SOCAN at the ORFA Convention with Craig Brockie


ORFA's Gary Makins (left) and SOCAN's Craig Brockie (right) at the ORFA 2010 convention.

It was that time of year again, last May, when SOCAN attended the Ontario Recreational Facilities Association’s (ORFA's) provincial convention at the University of Guelph. Craig Brockie, SOCAN Industry Relations Executive, Central Canada, was delighted with the opportunity to meet and reacquaint himself with ORFA members. ORFA has served as a wonderful platform for Brockie in developing key relationships. Having a booth at this convention affords the opportunity for personal interaction with managers of community centres from all across Ontario. "It's great to be able to meet with these customers face-to-face," says Brockie. "They'll come by the booth looking to clarify issues around how to correctly report music use, or to ask us about SOCAN in general. It's a very comfortable atmosphere, which makes it ideal for asking questions and exchanging information about what SOCAN is, and defining when and why a SOCAN licence is required."

SOCAN’s presence has also led to other opportunities This year Brockie met Gary Makins of ORFA, who wears two hats: one as a director on ORFA's board, and the other as a professor at Mohawk College. Mr. Makins teaches an “Introduction to Recreation” course that educates students on all aspects of operating recreation and community centres. Makins, who invited Brockie to speak to his class about performing rights and SOCAN, says, “Our students need to understand SOCAN, and it's my responsibility as their teacher to make them aware.” "This class was highly responsive, very interested in how SOCAN works and how licence fees must be integrated as part of their standard business costs." said Brockie. "I really enjoyed my time with them and I'm looking forward to meeting and talking with more of Mr. Makin's student's in the future."

To find out more, visit the ORFA website.