Our new site has updated the technology, a new look and feel and improved user experience. It is tailored to our BCI members via the members’ only section, but there is plenty for nonmembers to browse. One of the major improvements to the site is the addition of an electronic copy of our industry‐leading magazine:
Bonsai and Stone appreciation

The software behind this feature makes the pages have the look and feel of a paper magazine. With the addition of this electronic magazine, we will be able to offer a reduced membership rate, as a major cost of membership is the postage to mail a physical copy of the magazine. If you are interested in an electronic membership check out the membership link for more information. Beyond the magazine, BCI membership has many other benefits.

Consider the following:

Fellowship:
As the world’s oldest international bonsai organization (BCI is in its 48th year) BCI offers enthusiasts in bonsai and related arts the chance to exchange fellowship with like minded friends around the globe. Our  web-based BCI Friendship Exchange will make it easy to meet and enjoy camaraderie with fellow members around the world.

Information and Publications:
BCI offers members our regular Ambassador newsletter and our quarterly international publication – BONSAI and Stone Appreciation Magazine. We also offer a book service for hard to find books and BCI custom clothing. The BCI web page has all manner of bonsai and related art information will have a particularly important role for BCI and will vastly increase in scope.

Conventions:
International BCI conventions lead the way by globally promoting the art and providing educational opportunities, as well as the chance to enjoy memorable bonsai display and demonstrations. This year’s convention is in Louisville, Kentucky, USA. Future BCI conventions will visit many areas of the globe including the Denver, Colorado, Yangzhou, China, and the Gold Coast of Australia.

Awards and Recognition:
We regularly hold competitions just for members (such as the competition to have your tree’s or stone’s photo on the cover of the magazine) to help promote the art. BCI Board members also award recognition to trees at regional shows they attend.

BCI Tours of Exotic Bonsai Sites:
In November 2011, there will be an amazing BCI Tour of two major bonsai shows in southern Japan. While a good number of members have already signed up, there remains room and time to sign up so I encourage all who can to join us in Japan.
Additionally, in 2012 as part of our Denver convention, there will be an exciting tour of the Rocky Mountains, USA. BCI membership qualifies you to join these phenomenal tours.

To remain relevant in the modern world, BCI will focus on you, our individual members. While we still welcome clubs, BCI needs to grow its individual membership, so please talk to your friends and fellow local club members about joining BCI as individual members.

Again, welcome to the BCI web site. Please enjoy it and let us know if you have any comments or suggestions.

Rob Kempinski