Why and assiciate? Why an RPT?

[Richard Moody]

> 1. Why do we want more associates?
>      A.  Because associates are entitled to participate in PTG activities
and
> benefits.
>      B.  They greatly further their education and business practices and
are
> less likely to leave disasters behind them.
>      C.  More associates makes a chapter stronger and has a greater impact
on a
> community.  Everybody wins.
>      D.  Why?  Because associates can become RPTs!  You must have the
former to
> acheive the latter.
>
> 2.  Why do we want more RPTs?
>      A.  See above and expand on it.

To expand, there are more than a few technicians on this list at or above
RPT who are not Guild, but do appreciate the opportunity to take part and
realizing that these lists are sponsored by the Guild feel more encouraged
to participate more as a member on one level or another.  The inclusion of
members of the "allied professions" as Associates is good and necessary.  As
a technican I would choose the Associate status due to personal
circumstances such as being geographically isolated, not being full time,
lack of time to participate as an RPT, and not needing the basic training
offered to become RPT.  There is also the reality of  RPT not meaning one
way or the other in income or professional opportunity at least in my
experience.  It seems a few doors are closed at a few colleges but at the
performace venues or from professional players I have never been asked
execpt out of curiosity.
    Actually I think playing ability makes the most impression and this has
never been emphasized in any training program, Guild, private, or
institution.  The advantage of those who do play is 10 times more than the
designation  RPT  of one who doesn't. (and perhaps 15 more times than one wo
RPT)
    The Guild is good for (because of) this list, the Journal, and
conventions  It lacks in training programs, (ie no apprentice under Master
programs)  no levels or advancements above RPT  like the traditional guilds
(ie, apprentice, journeyman,  Master), no playing requirements, or
"official" recognition of special skills such as , rebuilding, design,
performance preparation, aural tuning, machine tuning,  etc.

So for me at this time, Associate is OK.  Now if I could just find an
application form. ---ric