Perhaps I wouldn't feel so strongly on this issue if AERC was in dire
financial straights but according to the minutes of the last board meeting it
doesn't appear to be the case (AERC is currently showing a profit of over
$33,000.00 [p. 11 of AERC News - September] and especially since AERC can
afford to hire a new executive director at a much higher salary rate than the
previous director). Yet, at this same board meeting, the AERC directors felt
the need to implement a new fee to it's general membership. By the way,
there were several motions on the table for an increase in membership dues -
some that were barely defeated!!
As Terry suggested, why not try other ways to generate money like pro
rated dues for generating new memberships and why not have a membership
catagory at a much lower rate for people that do not ride but want to support
this sport?
Kim Fuess
Louise,
I am really ticked because I would like to know why I am paying dues to
an organization thats purpose is supposed to keep track of points and
mileage. To me this is another way to raise dues!!! Isn't it amazing that
AERC has an money to hire a new executive director at $14,000 more a year
than the previous director and they can donate $2,000 to the North American
Championship race that effects only a small percentage of AERC members!!!
Yet they nickle and dime the general membership to register horse AERC #s.
I wish more people would pay attention to the minutes at board meetings and
see what's going on.