ORIGINAL: Mode One
I started this thread in an attempt to voice my opinion that I feel membership in the AMA is a good thing! I attempted to break down cost of dues to the ridiculous: I.E. $25.00 for a subscription to Model Aviation, $25.00 for the insurance coverage, leaving $8.00 to cover the lobbying done, Muncie, the Nats, some remuneration for the staff, etc, etc... It is unimportant if I have the costs right, only that the total truly does equal $58.00.
For the life of me I don't understand the animosity to-wards the AMA! However, to each, his/her own! However, to those of you whom do not like the AMA, I have to ask; Why do you join? It's not a good enough answer to say: Well, my club requires it! Find a club, or start one which doesn't require it. I understand the costs might be prohibitive; but, it's not my concern, as I am a member of the AMA and I get these services for what I feel is a very reasonable price, $58.00!
There has been some slighting of each other, from both sides over this simple issue! Had we all met at a fun fly, doing what for the most of us is our most enjoyable past time, we might have become friends! What is up with that?
The insurance is less than $12 per member on average. Some years are more, some are less. This includes the cost of management. Most of what is left is to pay the 50 plus full time employees at Muncie. Ten years ago there were less than 25. Just how many does it take to make plastic membership cards???
Over 84% of the membership does not vote. To them AMA is required to fly where they want to. This captured membership is what has keep the AMA in business long past the time when it should have either folded or seriously changed it's practices.
Your professed contentment is founded on Blue Sky promises.