Maybe I'm really gullable or idealistic, but as an ordinary member of the OABA I'm not at a loss as to what the assoc. does. If you aren't sure, read the legislation actions in the Showtime. I also won't ever forget the check that showed up to help bury a fallen member. That's included in the membership.
Yes, I'll agree that most of the member benifits they offer are hokey if you are already an owner, but if you are a simple employee, this might be the first time in life you had a discount at anything. And I found that the savings at the IAAPA Convention to be worth 5 years dues.
And as for the "flatties" that founded the organization, I was raised in this business by one of the founders, and I'm sure no one will question the integrity of F.G. Woods. I couldn't of had a better mentor.
The more you know, the greater your life
can be.