October 8, 2003

The Schedule

See here.

THE DUES AND DON'TS

-- Patti Harrell, board president

Since my dues announcement at last week's rehearsal was monumentally unclear, let me try again here. As you all doubtless remember, last year's dues were $120. Richard [our treasurer] has found a way to make the dues count as charitable contributions this year.

We're hoping...in fact, our budget assumes...that this means we can expect somewhat larger amounts from everyone. Since the whole amount will be a charitable contribution, most of you will able to give more, while saving enough in taxes to more than make up for the increase. Hopefully, the net result will be that you pay less in the long run, but Redwood Symphony gets more much-needed funding.

As a simplified example, say your marginal income tax rate for state and federal combined is 33%. If you give $150 to the orchestra and deduct it, you save $50 in taxes: $150 is basically equivalent to $100 after taxes.

So here are the basic facts, along with answers to some questions:

Required dues for all regular members: $75. This is the maximum allowed by tax laws that lets the dues automatically count as a charitable contribution.
Our budget assumes an additional contribution of $75. This means we're counting on an average total of $150 from each member. If you can't swing this, that's OK...the required dues amount really is $75...but we really need the help.
Is this considered a charitable contribution? Yes, the full amount--$75, $150, more, or any amount in between--is considered a charitable contribution on state and federal taxes. (Please note: this is what the IRS told us, but we're not tax experts. If you have questions or your situation is complex, please consult your tax advisor.)
Do acting members need to pay? No, we don't require acting members to pay.
Can we pay in installments? Sure. Just let Richard or Patti know how you'd like to break it up, so that we'll know what to expect when.
Does this mean the orchestra won't need the extra donations that many of us made last year? Well, no. The dues still don't cover our new venue expenses, which appear to be increasing again this year. We're making good progress on learning to work with our new financial situation, but like most orchestras we still count on donations to make ends meet. Your help is gratefully appreciated!

If anyone has questions or issues, please see Richard or any of the musician board members (Peter Stahl, Ann Walker, George Yefchak, Steve Ruppenthal, or Patti Harrell).

Thanks,
--Patti

Lobbyist Needed

Well, not really. But, we do need volunteers to help in the lobby at our next concert.

If you have family members or friends that can help out, please let us know. (Let who know? Good question! Contact info could not be finalized before this issue went to press.)

Valerie Sarfaty, who usually runs lobby operations, will not be available for the upcoming concert. So we really need extra volunteers this time!

Program Deadlines

For program notes, donor lists, soloist bios, advertisements, etc.

Materials to George (oboe) by Wednesday, November 12
To Press on Friday, November 14

This is a Web version of text from the newsletter "Redwood Symphony Notepad" which is distributed to members of the Redwood Symphony at rehearsals. The newsletter and this online version are edited by George Yefchak.

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