Dear Members,
What a year 2017 has been. In many ways, this past year has been a transition year for the VISOA Board and its members. At our summer meeting, the members elected a new board, signaling the end of an era for two longtime Board members, Chip Boatwright- President; and Owen Waltman-Treasurer/Secretary. It is clear that these two individuals have done so much for the organization and membership for many years, and we thank them for their years of service to the organization.

This past year has also been one of change on the NISOA landscape as well, and it is difficult to predict what the future holds for NISOA. Know that the new VISOA Board is working strategically to make sure that our association stays strong amidst this sea of change and always works on behalf of the members.

The new VISOA Board in 2017 has been active behind the scenes. While working diligently to deal with past tax issues, the board has contracted a private firm to help audit VISOA’s finances and help settle matters with the IRS. The board is happy to report that this will have a negligible impact on the members.

Additionally, our new treasurer, Shaun Papperman, is working closely with our assignor, Mark Ingvaldsen, to make sure that moving forward, our members will be paid in a timely manner. Expect Shaun to send out a more detailed report in the future.
The VISOA website has also been reborn, as new webmaster, Julie Heiry, has helped give VISOA a much needed boost to its web presence.

Save the date! The 2018 VISOA Camp is slated to be held the third weekend in July (20-22), and we are exploring schools in the west region. The makeup camp will be held on Saturday, August 11 (likely in the north or central region). Members in good standing must attend camp (please notify your area rep if you know of a conflict).

The Board is aware that there is still much work that needs to be done.

• We know that the NISOA assessment program is in dire need of repair. And we are looking at making changes at the chapter level, to ensure our assessment program follows more of a coaching/mentoring model.
• The new member application process needs to be revised to ensure that we continue to attract and recruit quality members.
• We also know that we need to be more transparent with the members. And we hope that the membership understands that sensitive matters are usually better shared in-person and not through email. So please remember, that if you ever have a question or an issue-contact your area rep or a board member.
• The board will be seeking a new area rep for the north. Interested members should contact the interim north rep (Jim Conlee)

The board would like to thank everyone for a great 2017 season. Congrats to all who worked playoff games. We know that 2018 is going to be another great year. Make sure that you are staying fit, eating well, and maintaining balance and harmony with work and your personal life.