Letter to the editor
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Just a couple of questions you may have no answers for, but would appreciate any insight you have so that I may pass it on to the many who have ask me these questions.

First, one cannot help but ask themselves why both Rent a Center and Rent Way both dropped out at the same time? As many long time supporters of APRO are probably asking; Who dropped the ball, and who possibly let their ego affect our group to this extent? All members deserve some better answers than we are currently getting, and APRO needs to find a way to get these two back to the table.

Can APRO survive without these two? Obviously the answer is yes but, to what degree. The costs of running APRO are obviously much higher than those of the 90's when Rent a Center dropped out for a short time. How big of an affect will this have? We are already seeing it with the dismissal of Ron Waters (see story). What will the affect of this be on our Federal efforts, not to mention how it affects the credibility of our association to those on the outside (friends and foe alike)? Unity has been our strength, not only for our members but, also to those who misunderstand what we do.

Second, if both companies are going to refocus their money and attention at the state level, then the next question may become; What does APRO have to offer that smaller companies cannot get through the state associations? The short term and long term affect of these companies getting more involved at a state level, may cause some to question the value of paying APRO due's or attending APRO conventions.

These two giants will be at our state meetings with much easier access and a more open dialogue within the small group settings that state meetings tend to have. A personal comment, increased participation by both companies is very welcome at the state level.

While I realize no one has a crystal ball on these questions, they are being pondered by many I am sure. My purpose for sending these comments and questions, is that you may continue to inform all RTO dealers of any information you may gain related to these issues. I am a big fan of state associations but I am concerned about APRO and the impression this gives to all.

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