Horses for Courses
Curtain Rod, I think that our little exchange has run its course.
In closing, I reiterate that the HKAOA did nothing for me (or my 41 colleagues). Whether it did nothing or achieved nothing is really irrelevant. The fact is that the Association was ineffective.
I was surprised, disappointed and upset when the AOA did nothing for the plight of 42 F/Es (not to mention the effect that ASL had on upgrades for F/Os and S/Os) - that is when I ceased being a member of the Association.
The Ts & Cs that I "enjoyed" after twenty years were significantly worse than those that I enjoyed when I joined the company.
However, if the AOA floats your boat, then give it your money.
Just don't expect too much.