Originally Posted by
astrohog
I guess what aymodeler is saying is that there are many private clubs to choose from. One may choose a simple, cheaper option, or one may choose to find a fancy, more deluxe offering that costs more. The only common thing amongst all those clubs, is that you must first pay your vig to the AMA before you enjoy the privileges of said clubs. In that, he finds value. Just like the shopkeeper in NYC that says he finds value in paying Vinnie every week in order that his shop doesn't burn down....
I think I get it now!
Astro
That's close, but I think of it more like a tax than an extortion fee (although some would say there is no difference there!).
As I have stated before, I do find at least some value in my AMA membership fee. I would need to buy insurance somewhere/somehow and I know of no other options that would offer me a significant savings over my AMA dues. And while I know you do not share this opinion, I do find value in the AMA's representation of the hobby in Washington. Now before we go back down that particular rabbit hole, I do understand and respect that you see it differently and I am OK with that. It is your right and your choice. I also know that there is nothing either of us could possibly say that would change the other's mind, so I suggest we just agree to disagree on this. My only ask is that you extend the same courtesy back of respecting my choice and avoid the snarky belittling remarks that seem to be so abundantly used by all sides on this forum
That said, I also do firmly believe that the AMA could deliver those benefits to me much more efficiently than they are currently doing it. I know they are wasting at least some of my money on things that I do not care about or doing things inefficiently. But in the end, I still feel that it is a relatively small price to pay in order to be able to enjoy the hobby.