We would like to thank everyone who attended our meetings and other functions in 2005. Many of our guest speakers brought demos of their work to show to the group and to remind us that there is a lot of great talent in north Texas.  One of the goals of the Guild is to tap that talent, nurture it, and help it grow to its fullest potential.

We had a fine lineup of speakers this year including:

Gary Sole, special effects animator, talked about his work in films.

Will Nicholson, special effects animator and founder of Lucid Dreams, shared stories of how he got started working in film and advertising.

Jason Van Sickel, founder of Black Olive Media spoke about advertising and running a business.

Dana Weitz, of the Guild, spoke about Mambo, a content management system.

Tony Hobdy, Creative Producer at D7Studios, spoke about concepts, perceptions, and production companies.

Kevin Flach, freelance Digital Communicator, gave practical advice about how to become better at what you do and raise yourself above the pack.

Dorit Rabinovitch of doritart.com, a classically trained artist who gave up her brushes and canvas for the digital world of Corel Paint spoke about her art and gave us a demonstration of the Paint program.

J Schuh, of the Guild, spoke about several software programs and addins, jazzed us up with his enthusiasm, and kept the momentum going in the group.

Dave Krein, of the Guild, led discussion in the meetings, introduced the speakers, provided a cohesive force between the speakers and the users, and generally did a thousand other things that no one knows about.

Our first Educators Meet and Greet was held at ReelFX in Deep Ellum in October. Several volunteers helped by manning the door, greeting visitors, and making sure refreshments were in easy access.  In addition to the sharing of ideas and information we were given a tour of the facility.  We wrapped up the event with lots of door prizes.  Surveys were then distributed to the attendees. By gathering the survey information we hope to keep our finger on the pulse of what professionals and students want in the way of continuing education and personal improvement. 

We look forward to seeing you again in 2006. Bring your co-workers. Bring your friends. Bring your dog (well maybe not).

The Guild wishes you and yours a peaceful holiday season, a safe and merry Christmas, and a very happy New Year.