John asks ... "Why give the USPS $12 when we could put it to better use...?"

Because many club members prefer the OPTION to have their magazine delivered First Class.

Those members who don't mind when they get their magazine, opt to have it delivered via 3rd class bulk mail, whenever the Postal Service handling their area gets around to it. Some areas evidently have better 3rd class delivery service than others do judging by the posts made by some who have reported receiving their bulk mailing of the magazine weeks ago.

I would not be in favor of taking away the First Class option by those club members who voluntarily wish to pay extra for that service. The extra $12 per year (which amounts to a measly $1 a month, or a 3.5¢ per day surcharge ) is well worth it to me.

Of course I understand that there may be several club members who are on fixed or limited incomes who might need the $12 for other more important matters.