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Wire & Cable Milan update

The conference program for Wire & Cable Milan—to be held Oct. 16 in Milan, Italy—presented in the August issue is essentially the same and can be seen at the event website: www.wireandcable23.com.

Other elements continue to develop. At last count, 14 companies have reserved a tabletop. Those include: Caleotto Spa, Continuus Properzi, DRT Impianti Srl, Eurodraw Wire Equipment, Gimax Srl, IWMA Ltd., Mario Nava SpA, Oreste Castelnuovo, Pan Chemicals SpA, Pittini Group, PS Costruzioni Meccaniche Srl, SAMP Srl, SAS Engineering and Planning Srl, TKT Group and ZT Srl. Of those companies, Continuus Properzi, DRT Impianti Srl, IWMA Ltd., PS Costruzioni Meccaniche Srl, SAMP Srl, SAS Engineering and Planning Srl and the TKT Group have also signed on for a range of event sponsorships.

The event is co-hosted by ACIMAF and the Wire Association—which have successfully teamed up on previous conferences in Italy: Verona in 2019, Milan in 2013, Bologna in 2007 and Stresa in 2003—have high expectations for the return to Milan in 2023. It also has the support of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation – ITA/ICE. Media partners include expometals.net, Technologie de Filo and WJI.

The program will consist of 24 technical and business presentations balanced between ferrous and nonferrous topics. Beyond the presentations, representatives of 40 key industry suppliers will be there to share their latest innovations with the industry. The day-long program will present unique networking opportunities, both during the conference at the gala dinner, always a much-anticipated highlight.

The featured presentation will be delivered by Srinivas Siripurapu, chief innovation officer and R&D officer at Prysmian Group. He also was a keynote speaker at Interwire 2023.

The ACIMAF Board of Directors selected a special combination of venues in the heart of Milan. The Palazzo dei Giureconsulti will host the conference/tabletops while the Palazzo Serbelloni will serve as the site of the gala dinner.
To register and for the latest details on Wire & Cable Milan, go to the event website: www.wirecable23.com.

Want to become a WAI chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

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Last modified on December 4, 2023

Corey Flynn joins WAI as manager of member services

Corey Flynn, who during his last year of college served eight months as an intern for WAI, has joined the association as manager of member services.

Flynn will be the membership point person as the Association moves to new association management software in September. He will manage the member experience, including onboarding and renewals, and be the staff liaison to the Member Relations Committee and all the WAI chapters. He will also manage the business internship program of which he was a participant.

Flynn graduated in 2022 from the University of New Haven with a B.S. degree in business and finance. He earned the respect of his colleagues as he balanced the academic demands of his senior year while quickly assimilating to the organization and the association business.

“Corey impressed everyone with not only his willingness to help, but the high quality of his efforts,” said WAI Executive Director Steve Fetteroll. “We also appreciate that he remained engaged during his Covid-disrupted journey through school.”

Flynn was the founder and president (2021-’23) of the Investment Club at the university as well as a member of the Men’s Club Soccer team.

Want to become a WAI chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

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Last modified on December 4, 2023

U.K. representative to visit WAI on Oct 3rd to continue the clockwinding tradition

Elizabeth Bonfield, who will perform the traditional clockwinding ceremony Oct. 3 at WAI’s office in Madison, Connecticut, has a sterling background that makes her a superb U.K. industry representative.

Bonfield has worked at the director level in the engineering, manufacturing and construction sectors for the past 20 years. As managing director of three vocational awarding bodies, she spent 10 years creating opportunities for individuals and businesses in training and qualifications. She currently works as an executive coach & trainer for Skills 4 UK in Leeds, a U.K. leading consultancy for diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Bonfield chaired a steering group that successfully delivered a Skills 4 program into the U.K. engineering and advanced manufacturing sectors to address the skills shortages faced due to the lack of retention and progression of women and prior experience at the British Manufacturing Plant Constructors Association. She also arranges the National Metals Apprentice of the Year awards in categories Craft and Career Development on behalf of the Worshipful Company of the Tin Plate alias Wire Workers. Multiple members of the company have previously wound the clock.

The most recent clockwinder, Martin Thacker, had the unique experience of serving for three years, the first two times (2020 and 2021) being virtual. Thacker—whose grandfather was a wiredrawer in Sheffield, and his father worked for Markham and Company Ltd., as did his uncle—appeared the third time in the flesh on Nov. 3, 2022.

The clockwinding tradition originated when John Rigby and Sons, Ltd. of Manchester, England, presented the Wire Association with a 400-day grandfather clock at its Annual Convention in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on October 20, 1948.
The gesture, which represented a group of 32 companies from Great Britain, was made in appreciation of the support given by the U.S. wire industry to Great Britain during World War II.

The massive mahogany case, standing about eight feet high, was made about the year 1770. The clock’s lacquered brass and silvered dial is hand engraved and bears around the arch an ancient sundial motto reminding us that “Time can neither be kept nor destroyed.”

Each year a representative from the U.K. makes the trip to the U.S. to participate in the annual ceremony that commemorates the friendship and communication between the two nations.
The clock resides in the lobby of the Wire Association International headquarters in Madison, Connecticut.

Want to become a WAI chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

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Last modified on September 6, 2023

Details on Ohio Valley Chapter's launch of scholarship program

WAI’s Ohio Valley Chapter once again proved that education and golf make a good mix. On Aug. 24, 70 attendees participated in a busy day that began with a round of golf, followed by a triple-decker educational program followed by much camaraderie and networking at the awards ceremony, including an official announcement that led to a standing ovation. Chapter President Tom Maxwell told the record-size audience that a scholarship program will be launched in January 2024: the Ohio Valley Chapter will offer up to two awards in the inaugural year. The audience’s response made it clear that they were thrilled with the new program.

“It was one of those moments that every single person who was there will long remember and be proud of,” Maxwell said later. “It makes the chapter experience that much better when you can pitch in and make a direct difference.”
Maxwell credited the Chapter’s board of directors for the growing popularity of the event, which combines education and golf. This year’s educational program was well received. It began with Rick Bray, a WAFIOS Machinery Corp. application and service technician, whose presentation was “Butt welding and annealing correctly.” The second session, presented by Tamara Girard and Miranda Garritano, environmental specialists from Ohio EPA, was “Resources to help you reduce waste, save money, and achieve compliance.” The final one, by Greg Viland, business development engineer, and Jeff Terrell, head of training, both from Sikora International, was “Using X-Ray technology and eccentricity devices to measure the wall thickness on a jacketed wire and cables.”

The Ohio Valley scholarship program
The WAI Ohio Valley Chapter established its scholarship program—to be administered by The Wire Foundation—to improve educational opportunities for academically qualified high school seniors or college students who are children, grandchildren or dependents of members.
The Chapter made this commitment to reinforce the value of higher education in today’s society and to provide members with an opportunity to benefit from their membership in WAI and the Chapter.
Up to two scholarships will be awarded for use in defraying the cost of the award winners’ freshman or subsequent year of college. Scholarships will be awarded up to $1,500 per recipient with preference as (1) two-year accredited technical school or associates program enrollee and/or one (1) accredited four-year college or university enrollee. Requirements follow.
• The student must either be a graduating high school senior or currently enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year technical school, college or university.
• The student must be the child, grandchild or dependent of a WAI Ohio Valley Chapter member in good standing as of the date of application.
• Current WAI Ohio Valley Chapter Scholarship Committee Members whose children/grandchildren/dependents apply during the current year must recuse themselves from the voting process.
• Any planned field of study is acceptable.
• No financial information is required; however, special circumstances will be considered.
Contact: Corey Flynn, WAI manager of member services, tel. 203-453-2777 x 128,
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Want to become a chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

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Last modified on September 6, 2023

Ohio Valley Chapter packed in a lot of activity at the Kennsington Golf Club

WAI’s Ohio Valley Chapter once again proved that education and golf make a good mix. On Aug. 24, 70 attendees participated in a busy day that began with a round of golf, followed by a triple-decker educational program followed by much camaraderie and networking at the awards ceremony, including an official announcement that led to a standing ovation.

Chapter President Tom Maxwell told the record-size audience that a scholarship program will be launched in January 2024: the Ohio Valley Chapter will offer up to two awards in the inaugural year. The audience’s response made it clear that they were thrilled with the new program.

“It was one of those moments that every single person who was there will long remember and be proud of,” Maxwell said later. “It makes the chapter experience that much better when you can pitch in and make a direct difference.”
Maxwell credited the Chapter’s board of directors for the growing popularity of the event, which combines education and golf. This year’s educational program was well received. It began with Rick Bray, a WAFIOS Machinery Corp. application and service technician, whose presentation was “Butt welding and annealing correctly.” The second session, presented by Tamara Girard and Miranda Garritano, environmental specialists from Ohio EPA, was “Resources to help you reduce waste, save money, and achieve compliance.” The final one, by Greg Viland, business development engineer, and Jeff Terrell, head of training, both from Sikora International, was “Using X-Ray technology and eccentricity devices to measure the wall thickness on a jacketed wire and cables.”

This marks the fourth time the Chapter has produced the combined educational and golf outing, which has found a first-rate home at the Kennsington Golf Club in Canfield, Ohio. There was some question about the timing of the event, as it is usually held in late September or early October, rather than the last week of August, and the board will mull that over, factoring in the success of this year’s program.
And yes, there was a golf tournament, which was won by the team of Cliff Goss and Brock Braun of SDI LaFarga COPPERWORKS, and Chris Skidmore of OmniSource. They shot a very respectable 10 under par 72 to walk away with the bragging rights.

The Chapter also introduced its leaders. That includes Maxwell continuing as president, joined by directors Brad Andrews, Condat; Rick Bray, WAFIOS; Mark MacKimm, Rainbow Rubber; Steve Wright, Blachford; John Leffler, Enkotec; Dave Rascati, Premier Wire Die; and Past President Rob Fulop, Wire Lab Co.

Contest sponsors included Bechem Lubrication Technology, G&S Bar and Wire, Chemetall North America and Rainbow Rubber. Corporate sponsors were Blachford, Condat, Die Quip, Enkotec, The MGS Group, George Mitchell, Omnisource, Rainbow Rubber, Paramount Die, Premier Wire Die, WAFIOS Machinery and Windak.


The Ohio Valley scholarship program
The WAI Ohio Valley Chapter established its scholarship program—to be administered by The Wire Foundation—to improve educational opportunities for academically qualified high school seniors or college students who are children, grandchildren or dependents of members.
The Chapter made this commitment to reinforce the value of higher education in today’s society and to provide members with an opportunity to benefit from their membership in WAI and the Chapter.
Up to two scholarships will be awarded for use in defraying the cost of the award winners’ freshman or subsequent year of college. Scholarships will be awarded up to $1,500 per recipient with preference as (1) two-year accredited technical school or associates program enrollee and/or one (1) accredited four-year college or university enrollee. Requirements follow.
• The student must either be a graduating high school senior or currently enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year technical school, college or university.
• The student must be the child, grandchild or dependent of a WAI Ohio Valley Chapter member in good standing as of the date of application.
• Current WAI Ohio Valley Chapter Scholarship Committee Members whose children/grandchildren/dependents apply during the current year must recuse themselves from the voting process.
• Any planned field of study is acceptable.
• No financial information is required; however, special circumstances will be considered.
Contact: Corey Flynn, WAI manager of member services, tel. 203-453-2777 x 128,
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Want to become a chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

Read more
Last modified on September 6, 2023

Registration for all Chapter golf tournaments is open

  • Aug. 24, 2023. The Ohio Valley Chapter’s Golf Tournament will take place at the Kennsington Golf Club, Canfield, Ohio.
  • Sept. 11, 2023. The New England Chapter Golf Tournament will take place at the Tunxis Country Club, Farmington, Connecticut.
  • Sept. 12, 2023. The Southeast Chapter Golf Tournament will take place at the Rock Barn Country Club in Conover, North Carolina.

The collective chapter golf tournaments bring together professionals from the wire and cable industry for a day of camaraderie and sportsmanship. Beyond the obvious attraction of golfing, the events serve as an excellent platform to build new connections, exchange knowledge, and strengthen existing relationships within the industry.

Register online for tournament, sponsorship, and dinner-only participation: wai.configio.com.

Want to become a chapter member?

Add a chapter membership to your existing WAI membership for only $15/year. Unlock additional networking and educational member benefits on the regional level. Contact WAI’s membership department at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.wirenet.org/members/chapter-network to learn more.

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Last modified on August 5, 2023

Date change made to Southeast Chapter’s annual golf tournament in North Carolina

The WAI’s Southeast Chapter Annual Golf Tournament has changed the date. Please update your calendars and mark Tuesday, Sept. 12, as the new date for this highly anticipated event.

Originally scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 28th, the Southeast Chapter Annual Golf Tournament will now take place earlier, ensuring that participants can enjoy the beautiful greens of Rock Barn Country Club in Conover, North Carolina. The venue, known for its stunning landscapes and top-notch facilities, offers the perfect setting for a day of friendly competition and networking with industry professionals.

“The tournament promises to be an exciting day, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and, of course, the chance to win some incredible prizes,” said Chapter President John Dognazzi.

The Southeast Chapter will also use funds raised from the event to support their annual scholarship program. The tournament is open to both members and non-members of WAI. For more information and to sign up, visit WAI’s event registration system that can be found at wai.configio.com.

Get ready to tee off and make lasting memories at the Southeast Chapter Annual Golf Tournament. It’s time to swing into action!

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Last modified on December 4, 2023

Markowski leaves WAI after 5 busy years

WAI’s manager of membership & social media, John Markowski, has left the Association after five years for a position with Kubtec Medical Imaging, a Connecticut-based manufacturer in the medical field.

“It has been an honor to serve this incredible community, and I am immensely proud of the bonds we’ve forged and the growth we’ve achieved together,” said Markowski, who started out with WAI in 2018 as an intern while attending Albertus Magnus College. “Working at WAI was an incredible learning experience, and while I’ll miss the daily interactions, I leave with a heart full of cherished memories and deep appreciation for every individual I had the privilege to collaborate with.”

During his time with WAI, Markowski propelled the organization’s digital presence through social media and fostered a vibrant and engaged member base, growing membership by 30% over the past two and a half years. He was also responsible for managing five chapter boards, the Member Relations Committee, the company’s internship program, and event planning.

In other personnel news, Gina Guzowski left her position earlier this year as sales manager of WAI. She joined the company in 2022, and in her first two months worked at both Wire Expo 2022 in Dallas and at wire Düsseldorf 2022.

“Like any business, WAI has to adjust to changes in personnel,” said WAI Executive Director Steve Fetteroll. “While we’re sad to lose John, who has done a lot for us, we wish him and Gina the best.”

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Last modified on August 5, 2023

Bzowski back with WAI in a new role focusing on international sales activity

Wire Journal International is pleased to announce that Anna Bzowski has returned to WAI in a new role: director of international sales & business development. She joins Shannon Timme, director of sales, as the other half of the two-person department.

Bzowski is well known to the industry as she worked in the sales department for 17 years, including 15 years as sales manager. She returned in May to assist WAI in the production of Interwire. “We were pleased that she was able and willing to assist with the significant activities associated with the successful production of the show,” said Steve Fetteroll, WAI’s executive director. “We were even happier, when she agreed to rejoin in this full-time capacity.”

The sales team will be responsible for customers along geographic lines, with Timme being the point person for U.S. based customers, and Bzowski responsible for companies with headquarters outside of the U.S.

“I’m pleased to be back because I have always enjoyed interacting with customers in our industry,” Bzowski said. “Understanding their needs and challenges allows me to introduce, develop, and implement partnership-based solutions that support their business objectives.”

As a dual citizen (Polish/American), Bzowski said that she enjoys exploring different cultures and finding ways to promote mindful communication and professional business exchange. “I’m hopeful our in-person and real engagement driven events will attract more clients from all over the world and our advertising channels will continue to support marketing efforts and branding opportunities for domestic and international clients.”

Aside from WAI’s Interwire and Wire Expo trade shows, Bzowski has marketed International Technical Conferences, golf tournaments, webinars, educational and networking events. From 2010-2017, she also served as the membership liaison for the Association’s New England Chapter, which saw much growth during that period. She holds a degree in teaching from Jagiellonian University in Poland, and attended the University of New Haven.

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Last modified on August 5, 2023

Points Meeting date set for Wire Expo

Following the successful staging of Interwire 2023, the WAI is now focused on the 2024 WAI Operations Summit & Wire Expo (Wire Expo), and it all starts with the points meeting, which is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 11.

The Association will return June 11-12, 2024, to the Mohegan Sun Casino Resort in Uncasville, Connecticut. It ably hosted Wire Expo 2016 and had been scheduled to do so again in 2020 before Covid upended those plans.

The Wire Expo show floor saw a total of 240 companies represented on the show floor, and WAI Director of Sales Shannon Timme, CEM, wants companies interested in being there to be prepared for the Points Meeting. Exhibitors must be in good standing and have submitted their contract with full payment.

The Points Meeting determines the order in which exhibitors get to choose a location. The following parameters affect the points system: years of exhibiting, square footage (or size) of stands and continuity of years exhibiting.

Points for the system include exhibit space at WAI’s Wire Expo and Interwire shows. Exhibitors must have proof of insurance before they can take part in the Points Meeting. For more details, contact Timme at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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Last modified on June 30, 2023

Midwest Chapter’s annual golf tourney was a day at the lake for 1 company

The WAI’s Midwest Chapter reported a sound success for its 20th annual golf tournament, held at the prestigious St. Andrews Golf & Country Club in West Chicago, Illinois. There were 72 slots, and all were taken by golfers who got to enjoy what proved to be a wonderful day.

The tournament began on a high note with a delightful breakfast, where participants fueled up for the thrilling day ahead. As the sun peeked through the clouds, the golfers gathered for the shotgun start at the meticulously maintained greens and challenging fairways of St. Andrews. The atmosphere was vibrant, filled with camaraderie and friendly competition, as players showcased their skills and enjoyed the game.

The winning team, from Lake Cable—Daniel Pelzel, Dan Borst, Justin Albright and Jack Rosenthal—proved to be unstoppable, shooting a very respectable 57 to grab top honors and bragging rights. The company had a strong presence at the event as Cooper Runzel, vice president of insulating manufacturing at Lake Cable, LLC, had signed up 16 of his employees to participate in the tournament.

John Markowski, WAI’s manager, membership & social media—who attended the event and also went on a tour of Lake Cable’s plant—said that he was impressed by Runzel’s support of the event. “It is inspiring to see a leader who fosters a strong sense of community within their organization, committed to employee engagement and team spirit.”
A long-time key organizer for the golf tournament, Kevin Sopczak, said that the event went off without a hitch. It made for a great day to see everyone enjoying themselves, he said. As a sidenote, he noted that he has left his position at Liberty Steel and now works for Castle Metals, which has a product range that includes some wire, so he remains in the industry and plans to continue helping out with future chapter activities.

Markowski said that Sopczak’s dedication, leadership and tireless work were instrumental in organizing and executing this memorable event. “His unwavering commitment to the industry and the Midwest Chapter is truly commendable.”

Following the golf, participants convened for a well-deserved reception, dinner and awards presentation. The air was filled with anticipation and excitement as the tournament’s winners were announced and celebrated for their outstanding performances. The event provided an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to network, share experiences and forge new connections.

Chapter officials thanked event sponsors for their generous support. That included Liberty Steel (Accurate Drive); Chemetall North America, Merit Steel and Traxit North America LLC (Closest-to-the-Pin); Micro Wire, The Rubicon Group and Worth Steel & Machinery Inc. (Long Drive). Also, Charter Steel, D&S Wire, Fort Wayne Wire Die Inc, Ivaco Rolling Mills, Lake Michigan Metals, OmniSource, SDI LaFarga COPPERWORKS and Tri Star Metals (corporate hole sponsorships). Their collective commitment and support contributed significantly to the overall success of the event, which helps support the scholarship program.

Markowski said that while golfers thrive on the sport, there was more to it than just that. “This event not only celebrated two decades of camaraderie and industry excellence but also fostered meaningful connections and friendships among the participants. ... Here’s to another 20 years of success, camaraderie, and unforgettable moments at WAI’s Midwest Chapter Golf Tournament. Until next year, may your drives be accurate, your putts be precise, and your spirits high!”

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Last modified on June 30, 2023

WAI news from Interwire includes a meeting to spark a Western Chapter rebirth

The Interwire trade exposition held in Atlanta from May 8-11, 2023, provided the perfect backdrop for two remarkable Chapter Board meetings which demonstrated commitment to growth, collaboration, and fostering the next generation of leaders. 

Western Chapter. After an eight-year hiatus, the Western Chapter emerged from its slumber with a renewed sense of purpose. Committed volunteers from the region, including California and Texas, took the reins to form the new Western Chapter Board. Their primary objective: to revitalize the chapter, forge connections and promote the benefits of joining the vibrant wire industry.

The board used this in-person meeting opportunity to begin discussing the groundwork and layout. Essentially, a roadmap of what is needed to set their plans in motion. The first order of business is to build a strong member base, actively reaching out to professionals and organizations throughout the Western region. Emphasizing the power of networking, the board aims to create a dynamic platform where industry experts can exchange knowledge, establish meaningful connections, and foster collaborations.

Again, this is still the early stage, but it is an exciting one that will take time to develop, and the leadership roles in the Western Chapter will be defined as more progress is made.
As part of their revitalization efforts, the Western Chapter Board discussed hosting a small golf tournament in 2024. Stay tuned as details develop over the coming months. If you are interested in becoming involved with the Association’s Western Chapter at this time, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Ohio Valley Chapter. The Ohio Valley Chapter focused on finalizing details for their highly anticipated golf tournament scheduled for August 24. Designed to provide participants with both enjoyment and educational value, the tournament will include three insightful sessions on industry trends, developments and best practices.

As a testament to their commitment to fostering future talent, the Ohio Valley Chapter continues work to unveil their new scholarship program, slated to launch in 2024. The chapter has developed an official criteria and eligibility sheet, which will be circulated among members soon.

Reported by WAI Membership Manager John Markowski

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Last modified on June 4, 2023

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