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kevinmac
Admiral

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USA
732 Posts

Initially Posted - 12/09/2007 : 08:44:04

Folks,

I have discovered that I made a mistake letting Frank twist my arm into becoming commodore. There are several reasons:

1.) The other officers all (I think all, not sure) want to do a dues increase of varying amounts, and I just don't want to do that, I would rather make the mainsheet optional after the first year of membership, or sacrifice the financial support for cruising and racing events, small as it is, that several of the other officers would like to increase.
2.) This creates a conflict that I find I just don't have the interest or energy to manage the association through. I am the one that is out of step with the group, so it is easier for me just to step aside.
3.) Everyone said that being commodore was easier and less work than secretary. I did not find this so, at least for my personality type the worries about everything I am responsible for.
4.) I *may* be getting a new boat in the next month, perhaps even probably (I am waiting to attend the survey next week after it got delayed from Friday). I need to sail this boat from San Diego to Portland, refit it in Portland, then sail it to Bellingham, WA where it will be in charter service. This process is taking a HUGELY greater amount of time that I realized when I started it. It makes the association have to take a back seat, and that is not a good position for a commodore to put it in.

With my resignation, Bill Meinert, the current vice commodore, effectively becomes commodore. I will continue to be available to answer questions about the projects that I have been involved in, and will continue to be a member of the association as long as I have my C250.

Thanks for your support while I was Secretary, and then briefly, commodore.

Kevin

Edited by - on

JimB517
Past Commodore

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USA
3285 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 10:58:06

let me know if you want crew for the delivery

Edited by - on

Arlyn Stewart
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
2980 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 11:16:59

Thank you Kevin for your obvious integrity and honest sharing of your reasons for stepping aside.

Regarding being out of step... I disagree that it is you that is out of step. The association has some history of the issue you describe and the destructive nature of it when leaders activities are funded by the membership dime.

I suggest that your perspective is the wise one in avoiding an era of destruction if such a policy is adopted of increasing dues to fund special interest by a few.

I give notice to leaders who may go that route that I'll personally be very vocal in opposing any dues increases for the purpose of funding racing or cruising interest of a few members.

I further oppose dropping the Mainsheet subscription so that funds might be diverted to special interest individuals.

I urge the remaining leadership team not to take the association this direction as it will be very destructive to the association.

Edited by - on

Sea Trac
Master Marine Consultant

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Vanuatu
1357 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 11:20:43

<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by kevinmac
 1.) The other officers all (I think all, not sure) want to do a dues increase of varying amounts, and I just don't want to do that, I would rather make the mainsheet optional after the first year of membership, or sacrifice the financial support for cruising and racing events, small as it is, that several of the other officers would like to increase.<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">
It should be remembered that Article III Section C of the Association's Constitution and By-Laws stipulates:

"A vote of the Officers (Article VIII, Section B) shall be needed to adjust the annual membership dues amount, such adjustment not to occur more than once yearly, as seen fit to meet the financial needs of the Association. However, any annual increase or decrease in excess of ten percent (10%) shall be fixed by a vote of the Regular Members (Article VIII, Section A)."

Therefore, any dues increase enacted by the sitting Officer group this year would be limited to a maximum $2.20 without Member approval and, therefore, would accrue no more than $1,500 over the course of the twelve months following said increase.

The quoted article was included in the revised Constitution and By-Laws in order to protect the interests of the membership-at-large against "individual benefit" type scenarios, as laid out by Arlyn.

Edited by - Sea Trac on 12/09/2007 12:17:54

Tom Potter
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1913 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 11:41:58

Kevin,
I'm sorry to hear your stepping down, but I can understand why. Your reason #1 bothers me as well. This talk of a dues increase sounds to me like a "Junket Tax" to support the very small number of members that attend a few gatherings and the nationals. That don't sit well with me either.

I hope your boat deal works out for you okay.

Edited by - Tom Potter on 12/09/2007 11:45:50

Dave Bristle
Master Marine Consultant

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Djibouti
10005 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 12:11:22

Thanks, Kevin, for of your service, past and present. It appears to me your reasons might be in reverse order of priority (or causal relationship). You probably would have had plenty of support if the issue had been aired to the membership. From what I can see, for a huge majority, these forums are the association, and the events are for a few dozen members. I always believed that the national regatta should be substantially funded by its participants--that it has no benefit to the great majority of the membership. These are starter-cruisers that, like any sailboat, can sail around a course--they are not racers. Those few who really enjoy the competition enough to make the trip can find the scratch to have a shot at a "national championship".

Local fleets can happen without sponsorship of an international organization--some of the best locals aren't 25-foot-specific or even Catalina-specific. They are sailors who work together to organize group activities of mutual interest. (Long Island Sound Catalina Association, LISCA, is an example.) These forums can make people aware of each other and aware of existing groups.

But I'm just an alumnus--I'll shut up now.

Edited by - on

dave holtgrave
Captain

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USA
427 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 12:13:50

wow!!!!1
i'll throw in my two cents.

what do i as sitting in the midwest get out of my dues??

i get the class website that has taken in the other catalina boats that are equals.

i get a mainsheet 4 times a year.

it's worth what i pay

to charge me more????????????

i get the mainsheet when some of the events or sale specials are over.

dave holtgrave
5722 sk/tr
hard and raining today near carlyle lake in southern illinois.

Edited by - on

RCarie
1st Mate

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USA
51 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 13:25:36

Kevin,
Thank you for your time and effort. And, Good luck with your next project.

I'd also like to thank the other Officers for their time.

About the dues options: I think the whole issue should be abandoned. The Association Home page says enough: This web site is made possible by Catalina 25, Catalina 250, and Capri 25 sailboat owners who have joined this International Association. In order for us to continue our efforts to organize and promote ownership of these fine vessels, we need the support of all the non-members who use this web site regularly. Current membership is only $22.00 a year ($28.00 USD International or outside the contiguous 48). With your paid membership, you receive Catalina Yacht’s Mainsheet magazine, The Association’s Telltale newsletter as well as discounts at select retailers, discounted boating organization memberships and more.

I'd like to think the the "more" part is continued support for such a fine vessel. It was said a few forums back that we should continue to promote the 25's to show their worth and value. This site, racing, cruising and the Mainsheet does just that. I don't have the data to argue the Association expenses, but I hope the Association will continue to financially subsidize Association events. I think any time others can see more than one 25 out having fun it will be better in the long run. The active 25 sailor might just be able to convince a future sailor to pick a 25. It could be considered a win win for every 25 owner. As for those not wanting the Mainsheet Magazine: Give it to a power boater, or leave it at your Club. Again it will be a win for the Catalina Owners, and Regional Fleets.
And Dave, Lets keep in touch. I'll be on your Lake March 14-18 for our Lafayette Sailing Club Winter Cruise. I'll start something in the Cruising section.
Randy Carie
C25 #5947

Edited by - on

Nautiduck
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3704 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 13:27:58

Thank you for your service Kevin. In the interest of a more informed discussion, could someone who is a proponent of a dues increase for particular purposes please post your view of the issue. I'm really not sure what everyone is posting about. Thanks.

Edited by - on

RCarie
1st Mate

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USA
51 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 13:54:29

Randy & Pat,
Do a word search for "meeting" to find the Officers minutes. I found this:

We discussed possibly raising dues. It was suggested that we need to promote more cruising events and dry land off season events, such as get togethers at the major boat shows (i.e. Strictly Sail and the Annapolis Sailboat shows). Since the Strictly Sail Shows are coast to coast, the Midwest, and Canada as well, this will offer ample opportunity for our members to meet share ideas camaraderie and feel like they are getting more from the Association. Therefore, we need funding for these events and the association sponsored cruises as well.

Randy Carie
C25, #5947

Edited by - on

wmeinert@kconline.com
Past Commodore

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USA
353 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 14:02:53

Jan - Nov '07 Jan - Nov '06 $ Change % Change
Ordinary Income/Expense
Income
Membership Dues 11,242.29 13,036.94 -1,794.65 -13.77%
Miscellaneous Income 1,101.43 255.20 846.23 331.6%
Ships Store Sales 195.00 397.00 -202.00 -50.88%
Total Income 12,538.72 13,689.14 -1,150.42 -8.4%

Edited by - on

RCarie
1st Mate

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USA
51 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 14:08:25

Bill,
Time to change your icon. Thanks for the budget info.
Randy
West Lafayette

Edited by - on

wmeinert@kconline.com
Past Commodore

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USA
353 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 14:53:58

It is a very sad time when someone we enjoy working with resigns. We all have those thoughts and I'm not happy that Kevin decided to do so at this time.

If you understand "Small Group Work" and the process, there are many steps.
1. Address the task. Our task is to maintain the financial health of our Organization. And as of the above posted end of year numbers we have lost $1500 dollars in INCOME over last year. The cost of sending a MAINSHEET to each member is $14 ayear, not including postage. So these were just only two of the TASK we are working on.
2. Gather Information: this is what we are in the process of. IT IS PAINFULL, Kevin doesnt like I don't like it no one does! So you just want us to hide and not address these Items, What do you pay for Gas? The cost of doing business is going up so we must research alternatives.
3. Look at statistics and Brainstorm: This is where we are currently at, brainstorming, and yes we do want to hear from our members, that is why we post the minutes every month.
4. Come up with Solutions: we will as soon as we finished steps 2&3.
5. Test the Solutions: We will by asking for your vote or decent ions if needed, we do have operational guidelines that allow us some flexibility.
6. Implement the solution: Who knows when? Not until we complete 2, 3, 4, &5
7. Reevaluate the solution:

As a Professor of Professional Communication, not only do I teach small group communication, I do live it. My biggest fear when I hear from members that have posted "just leave things alone" is that we will all suffer from "Group Think", Group think was the number one leading contributor to the 1985 Space Shuttle Disaster. When groups believe they are in fallible and maintain status quo with out proper planning, investigation and allowance for INDIVIDUAL VOICE from the group members failure we surely follow.

Please give us time, we have only met twice since the election, Kevin has only made one meeting, we are now backed up again to find a replacement, ANY Volunteers???

Edited by - on

saribella
Captain

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USA
286 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 15:31:54

I have been kind of following the issues loosely and have not yet formed an opinion. If everyone could be in agreement that I would be an objective and independant representative, as well as being capable of offering viable solutions to the probelms; then I will throw my hat in the ring for Vice-Commodore.

Edited by - saribella on 12/09/2007 15:32:26

wmeinert@kconline.com
Past Commodore

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USA
353 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 15:37:28

Mathew, thanks I will add your name to the list too! Let you know by the end of next week.

Edited by - on

John Russell
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3444 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 16:32:41

First, thanks Kevin for both your service and your candor.

I, like many, (as far as i can discern from the last year's participation in the forum) see this association as synonomous with this forum. The racing holds no interest for me. If we should ever meet for a drink at a boat show, I won't need the association to buy me a coldie. The MAINSHEET is of little value to me and, as was said in a previous thread, Catalina should probably pick up the tab for that out of their marketing budget. That notwithstanding, I think the relationship with the manufacturer is important so we should work to continue that. If it means buying the MAINSHEET, so be it.

Bill, you showed how our income has decreased. You didn't post expenditures. Does that mean we currently have a deficit? If so, then last in first out, IMO, would be the appropriate approach to fiscal solvency.

What was actually in the minutes was
<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by Justin4192
 We discussed possibly raising dues. It was suggested that we need to promote more cruising events and dry land off season events, such as get togethers at the major boat shows (i.e. Strictly Sail and the Annapolis Sailboat shows).<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">
What this would suggest to me Bill, if we follow your steps appropriately, a decision should be made on whether or not the association wants to "promote more cruising events and dry land off season events, such as get togethers at the major boat shows" Then, and only then, should the discussion about how to pay for them begin.

It began, if I recall correctly, with the Chicago show last year when there was a surplus of cash reported. It was almost a "Hey guys, I got this idea" kind of thing. That makes sense. Extra money-- throw a party!!!

But, we shouldn't be in the business of generating revenue for that purpose.

You said that the cost of doing business is going up. Is that just a reflection of sponsoring the boat show gatherings and races? Or, is the cost of this website increasing? Administrative overhead? Mailings? Bookkeeping?

BTW, Bill, I don't want to end up in Abilene eating ice cream I didn't want either.

But, it seems the groupthink that has already occurred is that the officers have assumed that the expenditures quoted above are, in fact, what the organization actually wants. I don't know that that is the case.

Thank you, Bill, for your service and your candor.

Edited by - on

Steve Milby
Past Commodore

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USA
5908 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 16:48:23

Since it's inception in 1983, this Association has organized an annual National Regatta that cost the Association virtually nothing. The cruisers didn't resent it, because they weren't asked to pay for it. There was a year or two when the officers decided that their expenses to attend the national regatta should be paid by the Association, and the animosity that it generated almost destroyed the organization. In recent years, the National Regatta expenses increased because the Association paid for meals for members who attended the event. It was a nice idea, but I don't believe a single member attended the National Regatta in order to get the free meal. Therefore, if the purpose of the free meals was to encourage attendance, then it failed. If free meals were furnished at any other get-togethers, I believe that was likewise a generous gesture to make with Association funds, but not a significant benefit to the Association.

The officers need to be clear about what are the essential functions of the association, and to understand that this is not General Motors. Were just a small, national association of people who love to sail, and love our boats, and enjoy our camaraderie. We don't need, and the association can't afford, to lure us to events with a promise of a meal or drinks.

The Association relies on it's members to volunteer to serve for a year or two as it's officers. Most people don't expect to be paid for their service, and those who do needn't apply. Running the National Association isn't rocket science. It's very simple. You keep membership records, collect dues, pay the bills, organize one national regatta each year, and find volunteers who are willing to succeed you in office next year. Our needs are simple, and the members don't want the officers to make it complicated.

The Mainsheet has been a benefit of our membership since 1983. It's not the greatest sailing magazine, but it's specific to our boats, and to Catalinas generally, and it's a place where we can find stories about our boats, and information about our boats. The quality of that information depends entirely on the quality of our own input into the magazine.

But, that isn't enough to satisfy some people. Since 1983, nearly every group of new officers has wanted to reorganize and change everything. They want to change the Class rules, the by-laws, and everything else that comes to mind. The problem with that is, that, more often than not, the people who are tinkering with the Class Rules, for example, don't really understand them, and are more likely to booger them up than to correct anything. We just had the Class Rules amended by some knowledgeable people. We should leave them alone. If we make a change, it should only be a few words, to correct a specific problem, and not an across-the-board revision.

If anyone proposes that we sponsor a new event or provide a new service, the first question asked should be, "Will it pay it's own way?" If the answer is no, then the proposal should be rejected, because the association's resources are limited.

I see that the Association's income appears to have declined somewhat recently, but what I think most of us want to know is, when you cut away all the discretionary expenses in our budget, are we able to pay our essential expenses without a dues increase? If so, then I think most members will prefer to eliminate discretionary expenses before considering a dues increase.

Edited by - on

Arlyn Stewart
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
2980 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 17:44:37

I'm not sure how much changes in ten years regarding what the membership wants. Then, the officers decided to raise membership fees from $20 to $35 for the purpose of supporting racing. The membership spoke out against it and the officers wrongly began censoring the forum and removing criticism of the racing subsidy.

An alternative forum was brought online within a couple of days and the association forum died a quick death. The whole leadership team resigned and special elections produced a recovery and reversal to the $20 membership fee.

I'd suggest the history of that rejection should be taken as a signal to think carefully before assuming that the membership will fall in step.

This is a hot issue with the power to be divisive. Even if a membership vote approved doing so, it would undoubtedly cost members.

Edited by - on

Frank Hopper
Past Commodore

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Pitcairn Island
6776 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 20:08:34

Given the opportunity to vote on a dues increase I would vote against it.

The by-laws provide for the VC to act as Commodore in the event the Commodore is unable to, they do not say the VC ascends to the Commodore position. The by-laws do allow the Officers to elect a replacement; Article III section D. Unfortunately this should also be referenced in Article VIII section B but during the posting of by-law revisions it was not posted there. I would suggest that the officers call for volunteers to fill the position of Commodore. People who presume malfeasance by board members should ensure there is none by volunteering to run for office. Volunteering to serve is much more constructive than warnings. Even if this board raised dues up to the limit allowed by the by-laws without a vote the next board can rescind it.

When the idea to subsidize "cruising events" was brought up and approved by the board there were two safety valves implemented. First was that it could not exceed $350, second it required a written request with justification and the approval of the officers to authorize the money. This was in response to several things, not the least of which was a desire to equalize the use of association money between our Nationals event and members who do not race, this was an honest effort to make things more "fair". Periodically people try to organize a "rendezvous" which is a great idea, it was hoped this money would promote that end. If the association cannot afford it then the officers should turn down the requests when they come in.

Edited by - on

Dave Bristle
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Djibouti
10005 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 20:52:22

The $350 event stipend was indeed a reasonable response to the feelings that Nationals were for a tiny, select few. I won't express any other opinions on that type of expenditure except to say the whole event-funding issue is one that could deter dues payments--I don't know.

I will, however, suggest that Bill Meinert be "elected" commodore by the board, if he is willing, and that a vice be recruited. Bill has come "through the ranks" to be elected to the vice position, has been involved on the board, and has proven his dedication to the cause. IMHO, the new recruit should start out on the board, but probably not as its leader initially.

Again, thanks to all who serve and have served. Peace.

Edited by - on

saribella
Captain

Members Avatar

USA
286 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 20:53:07

[u]<blockquote id="quote">quote:<hr height="1" noshade id="quote">Originally posted by Arlyn Stewart
 I'm not sure how much changes in ten years regarding what the membership wants. Then, the officers decided to raise membership fees from $20 to $35 for the purpose of supporting racing. The membership spoke out against it and the officers wrongly began censoring the forum and removing criticism of the racing subsidy.

An alternative forum was brought online within a couple of days and the association forum died a quick death. The whole leadership team resigned and special elections produced a recovery and reversal to the $20 membership fee.

I'd suggest the history of that rejection should be taken as a signal to think carefully before assuming that the membership will fall in step.

This is a hot issue with the power to be divisive. Even if a membership vote approved doing so, it would undoubtedly cost members.
<hr height="1" noshade id="quote"></blockquote id="quote">

I truly think there is a viable middle ground and a creative way to make everyone happy within this matter. Lets face it, racing is not the majority function of this organization, but on the other side there is a minority which does. Both aspects inherently attract a diverse cross section of sailors/owners and potential sailor/owners to the 25 foot Catalina of varying pedigrees. I personally believe that this is the strength of the association and should be/is structured accordingly to first promote participation on every level, and function second. This website is a testament to this premise.

The Board does not have the luxury of being in a position to not take into account the constituency when addressing change, and should make & has made attempts of varying degrees to accommodate the consensus of differing factions. Change, in moderation, is sometimes necessary for progression and survival; this is inherent. Sometimes opportunities and opinions present themselves which can help/hinder the organization if not dealt with properly, untimely, or hastily. The trick is knowing the difference, and understanding that simplicity has its benefits. I personally believe that a solution can be found that will not cost membership, but can also attract new membership.

Having had time ponder on the issues there are definitely workable ideas, but obviously some decisions have to be made. The rope walk here is assume nothing and considering every option with transparency. The current issue of change is obviously about $'s , for what, and its allocation. I think the Executive Board alone should find three of the best options between the schools of thought and present them before both the voting and non-voting membership for comment. Then go back to the drawing board, and present a final draft for comment. If there is a vote or modification to the by-laws needed to effectuate moderate change, then so be it. Dealing with issues such as these is exactly why an elected executive board exists, and is not managed arbitrarily by one or a few.

My .02

Edited by - saribella on 12/09/2007 21:40:53

Nautiduck
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3704 Posts

Response Posted - 12/09/2007 : 22:23:00

Lots of good information flowing here. As for me I am going to wait for more information from the Board about proposed dues and how the money is used. To be honest, I can spend $35 on my boat in the blink of an eye. That is not the kind of money to get me energized. It is also clear that no one is getting rich off of this association. Let's be thankful for this great forum and our association, and let the Board do its work and propose whatever it wishes to the members. Then we can decide whether we support it or not.

Edited by - on

OLarryR
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3477 Posts

Response Posted - 12/10/2007 : 06:11:18

What is an Association ? For many it may simply mean contributing to maintaining this Forum/Website, distribution of the magazine/newsletter. But for others, an Association means other things such as supporting Association events. The issue is what kind of balance should there be without having to raise dues and potential suffer a decline in membership.

Without a doubt the main benefit derived from all that are members (as well as those that are not members) is being able to communicate on this Forum and also access the technical tips and other useful sections of this website. We have discussed this before, that to limit the Forum to only dues paying members may be detrimental to acquiring new members an not make up for any attrition rate of existing members. I think, though, that some efforts should be made to increase membership and thus head off any dues increases. We also need to provide some limited support for Association events but with limits so as not to turn off all those paying for events that they will never or not likely attend.

Why not continue to list the category/rank of members only on the forum (ie. Shipmate, Captain, Admiral, etc) and for non-paying supporters of the Forum tally their postings and responses but just list them as "Guest". that is a slight constant reminder that they are a non-paying memeber of the Association. Supporting the Association is just a measly $22...maybe it will encourage some to then become members.

As far as support for the Association events....that's a tough one...how do we strike a good balance between paying the expenses for all the other core functions of the Association that most have connection with and yet also provide some support for events that should be maintained but only attended by a very small percentage of the membership. pay for an Association lunch/meals but not the event fee...pay for the Event fee but not meals....a limited percentage of the dues...maybe 10% which then will fluctuate with the total membership each year. I don't have the answers to these issues but i know i am in the dark somewhat regarding the total income versus total expenses and the sources/percentages of each.

I thank Kevin and the Board for taking on voluntary functions assisting in maintaining the Association.

Edited by - OLarryR on 12/10/2007 06:13:53

DoubleD
1st Mate

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USA
61 Posts

Response Posted - 12/10/2007 : 06:47:52

My impression from this thread is that a lot of our dues money goes to pay the way of the racers and the dues increase will pay for the partying of a few.

I participated in the Nationals the last two years, the only two times I have ever raced. The Association did not pay for my travel, my hotel, my meals, my bar bill, my entry fees or anything else. As far as I know,the Association paid for trophies.

Here is my perception of the Officer meeting notes and the dues increase. The officers are trying to get more members involved in local sailing and cameraderie. Currently racers and cruisers are in the minority. Most members take their boat to one lake and keep it there for the season. Suggestions like getting together at Sailboat shows and hanging out together are good suggestions by the Officers to boost participation. Past attempts have failed and the suggestion of having the Association pay for a get together is another suggestion to see if it will boost participation. It is just a suggestion. It is obvious from this thread that no one wants a dues increase.

If we need a dues increase to cover minimal expenses, like the Mainsheet magazine, then I feel it is worth it. Twenty dollars is chump change, especially if you own a boat.

I know I am in the minority here, but I have to tow my boat every time I want to sail. The trailer was the reason I bought the boat in the first place. I decided on the C-25 because of my research and this board. A minimum tow for me is 4 hours. My longest trip was to the Keys last winter. My point here is that I like what the Officers are trying to do, get members involved, and enjoy sailing all over the country. I am willing to tow my boat just about anywhere for some extended activities with members of this Association.

Edited by - on

Steve Milby
Past Commodore

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USA
5908 Posts

Response Posted - 12/10/2007 : 08:10:54

I agree that the officers should elect Bill Meinert Commodore. I can't think of anyone who has contributed more to the Association than Bill, taking on the task of organizing our national regattas at times when we really needed someone to do it. He didn't do it because anyone expected it of him, or because he expected to be rewarded in any way. He did it because it needed to be done, and Bill's there when you need him.

I have nothing against change, but, a bull in a china shop will change things. We don't need that kind of change. We need the kind of change that a brain surgeon makes, narrowly targeted, and to a specific purpose.

I don't have a problem with a dues increase, if it's necessary, but I don't think it's necessary, and I would be unalterably opposed to a dues increase if we can live within our means by eliminating unproductive expenses.

When a person is thinking about attending a national regatta, he thinks about whether he can afford to take time off from work, and whether he wants to do the work of hauling, launching and setting up his boat repeatedly. The incentive to do all that is his confidence that he's going to have a lot of fun at the event, racing and socializing with his fellow sailors. Nobody, noooobody, would be influenced in his decision to attend by a promise that he'll get a free meal. It was a well-intentioned idea worth trying, but it isn't worth what it's costing the association, and it's time to accept that fact.

The problem with trying to organize a get-together at the big sailboat shows is that people can't agree on when they're going to be there. Some want to attend on a Thursday or Friday, and others want to attend on Saturday or Sunday. Sometimes people plan to attend on Friday, and then their plans change at the last minute, and they don't attend until Saturday. It's very difficult to organize a get-together. I attend the Annapolis show and the Chicago show, and repeatedly check in at the Catalina display at the agreed-upon times, and at other times, and I never meet our members, and, if there's a plan to meet elsewhere at a certain time and place, nobody at the Catalina display knows about it.

Edited by - on

John Russell
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
3444 Posts

Response Posted - 12/10/2007 : 09:21:38

FWIW, this particular topic is getting the association a little bad press elsewhere.

http://www.sailboatowners.com/forums/pviewall.tpl?fno=25& uid=73309729675& sku=2007343122237.81& rid=2007344071953.61

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