The Board of Directors has unanimously authorized a revision to the Club's award fee structure. This decision supports the Club's ongoing financial stability and sustains its capacity to acknowledge members' on-air accomplishments.
Award fees constitute the primary revenue stream for the Club. The most recent fee adjustment occurred in 2006; subsequently, there was a reduction in fees in 2016, at a time when postage and materials were significantly less expensive than at present. Since that period, the cost of mailing a two-ounce certificate envelope has increased by over 60 percent, accompanied by higher prices for paper, toner, and related supplies.
Throughout these years, award fees have remained unchanged while operational expenses have continued to escalate, leading to six deficit years out of the past eight and a gradual depletion of the treasury to support core activities such as web hosting, domain registration, and meeting platforms. The updated rates are designed to restore financial stability and ensure the Club’s ongoing sustainability, while preserving the accessibility central to our awards program.
To reduce printing and postage costs, all Baker's Dozen CoAs will now be issued by e-mail in PDF format at no charge. A printed certificate may be requested by the recipient for the standard printed-award fee ($6 regular / $5 senior).
The new fees take effect March 1, 2026.
Going forward, the Treasurer, the Awards Committee, and the Board will review fees on a structured five-year cycle to ensure the Club remains on stable footing. This thoughtful approach replaces the long gaps and last-minute changes of the past, giving both members and volunteers predictability and transparency.
The 3905 Century Club remains proud of its awards heritage and grateful to every member whose participation keeps the nets active and the community thriving. These modest adjustments will help preserve that legacy well into the future.
