There are two different possiblilities here:

1. You can create an account so that you are a registered member of this site.
2. You can choose to subscribe to one or more of the various newsletters (emails) that we periodically send out.

You may subscribe without becomming a registered member of the site, but all registered members automatically go on the subscription list (though they can choose which newsletters they receive, from none to all.) 

Now why should you care?  Let's first deal with registered users.  There are parts of this website that first time visitors can't see.  There was no point in giving them access to other dancers through the website or letting them change website content.  It's only when you register and then log in that these features become accessible.  Even I, as WebMaster, can only do 'guest' things until I log in.  Board members and 'authors' have more rights than guests, but only when logged in.  In reality, there is not much difference between being a guest and be registered and logged in, because we have very little to hide! To do this: Click this link: Register.  At the top right of the page there is a small, orange 'Login/Logout' link that takes you to a page where you can access all login features, including forgotten usernames and passwords.

This will take you through the process.  In the 'name' box you should use your full name, as this lets the WebMaster know who is signing up.  If you submit any articles, this will be your 'byline', unless you choose to conceal it.  Under 'username' pick a one word name that will display to others when you are logged on.  Be sure to note your username and password!  If you have issues; tell the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

OK, now that I have talked you out of registering (kidding), let's convince you to subscribe to one or more series of newsletters.  Our site uses a very slick Joomla accessory called AcyMailing.  Some of our readers are out of state folks who don't want every biweekly email; they just want big events like Set for Spring or Flamingo Fling: so that is one series.  There are two series of local newsletters: one for Contra and one for English Country Dance.  Of course, the local folks want the big event stuff, too, so they are also on that list.  So, thus far three different public series, plus a couple that the club controls (new people, board) and each and every subscriber can designate which lists he wants to be on via the 'Change Subscription' menu item.

Now what happens when someone wants to send an email reminder, announcement, or last minute change of schedule or venue?  He or she simply enters the message and designates what lists it goes to.  AcyMailing takes care of the rest, even making sure that although you are on six lists, you only get one copy of the message.

Another feature of the Change Membership selection is that you can change your name for addressing purposes, or where the email is sent to.  This happens instantly, no waiting for someone to react.  You are in control.  Unfortuneately, AcyMailing will only accept an email address ONE TIME.  So if you share an address with someone, you have to get creative on the name you supply, or just live with only one of you getting a personally addressed newsletter.

Finally, we’re all about the fellowship and the dancing. So, don’t just be an electronic presence; come dance with us.