We are making a few changes in the way we conduct our meetings, especially the part about signing in and paying for your meals.   We currently spend the first half hour in line just waiting to sign in, pay, and get a name tag.   In the future, we will just go in, sit down, THEN sign in and pay for our meals.   Here is how it will work: Each place setting will have a bright yellow program card in front of it.   The card will center folded (like a tent) and have a blank name tag and a blank receipt attached to it.   The card will also have a guest/member status on it.   You will be asked to fill out the card, make your own name tag, fill out your own receipt (if you need one) and attach your MONEY to the card where indicated. One of us will be around during the meeting collecting these cards while you eat and enjoy one another's company.   It is important that you put your name on the card, so we know who paid, also if your IFMA Directory listing has changed, please add the change to your card, or attach your business card to the tent.

Here's the key to making this work!   When you sit down, please fill out the card immediately and attach your money to it.   If at all possible, please have correct change.   We will no longer be able to charge meals on credit cards of any kind.   If you want us to bill you for the meal, you will need to put your billing address on the card and be prepared to pay and extra $3.00 for processing and handling.

Thanks for your participation and understanding, as we try to present the best programs in the most trouble fee method possible.

Bob Payne is facility manager at SAS Institute and Programs Chairperson.