the numbers don't really reflect true membership numbers. While we are above member #R-8316 right now, several hundred of those have been members that let their membership number expire & chose to get a new one in lieu of paying "back-dues" -- there a some that do this a couple times. We lose between 10-20 members each year due to them passing away. Others lose interest & or never really had but a casual interest. Think about it -- for $30 you get four great magazines & a year to determine whether you like the hobby or not...pretty darn cheap. Many lose interest after just a year or two...many others sometime after that. What I'm seeing is that the type of membership incentives so graciously offered recently by Andy Hughes & Archie Black work best. A couple years ago, club members would, either as a group or individually, offer to pay a portion of a new member's dues. Most of those members didn't stick around too long. But the ones that were offered chips, they seem to have a bit more longevity with the club.

I believe that the recent economy has a lot to do with the membership decline, but I also think that the lack of new issues has a bit to do with it. When I joined, LE's were issued often & it does pique someone's interest when they look at different types of chips. Age is a factor (most people don't start collecting until they're "settled-down") as is time & disposable income.

What I personally believe KEEPS people here are the friends that they make. And if you don't take the time or make the effort to make friends with the wonderful people in this hobby, you're really missing out on this club's greatest asset. I don't know how long I would have collected had I not made friends with so many great club members.

The final thing that I wanted to close with is to make sure that the membership understands that the club's BoD is aware of the membership issue and is working towards finding solutions. Doug Smith has really taken the reins on this front this past year & I am certain that he will continue to lead the crusade as our new President.

Steve Bedo
Membership Officer