Re: RC: Reno forever?

[BMcCrary27@aol.com]

In a message dated 02/04/2000 6:07:28 PM Pacific Standard Time, 
grs@theneteffect.com writes:

<< When did the AERC convention change from being a "service for the
 membership" to being a fundraiser for the organization?  Is that the
 purpose of annual conventions for other, similar groups?
  >>

If I'm not mistaken it has always been one of the best fund-raisers for AERC. 
 And why should anyone be horrified at the idea?  Is it not possible for the 
convention to be an educational, social, and inspiring event and be a 
fund-raiser at the same time?  Why need these reasons be mutually exclusive?  
And, yes, I suspect that other groups also use conventions for the same 
purposes.  I'm afraid many members do not comprehend the expenses involved in 
serving the membership, expenses that cannot be met by membership fees and 
rider fees alone.  The budget for 2000 has been tightened up, but it can be 
tightened only so far and still give the members the service they expect and 
demand. 
And remember, the membership IS the organization and the organization IS the 
membership.  AERC is not some remote entity that is trying to rip off the 
endurance rider.  If this is a concept that cannot be understood, then I give 
up trying to explain .....

Barbara