President"s Message

First, a thank you to all the volunteers that helped staff the AAHS booth at EAA AirVenture. This was a first for us, and, all things considered, a successful one. We re established old contacts, created awareness about the organization, which we believe will help drive members, signed up some new members and connected with a number of current members. Most importantly, we learned a lot about what works, what doesn’t and how to do it much better next time.

On the home front, progress continues to be made on processing the Society’s photo and book collection. Thanks to the efforts of Bob Pallazola, we’re organizing the work that needs to be done. A thank you to all the "unnamed" volunteers as well. The Society is in your debt for the time and energies you so freely provide.

On the other side of the coin, just as all of us have felt in our personal circumstances, inflation is having a big impact on the Society. Since the last time the Society set its membership rates in 2017, printing costs are up about 12% in just the last two years, postage has increased 22%, utilities costs have gone up almost 20%, and all of these are forecast to increase again with the current state of the U.S. economy. With all of this, the board recognizes that we have to reluctantly increase the membership rates effective November 1, 2022. Regular membership will change from $46 to $50/year, Canada/Mexico from $54 to $69/year, International from $75 to $81/year and e-Membership from $29 to $32/year. The headquarters team is doing all it can to minimize expenses as much as possible, but most of the increases are things we have little or no control over.

While membership is important, the revenue from membership only covers about 60% of the Society’s operating expenses. We rely heavily on the generosity of our members through donations to help cover the balance. So, please consider making a charitable contribution. Membership can also assist you in setting up a bequest, endowment or charitable remainder trust. Contact Syndy in the Hunting Beach office to explore these options.

Finally, on a personal note, my work and family obligations have recently changed such that I do not have sufficient time to devote to the management of the Society. It is with deepest regrets that I have tendered my resignation to the board of directors. I plan to continue to be involved with the Society and help wherever I can, but just not at the level currently required of the president.

Respectfully,

James Logue
AAHS President