Hi List, Some friends and I are attempting to start a regular origami meetup in Tampa, Fl beginning next month. I realize that consistency is a large factor in keeping a group going long-term. With that in mind we've scheduled to meet every third Saturday of the month at a local stationary shop.
In order to cast a large net for potential folders we've already set up a listing on the OUSA Groups page, have a meetup.com page, and will be setting up a facebook group soon. I'd love to pick the brains of people who've built long-lasting folding groups. I'm interested to hear thoughts regarding: 1) Meeting format - Should we teach a planned model or two every meeting or should it be less structured? 2) Skill-levels - I'd love to have a regular meeting of people who are already experienced in origami but that sounds like a pie in the sky idea, especially at the start. Assuming we're going to attract people of all (or no) skill levels, how do we make sure that everybody gets excited to come to the next meeting? 3) Our first meeting is Father's Day themed because it will take place the day before the holiday and we figured it could boost attendance with a timely theme. I've been pouring over my origami books looking for fun, simple, Father's Day models to teach and it's a lot more difficult than I thought it would be. The dollar bill shirt or shirt+tie I think is a lock. Does anyone have any other suggestions for Father's Day-ish models? 4) What other questions should I be asking you? Thanks for making it through this long email. I look forward to everyone's responses. Meetup Page <https://www.meetup.com/Tampa-Bay-Origami-Group/events/jwkjrpyxjbvb/> Thanks, Ian
