I'm letting my Silverdale membership expire. I've been a member there for almost 15 years.
It's not because of any issues with the RO's, or Doug/Joan, etc.
It's just simply too busy on the weekends when the weather is good. Yes, I know they've built 3 more action ranges, with 1 supposedly to be used for new shooters/guests only.
But last I heard, they are approaching 4,000 members now. That's great for them, really. But bad for members who can only shoot on the weekends.
I just joined EESA a few days ago. Yeah, it's an extra 30 minute drive (for me), but they have a huge 2-story clubhouse, kitchen, REAL bathrooms, indoor archery (if that's your thing), a 300 meter range, and an INDOOR range on site. The club is run by an elected board, any member can run (after they've been a member on good standing for 12 months). Members also vote on most (all?) changes, and make decisions on how the club's money is spent. No wait list at EESA either, you just need to check their website when the next new member orientation is.
Don't get me wrong, I love Silverdale. As I said, I've been a member there for almost 15 years. I just think they've expanded their membership base way too quickly, and while they've built 3 new action ranges, it's just not enough to handle the huge number of members they have.
OverKill
I'll likely be cancelling my membership if there is no changes this year.
Way too many people, and day passers, or the "new shooter" program seem to be treated better and catered to over existing members.
I watched the place go to hell in the last year, and expect to see some changes for the better this year, or I am gone.
You won't notice if you are just joining, so don't worry about my opinion.
Just another frustrated member being pushed out by the influx of new members....