Tony - You were right on target in reference to Don Dewey. Don in my opinion was the "Jim Walker" of the late 60's & 70's. I had a few articles published in RCM and in doing so I had the opportunity to have a chat with Don from time to time. I lived about an hour away from his office. I remember his frustration when he was turned down with his offer to do the printing free! This event seemed to diminish his enthusiasm for our hobby and resulted in his turning the reins over to Pat Crews, and starting a new magazine about Tropical fish! He did consider another organization but I don't think he thought it was worth all the time, effort and money on his part. There are many stories out there regarding SFA but who really knows the full story? SFA didn't make it. and now it's behind us.

In todays economy I'm sure AMA has looked, and continually looks at the balance sheet. We elect our EC to monitor and question any practices, including financial, to protect our funds. If I have a problem/question with the AMA administration I call/email or communicate my concerns to either the DVP, HQ staff or President Dave. I have never been questioned about my motives. I have always got the answers I was looking for.

It was refreshing to read a great post. Thanks! BTW I believe you didn't get your old number back because after a certain length of time they reissue it to someone else. I may be a little fuzzy on that but I'll bet a phone call to the membership staff could answer the question for sure.