Ive been trying to stay out of this mess for a while, but since the can is opened...

Personally, I pay AMA because I have to. 58 bucks doesn't dent my pocket book much, and thats not why I will complain. I think thats the same for most fliers, as we know that this is an expensive hobby, and aren't afraid to have a little extra insurance. However, the folks in Muncie wasting this money on needless expenditures is more than enough to tick me off. If AMA were run like a true business in FULL support of its members, those in charge would be doing their best to be as efficient and cost effective as possible, while supporting all of us. That clearly isn't happening.

Also, the fact that AMA has invested in volatile areas of the market, and not secured the funds in a safer location is not helping their case. Then, this elaborate 'palace' is built in the middle of no where. I don't disagree with the fact that there needs to be a place where they can organize, meet, and promote our hobby, but to best promote it, shouldn't it at least be near to a large population base? Heck, if they represent us to the government, why isn't it near DC? Also, how many members truly will venture to the National Flying Site? Not many, i know that much.

I truly need the current financial figures to say what i want, but without proof, I'm not going to fudge it in to prove my point. What i would like to say however is that i am very disappointed in how the organization is run. Competition would be a great thing for the AMA, because then they can truly see how bad things really are. BTW, if anyone can point me to some of the hard dollar figures, it would be greatly appreciated.

Best regards,
Ed Schurr