North American Fruit Explorers mailing list at ibiblio

["William C. Garthright" <billg@inebraska.com>]

> no one was too interested in yakking with a new member.  I circulated 
> around the room, but it is difficult to bust into circles of 
> conversations that all the old pros were having.  It might have been a 
> nice gesture to introduce/ or have the member introduce 
> themselves--and comment on "where they are" in their orcharding and 
> what they hope to accomplish in the future; what they hope to learn?  
> Also went to a couple of the sponsored lectures--very excellent 
> information--but not for the lonesome or faint of heart, no comradely 
> welcome there either.


I've had this experience with various organizations, too. And then the 
occasional group that really makes a newcomer feel welcome (usually due 
to an especially capable president who makes a point of greeting any new 
face). This makes a huge difference - the difference between not showing 
up again or eventually becoming one of the "old pros" yourself.

One nice thing about the NAFEX list is that no question is ridiculed. 
Even we brand-new fruit enthusiasts with a few trees in our backyards 
are made to feel welcome. I know I've asked some dumb questions, but 
I've always been answered politely and promptly. That means a lot. I'd 
recommend NAFEX to anyone.

Er,... but I must admit that I'm NOT a member of NAFEX, only of this 
email list. I keep meaning to investigate, to see what membership 
entails and costs, but I don't get around to it. It might help if that 
monthly reminder email gave us that information. Wouldn't it be useful 
if the list received a monthly email giving the NAFEX website, along 
with membership information? I tend to join groups - or donate money to 
them - when they make it VERY easy. Otherwise, I think about it but end 
up procrastinating.

Bill

--
We are prodding, challenging, seeking contradictions or small, 
persistent residual errors, proposing alternative explanations, 
encouraging heresy. We give our highest rewards to those who 
convincingly disprove established beliefs. - Carl Sagan