What a coincidence...my dad was a member of IBEW Local #5 for 45 years; two of my brothers are out of local #760. I had no idea we had so much in common.
To address your question, Judy, I think that NALTEA's ability to be a positive force in our industry will be directly proportional to the number of members we are able to enlist. True, NALTEA is not a union, it's a trade organization. I see NALTEA's role primarily as an advocate for the concerns of its membership. I can see the day when it will be large enough to function as a lobbying group similar to ALTA and the various state land title associations. It's now in its infancy, but feed it right and it can grow into a force to be reckoned with.
The dues are nominal...it works out to just shy of $17.00 per month. I can't speak for yours and David's company, but I spend more than that per month just on postage. By that, I certainly don't mean to minimize your concerns about expenses; I'm out here slugging away just as you are, and I face the same economic pressures as everyone else. I might also add that my accountant has told me that NALTEA membership dues are tax deductible.
Personally, I view my NALTEA membership as an investment in the future of the independent abstractor. It's like any other investment--it has the potential to pay tremendous dividends, but it needs human capital to realize those dividends. The surest way to ensure that NALTEA will NOT accomplish anything is to stand by and do nothing. At least that's my take on it.
In other words, Judy, (and anyone else reading this), we're stronger with you than without you.
Regards,
Scott L. Perry, President
Jireh Business Information Solutions, Inc.
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