Following last month's resignation of IABC president and CEO Elizabeth Allen, the organization has established a new class of membership in an effort to solve its financial
woes. (Many blame the group's cash-guzzling Web venture, http://www.TalkingBusinessNow.com, as the culprit behind its depleted
reserve fund.) Individuals interested in becoming part of IABC's "Five Hundred Club" can now shell out $1,000 in exchange for a charter lifetime membership at the international
and district level (local chapter dues not included). Club members also will be entitled to discounts on IABC products, conferences and seminars, and will have their butts
heartily kissed at an IABC "Leaders Reception" convening the international conference in New York in June. For the fashion conscious, there's also a lapel pin in the deal. Take
note: the offer is available only to the first 500 takers, so act now! As for the life expectancy of a "lifetime" membership, it may still be too early to tell.
(IABC, 415/544-4700, http://www.iabc.com)