Unfortunately this post does not give the reasons for the differing systems. Usually there is a specific reason why a particular membership renewal policy is adopted. As a rule of thumb, my suggestion would be: do not mess with an existing system unless there is an important reason for that. Even if you win your point the resentment that you engender from folks who are invested in the older system may not be worth the "reform." In this case it sounds that there is nothing more to the change than personal preferences ("ego"). This could poison relationships for a long time to come. PeaceNick -----Original Message----- From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Rebecca Gelinas Sent: Monday, March 29, 2004 11:04 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Expired memberships I am curious to find out how other museums handle memberships that are "renewed" after they have already expired. I have recently taken over the membership program at my museum and already we have a debate amongst the development department over how to handle expired memberships. In the past, if a person renewed their membership up to three months after it had expired, the renewal was entered into the system retroactive to the original expiration date. For example, if Mr. Smith's membership expired on Jan. 1 of this year, but I just received his renewal today, his membership is now valid only until Jan. 1 of next year. I personally think that his membership period should be Mar. 29, 2004 to Mar. 29, 2005, but other colleagues disagree. I'd appreciate any input! Rebecca Gelinas National Steinbeck Center Salinas, CA ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes). ========================================================= Important Subscriber Information: The Museum-L FAQ file is located at http://www.finalchapter.com/museum-l-faq/ . You may obtain detailed information about the listserv commands by sending a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "help" (without the quotes). If you decide to leave Museum-L, please send a one line e-mail message to [log in to unmask] . The body of the message should read "Signoff Museum-L" (without the quotes).