Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the assessment higher than what was first announced?
The assessment for Cape May is now $4,000.
The initial $2,500 estimate was based on the “Cartagena model,” where each member brought only one guest couple. For Cape May, members agreed to resume our Father’s Day party structure to accommodate 8 guests per member (plus spouses). Hosting 170 people over three days at a premier Jersey Shore hotel is a much larger and more expensive operation than originally envisioned.
2. What is the current financial status of the event?
The event is officially underway. To secure the best dates and entertainment, the club has already paid $3,500 in non-refundable deposits:
- $2,500 to The Grand Hotel.
- $1,000 to the UGO Band. Since no member assessments have been collected yet, the club is currently “loaning” this money from our general reserves to keep the event on the books.
3. Why can’t we just use the club reserves to cover the difference?
The reserves are the club’s “emergency fund.” While we are using them to float the deposits right now, we need to replenish them to keep the club’s bank balance healthy. Relying on reserves to fund a planned party would leave us without a safety net for unexpected expenses.
4. What am I actually getting for $4,000?
This includes:
- Three days of high-end food and beverage service.
- The Friday night Pink Party (food included).
- Saturday Formal with a 3-course dinner and the UGO Band.
- Sunday Father’s Day Brunch.
- Massages for spouses and a professional photographer.
- All NJ sales tax and hotel service charges for the Formal and Brunch.
5. When is the payment due?
We know this is more than anyone originally budgeted for, and we want to give everyone time to plan accordingly. The deadline for the full assessment is May 15th.
6. How many people are actually paying for this?
The budget is shared across our 18 active members. These 18 members are essentially hosting the entire weekend for our families, guests, and our Emeritus members and their spouses.
7. Who do I talk to if I have concerns?
We want everyone to be comfortable with the direction of this event. If you have questions about the line items or the budget breakdown, please reach out to Terry or Peter. We’re happy to chat!