To all American Branch – NBTHK membership and future members
First of all, I would like to thank you all for your long term support of Nihonto as well as the NBTHK and the American Branch of the NBTHK (AB).
I am writing this letter to update you all of some recent developments with the Board of Directors as well as some current events, updated membership information and future ideas which we will be considering.
We have had a few resignations. Bob Benson and Jim Gilbert have resigned their positions as officers of the American Branch. We would like to thank them for their time and contributions over the many years they have served. I, Nick Kolick, have agreed to assume the role of President Pro Tem, with the support of the existing Board of Directors. While this temporary role may lead to a permanent role, there are a number of things which we will need to do as a Board to create the new infrastructure going forward.
Below are a number of items which will be addressed:
1. Fill open positions and complete Board structure
2. New bylaws to conform with new technology and marketplace
3. New plan/benefits to attract new members while also delivering more to existing members
4. A Japanese based advocate with the NBTHK Honbu to express some of our interest outside Japan
Some recent benefits added:
1. With a membership in American Branch, we are also giving members a free membership in the Northern California Japanese Sword Club.
2. For our existing 2024 American Branch paid membership, we will also prepay their 2025 dues to the Honbu.
3. While supplies last, we are giving all existing and new members in the American Branch a free copy of “Art of the Samurai”, The Paul Davidson Collection.
4. We are updating our existing American Branch website with more interactive and educational features for our membership’s use.
Future Considerations:
1. New yearly dues structure
2. Continue to expand our work with regional sword clubs
3. Updated ways to deliver more content/information
I would like to update members on a quarterly basis. This is most easily done via the website, but will try to also deliver emails for those who have difficulty using web technology.
If you have any questions, kindly let any one of the existing board or officers your thoughts. While we may not be able to comply with all requests, we can at least consider member feedback.
Kindest Regards,
Nick Kolick
President Pro Tem
American Branch of the NBTHK