of those who could be viewed as someone with something to gain.

Good luck,
John