Fellow Members,

As we step into May, I want to begin by expressing my sincere gratitude to the officers and committee members who have stepped forward to be part of our new leadership team. Your willingness to embrace a collaborative “team model” is exactly what we need to move the RMCA forward.

We are reminded in Hebrews 6:10 that “God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” It is in that spirit of service and brotherhood that we continue our work.

Honoring Our Heroes

As we approach Memorial Day, we take a moment to pause and remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Many within our own club have served in the armed forces, and we owe a debt of gratitude to all who have worn the uniform. May we keep their families in our prayers and never take for granted the liberties we enjoy today.

Securing Our Financial Future

During our executive meeting last Friday, we had a very candid discussion about the club’s health. We ended last year with an $11,000 deficit, and it is my primary mission to ensure we return to the black. To do this, we are taking immediate and strategic actions:

• Operational Efficiency: We are making immediate cuts to underutilized expenses, specifically our Zoom account and dedicated telephone line.
• Church Negotiations: We are currently in discussions with the church to re-evaluate our expenses and ensure our partnership remains sustainable for both parties.
• Dues Realignment: To keep pace with rising costs, we are proposing a modest increase in annual membership dues to $40, effective January 1, 2027.
  • Early Bird Incentive: Any member who renews prior to January 1 can do so at the current $35 rate.

A Call to Action: Be a Part of the Club, Not Just an Attendee

The RMCA is more than just a place to show up for a meeting; it is a community of stakeholders. I am asking every one of you to find a way to contribute your unique talents. We are seeing our numbers grow, and to support that momentum, we are implementing a new membership check-in for all club activities to ensure we are properly welcoming new faces.

Specifically, we are in need of:

• Hospitality: Volunteers to help run our special events and ensure everyone feels welcome.
• Marketing & Advertising: Someone with a marketing background to help us expand our outreach and tell the RMCA story.
• Fundraising Lead: Someone who can help guide and coordinate our revenue-generating efforts.

Trips & Summer Events

There is a lot of excitement on the horizon! Our Elvis Tribute trip launched last week with a fantastic turnout and plenty of fun. Looking ahead:

• PA Dutch Country: Our 3-day trip to Lancaster starts this Wednesday, April 29th, and concludes on May 1st. We have a group of 15 participants attending this excursion.
• Summer BBQ Fundraiser: We are planning a BBQ for members and significant others here at the church. To maximize the impact, I am looking for sponsors to cover food and supplies so all ticket proceeds go directly to our funds.
• Upcoming Deadlines: We have two fantastic trips coming up—the Newport Playhouse (June 3rd) and the Newport Lighthouse Cruise (July 29th). Both require a 40-passenger minimum; please sign up at the next meeting so we can reach our numbers!

Let us move forward with faith and a shared commitment to our club’s future.