Hello District VII members! Let me start by wishing you a happy new year! I hope that you not only were showered with gifts (new aircraft, perhaps?), but that you also helped those who were not so fortunate to have an enjoyable holiday season by whatever means you were able.
This month, I want to start by discussing an issue of which many of you are aware—increases in membership dues.
For those who have met and spoken with me directly, you are aware that I believe in transparency to let you—those whom I represent—know of issues, to explain directions and thoughts, and to listen to your feedback, taking that back to the AMA Executive Council (EC) meetings. To this end, I wish to explain why and what changes have occurred. During the past season, many of you saw costs rise. Many have also seen a decline in membership within your local clubs.
These same issues affect AMA. Cost increases have occurred in areas such as mailings, credit cards, and electronic transactions, among other areas. Club membership reduction and reduction in AMA membership overall have reduced income, leading to our current deficit. The decision to increase fees was not taken lightly, and I can tell you that our EC meeting was quite active in examining how we can tighten our belts and minimize increases for our members.
A critical part of this discussion was keeping our services with you not just as they are currently but also improving them. On my travels throughout the district, having discussions with you, I have heard and seen firsthand some of our failings and we are working to improve this. Better communication with members and providing you with helpful information and suggestions are items that we will improve to make it better for you and your clubs.
Electronic transactions have become the most convenient way of paying. Unfortunately, the credit card companies and payment services have also increased their fees. You already see this when visiting a retailer or dining establishment. Businesses now add a credit card surcharge fee. In most cases, this is seen as a percentage of the purchase, which is significantly higher than what we have chosen to do. Unfortunately, the time has come in which AMA can no longer absorb this expense. AMA has initiated a flat fee of $3 on electronic payments.
A full list of the increases is as follows: $4 increase for Adult, Senior, Park Pilot, Three-Month Trial, and Affiliate memberships; $5 increase for Youth memberships; $3 service charge for credit card or PayPal transactions; and a $5 increase for club charters.
I am sorry that the first column of the year starts with unwelcome news, but before I close, I want to get back to talking about exciting activities within our district.
The Circle Masters Flying Club from greater Milwaukee took part in the 2025 Maker Faire Milwaukee. Not only did they demonstrate Control Line airplane flight, but much to the delight of those in attendance, they also started a pulsejet engine, drawing extreme curiosity from people in attendance. Young people were constantly at the Circle Masters’ table with multiple questions. The club’s display included one with shortened lines that allowed the visitors to see and understand the principles of flight. An excellent job and many thanks to the Circle Masters for their efforts in promoting the hobby at 2025 Maker Faire Milwaukee.
Remember, District VII members, please start sending me notifications of your 2026 events so that I can try to place them on my calendar because I enjoy meeting, chatting, and flying with members of the district. Until then, keep sharing the passion of aviation.