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.chamber...@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.
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