Since joining ASA 10 years ago, I've been asked many times, “What do you get by being a member?”

ASA's membership department brochures rightfully boast of more than 30 member benefits. These are the “official” ASA benefits, the ones that provide something tangible, such as a financial dividend from Dodson Insurance.

I participate in several of the “official” member benefit programs. There's no question that they have saved me time and money. But, what I really want to share with you are some of the “unofficial” benefits, those that pay dividends in ways far more valuable than money.

The first unofficial benefit is education. I've learned more about running my shop in the hospitality room than in the classroom.

At local and national ASA events, there's always informal gatherings where shop owners share their experiences. It doesn't matter what the subject - personnel, technical, business - you'll find good ideas and proven solutions at every ASA event. What you discover as you spend time with other shop owners is that not only do they have answers, but so do you.

Education isn't just listening to what someone else is saying; it's sharing in the conversation. And here's the biggest and best secret about ASA - when you share in these conversations, you start thinking about situations differently and more creatively. It's hard for me to explain, but you discover how to use your mind in ways you never had before.

The second unofficial benefit is the social aspects of the association. You may be cynical when you first read this, but let me explain how I define social aspects.

Rather than just paying my ASA dues, I've chosen to be active in the association and participate in its activities. What's happened over these past 10 years is that I've gotten to know the most terrific people in the world. My circle of friends - good, true friends - is incredible. Many people would be hard pressed to name six really close friends. Eleven years ago, I couldn't have done it. Today, I can name you 60.

The third unofficial benefit I want to mention is how much my life has improved because of my ASA involvement. The hospitality room education and the friends contribute to this benefit, but it's more than that.

When I accepted the chairman's gavel from Johnny Mock in April, I stood before my peers and made a speech. There was a time when I would have rather died than make a speech, but that time was before I joined ASA.

Another example of how I've grown is demonstrated by my taking part in various industry issues such as legislative battles. I've grown because I am no longer working for Howard Lewis. I'm working for our industry so we can all enjoy the benefits - both official and unofficial - that it offers.

Yes, ASA offers more than 30 benefits. The best benefits it offers won't be found on any membership department brochure.

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