Treasurer’s Report

by Scott Whelan

I’d like to introduce myself as the Chapter’s new Treasurer. Most of you know me as the face behind the grill this past year. Going forward I will keep the chapter updated on our financial health. Unlike most chapters, coming out of Covid we are in a relatively good position. We do want to make sure we can maintain this going forward.

I’m sure, everyone is very aware of how much the cost of goods has accelerated in the last two years. As a chapter we have been able to control our costs, but unfortunately, we also face increasing costs just to survive. Cost of food and supplies is one of the reasons the chapter’s individual annual dues will increase from $25.00 to $30.00. We are holding off on making the dues increase until April 1, 2022. Therefore, if you haven’t done so already, you now have a financial incentive to pay your annual dues before April 1st. Family memberships will also increase from $35 to $40.

An area very near and dear to my heart is the galley. I especially enjoy the camaraderie and fellowship from meeting and catching up with the members in the galley. Unfortunately, and I will apologize ahead of time, but we have had to also increase our meal prices. Our pancake breakfasts increased from $5 to $7. I am however exploring the idea of family and kids pricing. As a father of three, I realize how quickly the costs can add up – 2 parents and 2 kids = $28. While the chapter could really use the proceeds, I am also aware $28 for a pancake breakfast is expensive – I will however GUARANTEE it is the best breakfast available (well, around the North Hangers at least). We can forego a couple of dollars on kid’s meals to know that we are able to sit down and enjoy a meal together. To help stomach (pun intended) the price increase, one thing we are going to offer is the pancakes will now be an all you can eat. Careful though, you don’t to overdo it and then need to recalibrate your weight and balance before you fly again.

We haven’t had a lunch or dinner meeting for 2 years so I will really need to explore what to budget for those meals. My goal is to keep the hamburger meals to $10. I will explore family and kid’s meals options. I will keep you updated before we do a hamburger meal. They cost a few dollars more, but I am open to doing Kalua Pulled Pork and Tri-Tip sandwiches again. I encourage your ideas.

A membership option everyone should consider is a Gold Chapter membership. We are keeping the price at $300. While that may sound like a lot – a major benefit is that all your meals at the hanger are included. This membership pays for itself if you attend just a couple of meetings a month.

As the chapter’s treasurer, I will provide you with a picture of the financial health of the chapter. I will include in the newsletter a recap of how much the chapter is raising through our meals and other fund raisers, and then how the chapter uses these funds to support aviation. If you ever have any concerns about the chapter’s income or expenses, please reach out to me.

This chapter needs and appreciates your support. If you want to come out and just enjoy a cup of coffee talking about airplanes, or if you’d like to volunteer your time, helping with the sims or even in the galley, our chapter gets stronger with your support. I am always open for feedback. Please give me your suggestions on meal options and pricing.

There is a place for everyone at the EAA 1541 Table.