from the chairman...

For some months now we have been hearing almost daily in the press and on television about possible public spending cuts and their impact on us. This led me to reflect on the discussion at our AGM in April about Kendra finances. As it was a rather thinly attended meeting I thought it would be of interest to let you know of the discussion. Sadly, over the years membership numbers have declined as well as advertising income which has impacted on our funds. Advertising income used to cover the cost of the Newsletter but that is not the case at this time, and the result is that we are beginning to eat into our reserves. Naturally, this is of concern as it reduces our ability to support local community events which are clearly valued. The AGM was not in favour of increasing subscriptions but preferred to try to reduce the cost and quality of the Newsletter. Additionally, the Committee decided to review the advertising rates which have not been increased for a number of years; our proposals which we are putting to advertisers are expected to allow the newsletter to break even.

Let's now turn to how we spend your subscriptions. We are keen to support events which benefit the whole community. To this end we have since its inception supported the Kenley Common Funday (to be held this year on Sunday, 11 July). We have donated £1,000 this year. We have also donated £1,000 to the RAF Kenley Air Day (14 August) and you will see from the article in this Newsletter of the treats that are in store for us. We have donated £500 towards the replacement of the floor in the Kenley Memorial Hall. Finally, we have given £75 towards the cost of the hanging baskets along Norfolk Parade. You will recall that last year the flower display won an award in the Croydon in Bloom competition. We are keen to be able to continue to support such events and for this reason we are continuing to look to increase our income – hence the article about the Amazon Associates programme at the front of this Newsletter.

Have a very pleasant summer and I look forward to meeting you at the Funday and the Airfield Day.

Sheila Morris, Chairman

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