September 15, 2011

2012 Dues Renewal Changes

Dear ERA and ERA NY Division Members: The board of directors of both the Electric Railroaders’ Association, Inc. (ERA) and the New York Division, Electric Railroaders’ Association, Inc. (NYD) express their deepest appreciation for the loyal support of both organizations over the years through subscriptions and participation in NYD’s monthly meetings and periodic trips and the annual conventions. Both boards have diligently worked to manage costs of operation so that dues have not been raised in over 10 years.

Unfortunately, inflation and the cost of operations in terms of room rentals, insurance and printing and mailing of publications at current dues have taken their toll and become unsustainable. In particular, current finances are such that the NYD cannot continue its fine program of monthly meetings and publication of its monthly bulletin on its own and would be in danger of ceasing operations.

Therefore, beginning with January 2012, ERA will expand its activities and member services by assuming operations of the NYD. With this renewal, both 2011 ERA and 2011 NYD members can send in one renewal check and receive the combined benefits of monthly entertainment meetings in New York City, monthly receipt of The Bulletin describing national traction news and highlights, receipt of an annual issue of Headlights, as well as receiving notices of several trips each year plus conventions.

Supporting the combined operations of ERA and NYD will require dues to be raised for ERA members in the U.S. from the current level of $35 to $50 effective with the 2012 renewal. For many who are both ERA and NYD members, the new $50 dues will be a savings from the current $85 dues for membership in both ERA and NYD. There will be no change in price for current NYD subscribers. To hold the line on this $50 price, members are encouraged to check the box on their 2012 dues renewal form to receive The Bulletin by e-mail rather than by mail. E-mailed issues will be delivered to you more reliably and quickly and in color, when available.

Please note that price changes will also apply for foreign members. Foreign members will now pay $75 for 2012 instead of the current $38 to $40 in recognition of the large run-up in foreign postage rates. The auxiliary membership fee of $1 remains unchanged.

We look forward to your continued support of ERA’s long record of education and entertainment for those immersed in the treasures of past, current and future traction in North America and worldwide.

Sincerely,

Board of Directors
Electric Railroaders’ Association, Inc.