The short answer to your question is "No". Please look at the data I mentioned. The VCA is a nonprofit entity and has a tax exemption. That exemption can be jeopardized by inurement. However, if, by your post, you mean that the local chapter, through local member contributions, is sending money to the national chapter to help subsidize the event in general without a subsidy to particular members, you may be OK. The fact that something was done before is interesting but not proof that what was done in the past was correct.
Perhaps Lee and/or Chris should do a quick check with the VCA accountant on this issue after you provide Lee and/or Chris with the precise facts.