[RE-wrenches] Wrench Membership Dues

[Ray]

As a user of this list for almost 20 years, it has saved me from costly 
mistakes dozens of times.  Donating just 1% of what this invaluable 
resource has saved me over the years is way beyond the suggested 
donation, but yet is still incredibly cheap.  In that same time period, 
I spent over $30k on my cell service. Think about what this biz would be 
like without this form, and then support it accordingly.  Biz has been 
good, don't be a chump!

Rant off,  Thanks Michael.

Ray Walters
Remote Solar
303 505-8760

On 5/5/21 9:01 PM, drake.chamberlin at redwoodalliance.org wrote:
> Hello Wrench Associates,
>
> While he's made it optional, I want to encourage you to respond to 
> Michael's request for financial support for the Wrench List. Michael 
> Welch founded the list in October of 1999, and has been the 
> administrator of it ever since. He is now working strictly as a 
> volunteer. He deserves our support.
>
> He has suggested a minimum of a $50 donation. Some installers, like 
> me, find the list much more valuable than that, and have upped the 
> ante accordingly.
>
> His email from a couple weeks ago lays out his request. It is pasted 
> below. The following link can be used to pay your dues. It can also be 
> found in the footer of every list email.
>
> http://re-wrenches.org
>
> The List is valuable in many ways.
> •    It often provides a preview of what to expect when trying new 
> equipment.
> •    Many Wrenches give technical support that is superior to 
> manufacturer’s tech support.
> •    The list can get the attention of knowledgeable technical support 
> people from     manufacturers when the agents who answer the phone 
> can't help.
>
> Let’s keep this valuable resource going.
>
> Thank you,
>
> Drake
>
> Drake Chamberlin
> Athens Electric LLC
> Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810
> CO Master Electrician’s License 4526
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>
>
>
> Help Ensure Wrench List Continuance
>
> As you are probably aware, the Wrench List has been under the personal 
> direction of myself via a small, local nonprofit I work with, after 
> Home Power magazine ended sponsorship of the list.
>
> When we announced the sponsorship change back then, I promised that we 
> would start asking for funds from members. At the time I was willing 
> to keep going as a volunteer, which I'm still doing. I spend 8-20 
> hours a week on this list and I'm committed to continuing to do so. 
> But we need to start bringing in funds to help cover list costs, 
> including my time.
>
> It's been over 2 years since the final Home Power financial crises 
> killed its two magazines, ending all our jobs (mine included) and 
> financial support for this listserve. There is no outside funding for 
> this project. Lacking the likelihood of any big corporate sponsors, 
> it's finally time to implement paid Wrench List membership!
>
> Toward that end, we're beginning an annual dues/membership program. 
> But don't worry—nobody will be excluded for lack of contributing. Paid 
> membership is not mandatory, but would be greatly appreciated and will 
> go a long way to ensure The Wrench List's life into the future.
>
> We are suggesting that each individual member contribute an amount 
> commensurate with the value of the list for that member, starting at 
> $50 per year. If you find the Wrench list particularly helpful, and/or 
> your business is doing well, maybe $100 – $300 would be 
> appropriate—it's up to you. Major manufacturers on the list might 
> consider thousands, if they recognize the value the list has to the RE 
> industry. So, if you find this listserve of value please consider 
> membership at the level that works for you.
>
> We've already had a few Wrenches send checks voluntarily—thank you! We 
> look forward to a robust membership as more and more of you join. 
> Membership dues are a legitimate business expense with full business 
> tax benefits, but can also be treated as a tax-exempt donation for 
> individuals who do not have a business.
>
> As always, if you have feedback, questions, or concerns about this, 
> please contact me off-list.
>
> Here's how you can submit your member dues:
>
> By PayPal or Credit Card
>
>
> By mailed check (make payable to Redwood Alliance):
> Redwood Alliance
> RE-Wrenches
> PO Box 293
> Arcata, CA 95518
>
> Thanks for all you do, and looking forward to hearing from you.
>
> View this email in your browser
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