I too went to the Academy meeting in New Orleans, I too feel that the
individual practitioner is not for the consolidation effort, but the we
really have no say in the matter, it is a done deal unless the individual
can get motivated to stop this abuse. The problem is with the National
Office being bloated and out of control, the Academy which should represent
the research and development of ideas as well as practitioners needs to
remain an independent organization. The Academy membership is growing, and
growing strong. AOPA might be in a bit more of a predicament as they dare
dependant on the manufactures, suppliers and facilities for their income.
With many small practices that could have joined AOPA being bought by the
two National Giants (who are helping to ruin the profession by their absurd
contracts) and therefore they more than likely will not join as their parent
company already is a member. ABC is also looking a t loosing revenue in the
future as the path for certification is at the point where the new eligible
candidates are not near enough to replace those who have retired from the
profession. Remember these three organizations are a business and they need
members as income.
Author’s name witheld
