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2008 Minutes

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                        HALIFAX SAILING ASSOCIATION

                              BOARD MEETING MINUTES

                                       MARCH 13TH, 2008

Board Members Attending:

 

Commodore, Bill Field

First Vice Commodore, Roger Cutler

Fleet Vice Commodore, Sue Moni

Membership Vice Commodore, Peter O’Brien

Events Vice Commodore, Carolyn Long

Treasurer, Christopher Likes

Secretary, Patricia Whitsitt

Past Commodore, Gary Smith

Hobie Fleet, Steve Caron

HRYC, Pat Adsit

 

Absent:

Embry-Riddle, Jim Cunningham

 

Others in Attendance:

 

Pete Haley

Cindy Caron

Jim Needham

Ned Wolfarth

Jeff Zipay

Mike Stambersky

Angela Campbell

Jimmy Deans

 

Old Business:

 

Commodore Field called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.   A motion to accept the January Board meeting minutes was made by Christopher Likes, seconded by Pat Adsit.

 

Bill Field said we have no new news about the planned Skate Park just outside of the HSA facilities and also that we are still waiting for the sand needed to complete our own paver project. He then went ahead and opened the River Ratz discussion, beginning with the document that Peter O’Brien worked up for the Club, with Pat Adsit quickly offering that it was not really necessary to read it out loud in it’s entirety, Bill then taking up the document for the River Ratz that Pete Haley had submitted earlier in the afternoon.

 

As Bill went down the list of specifications, taking each in turn, some important policy was suggested.  Under consideration by the Board, the River Ratz is an organization within the Club.  HSA would provide the River Ratz with a budget that would be reviewed by the Board in January of each year, and that the Ratz would not compete with the HSA Sail Camp. Further discussion brought an understanding that HSA would keep all boats used by the River Ratz in good sailable condition, with the Ratz themselves paying for any “extras” they want in order to bring the boats closer to “race condition”. It was determined that the Ratz would not be fund-raising at HSA, nor at the HRYC, and that all of their events must be coordinated with HSA Events Vice Commodore and with the Fleet Vice Commodore. Also, the River Ratz must have an instructor that is fully ‘Accredited by USSailing’. There was good discussion that previous to the development of the River Ratz, HSA had no means of higher levels of sail instruction for the youth of our area.

 

Christopher Likes told all present how the proposed budget allocation  for the River Ratz would work, with any monies they have left at the end of the year rolling over into the following year for their own future use, and with the understanding that the Ratz would make a full accounting of costs, expenditures, and ways in which they have raised their own funds, to the Board. Commodore Field specified that they must do any and all fund-raising under the name ‘HSA River Ratz’ vs. just plain ‘River Ratz’. Chris said he could open another, but separate, HSA bank account with the Board-allotted River Ratz money that would be solely for their own use.  Such an account would require two signatures on each check, one being that of either Commodore Field or Treasurer Likes. The money they raise will be put into this fund; the money they spend will come from same. At this time, Christopher, Bill, and the Board are awaiting a budget from the River Ratz, in writing. This business plan/budget will have a full breakdown of expected expenditures in order to determine how much money HSA can provide to H.S.A’s RR. 

 

The representatives of the River Ratz, Pete Haley, Steve and Cindy Caron, explained to the Board that, though inconvenient because of HSA’s normal and previously scheduled events, and because of demand by the parents of our sailing youth, they would and must hold many of their events on Saturdays, but, they will change to other dates pursuant to other H.S. A. scheduled events.  Unfortunately, a motion was not made to confirm this discussion – probably because the proposed H.S.A. River Ratz proposal is in draft status.  The purchase by HSA of an Opti-Rack was confirmed. Pete Haley asked that HSA sell any unused equipment, Bill Field saying that it will not be the Hobies that get sold, as there have not only been past requests by members that we do keep at least a couple of them in working condition for use by Club Members, but that, indeed, they were being used and will continue to be used.. A new document, to these effects, will now be drawn up, edited, and copied to all.

 

Carol Long asked for clarification on time of day that the River Ratz would be using the facilities on Saturdays and it was thought probably 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.. Bill Field again encouraged members to attend the CPR classes offered also by the Red Cross. Ned Wolfarth stated that he is glad to co-ordinate this training for anyone interested in renewing their certification and for those who wish to take the class for the first time.

 

Lastly, Commodore Field welcomed Jeff Zipay as our new Webmaster, Jeff assuring the Board that our website will be undergoing a face-lift in the near future. The board appreciates Gary Smith’s continual work on the website and his coordination with Jeff to make the H.S.A. website a better entity. Jeff will obtain board approval of the revised logos, etc.  Discussion concluded that all items going onto the website would go first through Bill Field for approval.

 

Carolyn Long motioned that this meeting be adjourned. This was seconded by Roger Cutler. The meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m

.

Respectfully submitted,

 

Patricia Whitsitt, Secretary

17 March 2008

 

                                                    HALIFAX SAILING ASSOCIATION

                                                    GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

                                                                     MARCH 06, 2008

 Officer’s Present:

Bill Field, Roger Cutler, Sue Moni, Peter O’Brien, Carolyn Long

Christopher Likes, Jim Cunningham, Steve Caron, Gary Smith

Patricia Whitsitt

 

Officer’s Absent

Pat Adsit

 

Our Commodore, Bill Field, called this meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. After welcoming new members, Bill proceeded to read the highlights of the February minutes to the membership, including the opportunity available to all to attend CPR classes. A motion was then made by Bob Behnke and seconded by Jim Needham to accept these Minutes.

Under the heading of ‘Old Business’, the upcoming Thunder Mug, with the adoption of the US  Sailing Rules, was then discussed, including the cost of $25. Commodore Field stated that the race committee would be revised to include Pete Haley and our Commodore’s statement that no spinnakers and jib poles were to be used was rescinded.  Bill Field went on to raise the continuing subject of how the River Ratz will function within the Club. This discussion went on for quite a while without resolvement, unfortunately sending several members fleeing, but with the upside that all parties seem ready to move forward to a positive conclusion.

Plans for the upcoming Adult Sail Classes, which begin on March 29,  were brought up and are progressing smoothly, though more volunteers, especially those needed for the ‘chase boats’, were requested. Bill pointed out that members who volunteered for Sail Camp, which begins in June,  did not necessarily have to sign up for an entire week, but could volunteer as able, even if only to cover a day or two. Besides persons to man the chase boats, Opti-Moms are also solicited.

The Officer’s of the Board now made their separate reports/requests, beginning with our 1st Vice Commodore, Roger Cutler, asking that a ‘work party’ be formed, also for the upcoming Thunder Mug. Roger informed the Membership that the boats racing would be divided into three classes, that any sort of vessel, including the Sunfish, would be allowed, and finally that the Club would be providing a main entrée, with pot luck side-dishes being provided by members to round off the dinner which will follow the race.

Peter O’Brien took the floor next, supplying us with information on the switch to the new ID/Key system. He stated that this would require an upfront cost to the Club of about $1200., that the keys would originally be given outright to each Member of HSA, but then, if lost, individual members would replace their own at a cost of about $5. He verified that Members who already possessed the old ‘clickers’ would still have access to the premises that way, as well, and also that the new keys would remain effective until or unless that member’s dues became unpaid. Peter lastly shared with us that the Club now has 88 Regular Members and 27 Gold Members.

Ms. Carol Long, our Events Vice Commodore, began her report by thanking the Hortons for the wonderful donation of a refrigerator and BBQ. She also thanked Bob Behnke for the Shop-Vac that he gave to the Club. Carol then pointed out that the Adult Sail Classes were almost full so if anyone else wishes to be included they should sign up promptly. She also asked for a show of hands on whether the SOS should take place on Good Friday; it was decided to still hold this event, with individual members attending or not, as each preferred.  Carol went on to say that, though the recent weather had been pretty much making a wash-out of the Sunfish Racing on Tuesdays, as of now this remains a weekly scheduled event - still on Tuesdays, weather permitting..

The new pavers to improve our facilities have arrived and there was, at this time, discussion on how to expedite this project, with Terri Clark asking if we could include an outside shower.

Treasurer, Christopher Likes stood and informed the General Membership that the Board had approved a mandate that all purchases over $100. will have to first be submitted and approved by himself, or Commodore Field, and would be repaid in a timely fashion, not exceeding 10 days. He assured us that the books were reconciled, told us that the financial system in place has been modernized, and that all bills have been paid.

Sue Moni, Fleet Commodore, welcomed members to come and crew on her Pearson 30 in the upcoming Commodore Series run by HRYC, stating that she would like crew not exceeding 3/4 persons. She advised that for safety reasons all crew members in offshore races must have sailing experience and must be capable of a working crew position in the cockpit of the boat, i.e. either to work the mainsheet, one of the winches, or be on the helm. She said that these are competitive offshore races, not joy-rides or sailing lessons and asked that anyone interested please contact her.  It was also asked if mooring Commodore Smith out in the water vs. at the dock might be a good idea, thus enabling smaller boats to utilize the space, with varying opinions in response.

Pat Whitsitt reminded all of the importance of signing-in when at the Club for the benefit of our relationship with the City. She also asked if all Members were aware that we have an online Cyberstore, and it was pointed out that this has fallen by the wayside and is not being well-maintained. A little bit of TLC could make this another great HSA feature?

Terri Clark asked how the plans for the Skate Park were proceeding and the bottom-line on this is really that no one knows for sure, though it is critical that HSA maintains access to the boat ramp at the Park next door and also that, during any construction, Members will still have access to the Club facilities. This is to be checked on and reported back to the General Membership.

Pete Haley mentioned that the River Ratz were excited about their upcoming trip to Jensen Beach . About 5 or 6 of the Ratz will get to participate in this very fun event and all the Ratz are doing excellently in improving their skills.

The meeting wrapped up with Carol Long thanking Peter for all his efforts in making the New Member Orientation a beautiful and successful event for all! Way to go, Peter!!! The was motion to adjourn was made by Bob Benhke, seconded by Peter O’Brien.  The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

Respectively submitted,

Patricia Whitsitt                                                                                                                                                           

 

 

                          HALIFAX SAILING ASSOCIATION

                       GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

                                        February 07, 2008

 

 

Officers Present:

 

Bill Field

Roger Cutler

Sue Moni

Peter O’Brien

Carolyn Long

Christopher Likes

Patricia Whitsitt

 

Absent:

 

Pat Adsit

Jim Cunninghan

Steve Caron

Gary Smith

 

Old Business:

 

The Commodore, Bill Field, called the meeting to order at 7:05 p.m. He asked new members to introduce themselves and they were welcomed with a sincere round of applause. After Bill read the high-lights of the last General Meeting, a motion was made by Fred Boettcher and seconded by Bob Behnke to accept the minutes of that meeting, as posted.

 

Our Commodore said there would be no ‘race committee’ unless there were volunteers, and upon offering himself to head this committee, received the additional support of Peter O’Brien and Bill McFadden. Sue Moni had asked if the volunteers on this committee would still be able to participate in the race and it was explained that they could not. Bill said the races would basically follow the same format as last year and be about $25 each for entrants, and this fee would include food for the boat captain.

 

New Business:

 

The first order of new business was Commodore Field asking for volunteers, also, for the upcoming Adult Sailing Class. He told us that these classes would run for four successive weeks, beginning on Saturday, March 29th at 10:00 a.m. He received quick and enthusiastic support from many, including Jim Needham, Charlie Gear, Bob Duffus, Kevin Dammer, Sue Moni, Bill McFadden,  Carol Long, Ned Wolfarth, and Pat Whitsitt (Pat unable to attend the first session). Jim Needham told the recruits how teaching new sailors very much sharpens the skills of the ones teaching, making it a great learning experience for all parties involved.

 

Bill Field then asked if the Club was interested in purchasing an Interlake that was for sale for $2800. Sue Moni, the Vice-Fleet Commodore voted no to this, saying she thought there were too many neglected boats already on hand. Bill went on to explain that his reason for thinking it was a good idea for the Club to buy this boat was that it would allow for racing with the Interlake we already owned, there being no other boat in this category that could compete. Bill McFadden agreed with this perspective. Bill then asked for a show of hands, the result being 12 “ayes” and 9 “nays”. The result of this being that the Commodore has “tabled” the decision of the purchase of this boat for now, there being no particular “groundswell” of consent.

 

At this time, a member brought up the fact that he and other members often wished to sail but were prevented by their inability to get the boats into the water, asking how this situation could be eased. Bob Behnke asked if getting a “front-end loader”, maybe from the City, would work. Bill Field explained why that would not be ideal. It was also suggested that some moorings could possibly be dropped in order to keep additional boats in the water, but others said this would pose a hazard, especially to the students in the sailing classes. Jim Needham answered that both he and Bill Field are readily available to help get the boats in the water – just call them and they will gladly come and assist.

 

Roger Cutler then took a moment to sincerely thank the Thursday Guys for their many, many services to the Club, including the beautiful grounds-keeping. Our sincere appreciation goes out to all of you!

 

Sue Moni, Vice Fleet Commodore, reminded members and informed newcomers that of the 7 larger boats 5 of them are available for use and 2 need work. “Any help will be welcomed. There are many smaller boats that are being neglected and we would all be happy for anyone to take over any one of them, make it their project to fix it up, get them in the water, and sail them! Also, Ron Kainz had asked to be captain of the Interlake and he was granted that, so we have one new Captain added to our rostrum.”

 

 

Bill Field then called on Peter O’Brien, Membership Vice Commodore, to present his update. Peter said there are currently 104 paid members of Halifax Sailing Association – hurray! He also asked that everyone keep their email address current as some were still being returned unopened. New members are now receiving welcome packets sent out by Peter upon enrollment and this is a great addition, surely appreciated by the new members. Peter is hosting a New Member Orientation on Saturday, February 23rd, from noon to 3 p.m. There he will discuss the new system of entrance keys, which he is working on with Gary Smith.  The funding of which was approved by the Board and the actual estimate is pending.  Peter also presented the responses he received - only 26 out of the entire Club, but those that did respond gave a good over-all view of the state of affairs at this time, which Peter printed and passed out to the Members.  Most joined the club to sail.  Peter said he was not certain if the old “clickers” would still work for club access.  Jim Needham responded that he thought they would.

 

Jim Needham told us that the Sunfish Casual Races were to begin again on Tuesday,  February 12th , weather permitting. Start time  2:00 p.m. He next explained clearly how any member could “move up” from knowing how to sail a Sunfish, to learning how to sail a bigger boat. Jim is there to teach and is available when appropriate levels of proficiency are met, like how to maneuver a bigger boat away from and back to a dock, and to “check out” members so that they are qualified to skipper the bigger boats. “This is an option open to all”, he assured the group. The goal is for those big boats that the Club owns to get used! Bill Field made it clear that he is also available to do this – after morning tee time!

 

Our Events Vice Commodore, Carol Long, then asked Marguerite O’Brien, Roger Cutler, Estelle Lampert and Trish Reonas to stand. She informed the meeting that these people would make up part of the phone committee which has been instituted to call members with reminders of up-coming events.  If a member would prefer not to receive such calls, they need only to state such. Carol presented the dates for the Adult Sailing Class, the S.O.S. and mentioned there would be a monthly birthday cake and small gifts for those members who had a birthday within the month at Sessions on Sailing.  She requested volunteers for the Thunder Mug on April 13th.   Many volunteered to help.

 

Carol also told us that Lew Slaughter had emailed that there will he a Training Session on the 21st of February at HRYC to discuss how to run a water-race committee for the upcoming races at HRYC including the Commodore’s Cup Series. There will then be a Skipper’s Meeting for Race/Commodore’s Cup entrants on March 4th at 5:00 p.m. at HRYC. Sailors mark your calendars for opening of the season!

 

Treasurer Christopher Likes stood to say that money was coming into the Club, that the bills are being paid, and that there is money in the bank. Good job, Chris!!! He also took a moment to thank Peter O’Brien, on behalf of all of us, for the great job he is doing for the Club as the new Membership Vice Commodore.

 

 Ned Wolfarth inquired about dates for upcoming CPR training for sailors either taking or renewing their USSail Instructors License, which is required for certification. Deb Heaton informed us that her husband Paul is offering group instruction in CPR which will consist of a 5 hour  class for those taking the CPR class for the first time and a 2 ½  hour class for those renewing their certification.  Details and dates are pending.

 

There was then “Open Discussion”: Deb Heaton asked if we had any information yet on a Scuba Class being held at Daytona Beach College .  Carol said she has sent an email to Lynn at DBC.  To date, she has not received a response.  She will follow up with Deb Heaton and Lynn of DBC.

 

 Mike Stambersky chalked some diagrams of a of ‘dolly’ on the board, possibly another way  for getting boats into the water easier.

Bill Field asked members if they wanted a sailing “school” for the youth sailors or a sailing “camp”, and delineated the attributes of both, basically stating that there were different legalities involved. There was discussion about how to separate the different age groups that come for the Youth lessons, most believing it best to allow the older “kids” to attend the adult sail classes and suggesting that the class not try to be an “all-day affair”, though some thought this what most parents wanted, yet others thinking all-day to be the best thing for the children. I believe it was decided to keep it as a sailing “camp”, as has been the tradition at HSA.

 

Fred Boettcher called for a motion to adjourn -- the motion was seconded by Bob Behnke.

 

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

Patricia Whitsitt, Secretary H.S.A.

February 11, 2008

 

 

 

HALIFAX SAILING ASSOCIATION

BOARD MEETING MINUTES

JANUARY 14TH, 2008

Board Members Attending:

Commodore, Bill Field

1st Vice Commodore, Roger Cutler

Fleet Vice Commodore, Sue Moni

Membership Vice Commodore, Peter O’Brien

Events Vice Commodore, Carolyn Long

Treasurer, Christopher Likes

Secretary, Patricia Whitsitt

Past Commodore, Gary Smith

HRYC, Pat Adsit

Hobie Fleet, Steve Caron

 

Also Attending:

Jim Needham

Terri Clarke

 

Absent:

ERAU, Jim Cunningham

 

OLD BUSINESS:

Commodore Field called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m. He asked if all members had read the minutes of the last board meeting of December 17, 2007. A motion was made by ………….. and seconded by ………. to accept the minutes. All concurred.

NEW BUSINESS:

Bill Field quickly ascertained from Gary Smith that our internal e-mail system has now been working smoothly and that all repairs to the Carol Ann had been accomplished.

At this time, our Commodore asked who would like to head up the Race Committee. A discussion ensued, culminating in the understanding that the Events Committee would set up the races and tasks delegated at the next General Meeting. It was then determined that a “Notice of Race” and the “Rules of the Race” must be posted in a timely fashion and “Instructions of the Race” given for each race event. Pat Adsit stated that if the USSAILING rules were to be adopted they must strictly be adhered to. Pat offered to assist by writing up these USSAILING RULES and posting  “Notice”. It was also mentioned that these rules would put a stop to any possible arguments as written procedures of protest would be in place. Gary Smith then motioned that the USSAILING rules be adopted, this was seconded by Pat Adsit, and unanimously approved by all.

Roger Cutler then asked by what procedure the “big boats” were to be reserved. He pointed out that with so many new members, and with more and more people becoming “checked out” to Skipper the boats, conflicts may begin to arise. Jim Needham explained that it made the best sense to allow each “Boat Captain” to take responsibility for the reservations of the boat in their charge and that he expected the Captains to make certain that this was done in fairness to all, with no one person “hogging” all the time. Roger Cutler asked if the Captains have first priority and Jim Needham said that they do not. Terri Clarke asked where members could find the Boat Captain’s phone numbers and Sue Moni suggested we keep them posted at the Club at all times. Commodore Bill reminded us that only Jim Needham, Bill Eve, or himself, could “check out” members for use of these boats. It was also decided that if the person who had reserved a boat did not show up, or was more than a half hour late, anyone else could then take out this boat – first come, first served. (The Boat Captains should then call Gary Smith with the reservations and he would act as central keeper of these dates???)

Bill Field then told the board that each and every bill over $100 must be pre-approved. Terri Clarke pointed out that the rules, as written, said “per item”, which highlighted the problem thus arising when, for instance, a multiple number of same item were purchased. Peter O’Brien motioned that the wording be changed to say any “expenditure” instead of “item” and this was seconded by Sue Moni. Commodore Field stated that HSA must be protected from “outlandish” bills; Christopher Likes, our treasurer, agreed. He went on to say that “approved” bills would not pose any problem and that they would be reimbursed in a timely fashion. At this time, Pat Adsit made a motion that the rule would be that “any expenditure exceeding $100 must have board or Commodore approval, that all expenditure receipts must be turned in within 60 days to the Treasurer or to the Commodore, and that these would then be reimbursed within 10 days. (WAS THIS EVER SECONDED?) A question as to whether the Club or the River Ratz themselves would pay the $200 O.D.A. fee that allows the River Ratz to officially participate in sponsored regattas state-wide has been tabled for now, pending Carol.(????) Both Steve Caron and Terri Clarke have inquired whether or not the River Ratz could fundraise and/or accept donations while under the auspices of HSA; this question, too, will require further investigation, with Bill reminding them that the River Ratz were not a separate entity and Terri saying in response that that could be changed. Terri did specifically state that she would prefer not to have to account for all expenses made by the River Ratz. Whether, and to what extent, the Club is to back the River Ratz and what monies they can earn and take their own responsibility for is still being pondered. The motion made to table this discussion was made by Pat Adsit and seconded by Gary Smith, partly pending Pete Haley’s input. Bill Field also expressed concern about whether or not all of the children could afford this sort of adventure, requiring travel, overnights, fees, etc. and  Steve Caron answered that money on hand could be used to make up difference in that regard. Our Commodore expressed a sincere interest in hosting the young people’s regattas here at HSA.

Peter O’Brien gave an update on a new magnetic-swipe card that would allow entrance to the Club facilities, including the garage and the restrooms. It would also serve as an I.D. card with members wearing these around their necks, promoting acquaintance between our ever-growing membership, as well as a way of keeping track of people who may be on the premises that may not be paid members. Gary Smith is working to institute this system and says the cost will be about $2.50 per person paid upfront by the Club but then selling to members at $3/4. to cover lost cards, etc. He also explained that the entire card system could be hooked up to the computer if that was wanted, which many thought a good idea. The total cost is expected to be about $800 for the entire system. Peter O’Brien motioned to approve the new I.D. cards and this was seconded by Carolyn Long. There were none in opposition. Our Membership Vice Commodore went on to say that he was drafting a new Welcome Letter for future members-to-be and also….( ?????) At this point there was also discussion of whether keeping track of vehicles/owners by their car tags was called for as Jim Needham brought up that parking remained an ongoing problem, though each member was instructed not to block boats and other vehicles. Peter O’Brien…. Gold Members…????? David Robinson would take care of ??????? Peter told us, also, that he now has “Easy-Deposit Slips”, given him by Christopher Likes, the Treasurer, enabling him to easily deposit the checks he receives in the mail, i.e. membership renewals. He said only ??? he and Christopher Likes ???? have keys to the P.O. Box.

Carolyn Long, our Events Vice Commodore, passed around a “Mainsheet” with the logo that has been used in previous years and one with the 50th Anniversary logo that was used last year for the celebration of that event, asking members to choose which logo they would like to see used on the “Mainsheet” going forward. A vote was taken and the Mainsheet will revert to using its former Logo. Carol…………you can do this better Carol! Dates in the website, “ Safe Harbour ”??? Gary asked Carol what the date of the banquet would be…… (what banquet?) Carol proceeded to present the following dates on the HSA calendar: ??? and will include a complete calendar of events in the upcoming February issue of the Mainsheet.

Sailing class??? 7/12, 8/2, 9/6-13-20-27, etc.

The Youth Sailing Camp was discussed, with Commodore Field reiterating that plenty of adult supervision was mandatory. This camp will begin one week after school lets out, on…. Dates? Last year 4,000 flyers were handed out to public school students and the same will be done this year.

   

                                                HALIFAX SAILING ASSOCIATION

                                              GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING

                                                          JANUARY 03, 2008

 Officers Present:

Bill Field

Roger Cutler

Peter O’Brien

Carolyn Long

Christopher Likes

Patricia Whitsitt

Gary Smith

 

Absent:

Sue Moni

Pat Adsit

Jim Cunningham

Steve Caron

 

The Commodore, Bill Field, called the meeting to order at 19:02 .

He asked that the minutes from the December General Meeting be accepted as posted. A motion was made by Jim Needham and seconded by Lewis Slaughter to accept the minutes as posted. The members concurred. Bill then stated that all membership dues were to be paid by the 31st of January.

Mr. Field went on to a short discussion of the proper use of the official HSA website as far as e-mails were concerned, emphasizing that it was not to be used for arguments, etc.  He also explained that only people who were all ready members of HSA could be put onto the WAITING Gold Member List. He then noted that $350 to repair the Commodore Smith had been approved and the needed repairs accomplished.

Commodore Field asked that a ‘race committee’ be formed before the upcoming Thunder Mug Race. Jim Needham added that this ‘race committee’ should be used also for the Turkey Trot, but not for our other regular friendly free-for-all races. Bill Field said which races were to be under this new race committee could remain under discussion but must be set by April and that if Embry-Riddle wanted to do this, they were welcome to, but whoever did take on this responsibility must be knowledgeable.

Carolyn Long then took the floor and gave some dates and times of upcoming events, beginning with the next Adult Sailing Class which would start on the last Saturday in March, the 29th.

Other dates she presented were:

The Thunder Mug, projected to be May 14th.

Open House, May 17th.

Turkey Trot, November 1st, which is the last weekend before the end of Daylight Saving Time.

The Ratz will attend the Boomerang Regatta in Ft. Lauderdale on January 12th/13th.

General Meetings, to be the 1st Thursdays of every month at 7 p.m.

Big Boys Races to be each following Sunday at 1:00 p.m.

S.O.S. will be on January 25th.  Carol explained that the HOWL was changed to S.O.S. to make the event informative. The new S.O.S. will include a short presentation about sailing, after which the gathering would begin.

Commodore Field now took the opportunity to introduce the new board members, including:

   Roger Cutler, 1st Vice Commodore,

   Carolyn Long, Events Vice Commodore

   Peter O’Brien, Membership Vice Commodore

   Christopher Likes, Treasurer

   Patricia Whitsitt, Secretary

   Gary Smith, past commodore

The other new board members were absent.

Peter O’Brien next requested that each HSA member have a membership card. Bill Field would like these to be laminated, and because the Club has grown so large, to be printed with an easily identifiable name so members could know each other. Past Commodore, Gary Smith, stated that the same card could be used as a key of entry instead of using the present box codes. Jim Needham said this would cost each member about $3 to $4 and pointed out that this was a small cost that would have to be incurred by each member. Gary Smith stated that he would obtain an estimate.

Christopher Likes spoke about ways he was working to make the financial operations of the club more efficient. He said he had not met with the prior treasurer, Russ Brown, and had no access to the checking account. The signers on the account are Bill Field and Christopher Likes.

Bill Field asked if the tiller of the Carol Ann had been fixed yet and Jim Needham said that it was still being worked on and that it was questionable as to whether it would be ready by Sunday’s Big Boys Race. Bill Field also told the membership that a new ice chest was on its way, the other no longer serviceable.  At this time, Jim Needham went on to speak about the beginning of the next Sunfish Racing schedule and explained that the Sunfish Races were casual, not ‘hard-core’ racing, and that they would begin about 3 p.m. in the afternoon in mid-February. People may join in whenever they arrive according to work schedules, etc. Mr. Field also asked what had happened to the income from the previous Sunfish Races and this is to be checked on.

Bill McFadden, at this point, brought up continuing education for instructors. He relayed the information that a Level II instructor’s class was to be held in Miami and had a $200 fee. He offered further information for anyone interested.

Jim Needham shared with the attendees of this meeting that another sailor, Terri Clarke, was now checked out to use the big boats and that some of the kids had also accomplished their goals and were now ready and able to use the Capris.

Gary Smith offered a petition to be signed to have Manatee Park renamed  the Gaulden Reed Park and said anyone that would like to see this change take place should add their name to this petition.

Carol Long told the group that there was to be a Scuba Class at D.B.C.C. that any kids who were interested could attend and suggested that that was a good source for new enrollees to Sail Camp.

Bill Field went on to mention that we needed updated and current information on members. One member raised his hand and said that, though he had given his e-mail address three times to date, still he had never received an e-mail. Peter O’Brien will begin ‘spot-checking’ as he goes forward. Gary Smith enlightened us to the fact that we could all acquire our own e-mail address at Halifaxsailing.org! How cool is that??? Patty wants one, for sure! thinking it will be quite helpful as secretary.

At this time Bill McFadden moved to adjourn the meeting and this motion was seconded by Sheldon Skolfield.  The meeting adjourned at 1940.

Respectfully submitted,

Patricia Whitsitt, Secretary

January 4, 2008

 

 

We can be reached at 386- 238-SAIL (7245), info@HalifaxSailing.org, or contact Bill Field