Open Letter to Members and Spouses

From the Executive Director

For the first time in our history the Association is struggling to find a Treasurer.  Tom Kerr, who joined me as Treasurer when I took over in 2005 is retiring effective December 31..  You might remember that until several years ago, he had the combined duties of Association and Foundation Treasurer.  Then, because of IRS regulations, we split the Foundation from the Association and John and Dale Dodd took over and we overcame the “rocks and shoals” of IRS regs and became very stable..  Now, Carol Rees has taken on the Foundation duties and is doing a great job – despite the fact she claimed she could “only balance my check book.”

With the split, the Foundation inherited most of the financials to include my salary, all contributions, merit award sponsorships, advertising, Booster and Dedicated Member campaigns, etc.  This left the Association with only the membership dues, sales of gear, and financials associated with conferences, including registrations, etc.

My point is this:  The Association Treasurer’s job is very much diminished at this point.  By Laws require a monthly financial report but that could  be changed to quarterly, as is the Foundation’s reporteing. There is an annual IRS reporting requirement but this should not be too much of a hassle according to those “experts” I have talked to. The alternative at this point is to seek outside assistance and that could cost the Association money.  Over the years we have been able to put the Association and the Foundation on viable financial footing.   I would hate to see us retrogress to those years where we in financial straits.  I would also hate to think we had to go outside of the organization bring in someone who does not understand who we are and what we represent. IMO if we did this we would also have to bond that individual. Also, if we had to pay for this service, we would be doing a disservice to Carol who is a volunteer.