So, increasing from 50,000 members in the mid 1970s to 155,000 in 2005 has to be considered a loss? This hobby is only going to appeal to just so many people. The baby boomers have been exposed to the hobby all along and if they wanted in, I think they'd be in!

Why are we always seeming to lament that there just isn't enough people involved in this hobby? More people will mean less flying time for those of you who beleave flying is what the hobby is all about as it will be more crowded at the flying field. Clubs would need to be bigger, there will be more work for the officers and it will be more difficult to get people to commit to being officers due to there being more work!

From my point of view, I could care less if the hobby grows. This is about what I enjoy doing with MY free time, not about my promoting the hobby and AMA to the masses.

Don't get me all wrong on this now! If someone new comes along, is self motivated and doesn't need to be wet nursed through the beginning stages, I'm Johnny on the spot to lend a hand! However, I've done my share of attempting to promote this sport to the general public and for the most part, it was all for naught.