In 1789 Ben Franklin wrote “in this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes” to emphasize unavoidable realities. While many things in life are uncertain, everyone will eventually die and must pay taxes. A common, more modern addition emphasizes that change is also unavoidable. I think nowadays, inflation could easily be added to that proverb. As we wrap up the 39 th running of CRAB, I think back to the first event in 1972. A dollar today was 13-cents in 1972. The current $175 registration fee is the equivalent to $23 back in 1972. Wow, how have things changed. The event was successful and off we go thinking about CRAB 40 and putting our full attention to 2026. SVR, like every other enterprise, is experiencing inflation across many of the events and activities which we put on for the benefit of our members, as well as the day today administration costs associated with running the club. We’re seeing some venues now that we have used in the past starting to add an “event fee” just to reserve space for our group even though participants will pay for their lunch/drinks on their own. Caterers are having to increase their prices from the previous year. Some venues we have used for free have closed and new sites large enough to host our groups aren’t free.
SVR’s policy is that events should break even. Some do, some don’t, but over the course of the year they even out. The Club is in good financial condition. A portion of your annual dues paid to PCA are rebated back to the Regions. SVR uses this to cover administrative costs and to subsidize some events to reduce the cost to attend, most notably the annual Christmas Party. We may be subsidizing other activities this year to help keep the costs down as well. However, you may see increases in event fees this year for some activities. And it’s driven by increased costs being passed along where prudent. Spring is here. We have a full calendar of driving and social events over the next six months. I look forward to seeing you with the steering wheel or a drink in your hand soon.