With all that is covid, we have had many of our plans thwarted for shows, workshops and events.  Luckily just before the world changed, we made the great decision to bring a Communications Coordinator on board. We were also very lucky to secure some additional funding from the BC Arts Council Resiliency Fund!  This allowed us to support What the Plus+ and keep the very necessary Communications Coordinator position in place for 2020.
One of the events that we had planned was our AGM, which usually occurs in late spring.  We just felt that hosting that would be unnecessarily stressful as not all of us have the zoomability on our computers or internet server.  Of course this meant we did not renew memberships or collect fees.  After looking at our finances, we decided to allow members to ask for a waiver for the renewal of this year’s membership. fees.  This is usually approximately $1500 in revenue, but with all the stresses on artists’ personal finances we did not want to add to that.  And let’s face it the most important aspect of MAS is working together! 
We are thinking about the possibility of holding a combination live/zoom AGM in October – but will take our lead from what is happening in the community. In the meantime,  on the MAS website we have set up a section on renewing membership at:

https://artpowellriver.com/become-a-member-of-mas/

You have the option of paying, waiving the yearly membership fee and/or donating an amount you feel comfortable with. You can now pay by e-transfer too… just set up Malaspina Art Society in your banking information with our email malaspinaartsociety@gmail.com – easy peasy. Any amount will help us continue to work through the next 6 or so months… we do have some exciting events and opportunities coming up in the Fall but you will need to renew your membership to find out…
On behalf of the MAS Board of Directors,

Lorna Downie