I do want to clarify a few things regarding my post because everything isn't negative associated with the AMA.

Our local club got a new president a couple of years ago, but he hasn't been real active lately. I'm sure it's work/economy related because he owns his own business.
About 1/2 dozen of our local members are at the events, but they are mostly younger people in their 20's, 30's, 40's.
A few of the "old-timers" do judging only, and only one of those guys does more than one event a year.
The number one flight instructor we had, who taught at least 40+ people that I am aware of, was scorned by the club, until they got the new president.
Yes, the clubs need fresh members to get things going again, but new members normally don't have the build, tuning, and flight knowledge to really make it fun.
The economy has hit everyone badly and I know people who can't afford a gallon of fuel a month, much less a new plane/engine.
I think the AMA will flourish more, and especially local clubs, when the economy comes back up. But... as it has been said here, more need to join to bring about change from within.

So, just like I need to do this year, get off your rears & high horses (a few of you in this respect), JOIN the AMA and let's get some changes going.