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Board Minutes
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING
OF LOOKOUT ROWING CLUB
Lookout Rowing Club Minutes
August 22, 2007 - Notes
In Attendance: Jim Crichton, Jenny Hetzler, Allison King, Karen Hundt, David Brodsky, Monte Schmiege, Henry Magnuson, Joe Harris (part-time)
Opening: Jim Crichton opened the meeting at approximately 5:15 pm in Boathouse.
Minutes: The minutes of the April, 2007 were read by Jim C. Motion to Approve by Karen Hundt, and Monte Schmiege seconded approval of the April meeting minutes. Jim will have them posted on the website now that they have been approved.
Treasurers Report: Monte Schmiege reported that this year we have revenue of $24,000; additional receivables of $9,400; operating expenditures of $17,600; a capital expenditure of $7,500 for the quad; and the second of two $9,000 rent payments to Chattanooga Rowing soon to be paid. The fiscal year runs from March 1 - February 28.
This year there are 72 family and individual memberships, and 16 summer memberships for a total of 88. There were 22 rowers who completed the learn to row classes; however only six of these 22 rowers became LRC members. This is significantly less than in years past. There was speculation as to why this has occurred. Karen Hundt and David Brodsky will serve on a committee to consider ways to retain more people who complete the learn to row classes.
Safety Committee Report: Joe Harris reported on the meeting that he had with Mark Kinsman to discuss issues of safety relating to LRC and CR. In summary, they have the following suggestions/observations:
1. Install a poster in a protective cover or frame affixed to the wall at the sign out table and on web site that includes information about:
-Traffic pattern diagram with instructions to follow it.
-Instructions to sign in and out.
-Emergency numbers.
-Use of a light on boats when visibility so requires.
-Warning not to row if lightning visible or thunder audible.
-Suggest that boat be examined before each row to verify heels tied down, bow ball affixed, bolts tight and no visible defects.
-Include USRowing poster.
2. Continue to integrate LRC Safety Rules into yearly application and require signed statement that rules have been read and that member agrees to follow them.
3. Training and Equipment:
-Continue to review curriculum with instructors to verify that it is being followed in each class.
-Require CPR course for all instructors/coaches.
-Continue to ensure that all new members understand the reasons for and the importance of all safety rules including traffic pattern, use of lights, avoiding T-Storms and other dangerous weather.
-Buy and install a first aid kit.
-Re-install a telephone extension downstairs.
-Consider acquiring a defibrillator.
-Limit use of launches to authorized people and require all such persons to demonstrate adequate knowledge of operation of boat and motor and safety requirements- life jackets for each occupant and a paddle. USRowing now suggests that coaches on others using a launch wear their life jackets. Coaches escorting shells must also carry sufficient life jacket for the rowers being escorted. Launches must use lights when visibility requires.
MOTION: Jim Crichton made a motion to agree to work with Chattanooga Rowing to implement the safety committee suggestions with the following clarifications:
The sign posted at the sign out desk should include the Boathouse physical address (it may be needed by someone calling for emergency medical assistance). Note: The boathouse address is 1001 Riverside Drive.
The safety rules should be published and posted on the website for all members to read and understand.
The safety rules should be part of the learn to row curriculum.
The act of qualifying launch operators needs more consideration. LRC suggests that CR should take the lead on this item since their launch use is much more frequent.
Improving response time from EMT's by better telephone access downstairs and promoting knowledge of the physical address was thought to be an effective way to protect against a cardiac event. The purchase and maintenance of a defibrillator and associated training should be left to professionals in the health care business.
Karen Hundt seconded, and motion was unanimously approved.
New Equipment Report: Jim Crichton reminded the directors that the bylaws define three categories of members. The category specifies which equipment the member has access to. This policy is more important now that LRC has taken delivery of the new quad (4X). Jim Crichton and Jenny Hetzler agreed to identify the category `B' and category `C' equipment, understanding that everything else would be category `A'.
Jim Crichton anticipates that many people will want to train and race in the new 4X. For this reason, he plans to ask the membership who intends to use the boat this fall. From the list of interested rowers, Jim will verify they are category `C' members first, then create a schedule for training, and a schedule for racing in the Head Races. A criteria for deciding who can use the boat if conflicting schedules occur will most likely be needed.
Board of Directors Membership Report: Directors retiring soon include:
David Brodsky Feb., 2008
Jim Crichton Feb., 2008
Pat Keegan Sept., 2007
Allison King Sept., 2007
Karen Hundt Sept., 2007
Jim will ask those retiring in September to serve a few more months so that directors can be elected by the membership at the annual meeting as required by the LRC bylaws. Allison and Karen were present and were willing to comply.
MOTION: David Brodsky motioned that a nominating committee consisting of Henry Magnuson, Ann Cater, and Justin Wilkins be formed to recommend potential directors and officers to the LRC membership at the annual meeting. This committee should identify three potential new board members so that 1/3 of the board is replaced annually. Jim Crichton seconded, and the motion was approved unanimously.
MOTION: David Brodsky motioned that a committee consisting of Jim and himself be formed to clarify the roles of officers and directors. Karen seconded, and the motion was approved unanimously.
Recruitment Proposal: Justin Wilkins, who was unable to attend the meeting, brought forth a proposal (via email) to offer “fast-track” (7 hours) of sculling classes to experienced sweep rowers for $25. After much discussion, the directors thought it best to require membership before offering such a class. Also, Jim thought that the training committee should be consulted to see if all of LRC's curriculum could be covered in that time before agreeing to such a plan.
Name for the new 4X: Some discussion was held on the best name for the new 4X boat. David Brodsky offered to investigate businesses who might donate their name to the boat for a fee. Until David completes his investigation, the 4X will be nameless.
David B moved to adjourn. Seconded and approved.
Respectfully Submitted,
Henry Magnuson (for Ann Cater - secretary)
Lookout Rowing Club
Lookout Rowing Club Minutes
April 8, 2006
In Attendance: Jim Crichton, Jenny Hetzler, Megan Cooke, Pat Keegan, Justin Wilkins, Ann Cater, Allison King, Karen Hundt, David Brodsky, Monte Schmege, Steve Krug.
Opening: Jim C. opened the meeting @ approximately 9:30 am in Boathouse.
Reports:
Megan Cook, Rowing Director, gave a report on programs for `06.
Discussion: Pat K suggested that the boats need to be better organized, i.e., either color-coded; numbered racks, etc. to better manage their usage…He suggested novices be restricted to the older, more used boats and permit the usage of the newer boats to more experienced rowers in order to minimize damage and thus preserve their life…suggested someone who is around the boats frequently would be the most obvious choice for `boat management'.
Megan Cook gave a report on the status of oars….she received no response from her attempt to purchase used oars…therefore, LRC will need to purchase oars….Steve K said that Concept II have `bleems' which could be purchased at reduced cost. LRC has budged $1000 for new oars….Megan will purchase 4 pair at a cost of $350/new or $240-`bleems'….
Minutes: The minutes of the Annual meeting on 2/18/06 were read by Jim C. Motion to Approve by Jenny Hetezler. Discussion: Karen H asked if members had been notified yet about e-mail notification…. Steve K suggested a membership chairman be appointed to up-date addresses and inform all members of e-mail notification…Justin agreed to send post-cards to all members if he could be supplied with mailing addresses of members.
Minutes were seconded and approved.
Treasurers Report: Steve K informed that LRC is 22% better off than the same time last year…Balance of $50,635….($9200 in savings….$5000 for Head Race). The cost to run LRS is approximately $23,000 annually. $16,500 to Jack; $4,500 fees to US Rowing….with insurance fees, etc. making up the remainder. In the past the membership dues have off-set the operation costs. To date (4/8/06) LRC has 20 paid memberships; 3 lifetime for a total of 23. Steve reported that Megan Cook has requested that her membership dues become part of her compensation package. Pat K suggested a revised job description to give Megan access to the facilities rather than free membership. Allison K expressed concern that LRC is establishing a precedent for `free membership'. Steve K stated that her contract had been carefully crafted with Mark K's input when the Rowing Director's position was established in '05.
MOTION: Jim C made a motion to accept the Rowing Director's Contract for 2006 to state: will work for 400 hours @ $15/hr…with access to the equipment and facilities for personal use and other requirements, as outlined in the contract. Pat K seconded…unanimously accepted.
MOTION: Justin W made a motion to approve the proposal to establish a bank draft for Annual Membership dues for individual, family and youth.
Discussion: Jim C questioned changing from First Tennessee to Gateway Bank in Rossville as well the cost of a bookkeeper @ around $2000 for EFT privileges. Steve K expressed concern over the `hard cost'….i.e., a payment plan does not help with hard cost….it creates a cash-flow problem by not having enough money up front to cover expenses….Regarding the cost of a bookkeeper-once the data base is built, the process is easier, so the hourly fees would possibly be reduced. Pat K said that on the plus side---you don't have to write a big check….David B suggested that this plan be offered to new members only. Allison K felt all members should be included. Jim C suggested that for those 25 and under, we offer a payment plan….believe that the dues are a bargain.…After discussion it was decided that Steve K and Justin W negotiate with First Tennessee to lower bookkeeper fees associated with the EFT and try to maintain LRC's long-standing relationship with First Tennessee, rather than switch banks.
MOTION: Jim C made an Amended Motion that states: (1). LRC will adopt the EFT system for ALL members with First Tennessee at a cost not significantly higher than Gateway Bank. (2) The financial operation of the club be managed by the treasurer with a bookkeeper at an expense not to exceed $2400 annually. (3). The EFT will be offered on a 1-year trial basis, with the `year-end' being the last board meeting of 2006.
Allison King seconded. Unanimously accepted.
MOTION: Jim C made the motion that provided the EFT process is adopted, LRC eliminate the lower-fee rate for those 25 and under. The fee rate would be: Individual- $350 one-time payment or $30/mo EFT. Family-$500 one-time or $45/mo EFT.
Karen H seconded. Unanimously approved.
Committee Appointments: Jim C made the motion that Megan Cook be made chairman of the Training committee. Karen H seconded. Unanimously approved.
Discussion: Jim C will ask outside the board for Chairman of the Safety Committee.
David B moved to adjourn. Seconded and approved
Respectfully Submitted: Ann Cater, secretary
April 8, 2006
In Attendance: Jim Crichton, Jenny Hetzler, Megan Cooke, Pat Keegan, Justin Wilkins, Ann Cater, Allison King, Karen Hundt, David Brodsky, Monte Schmiege, Steve Krug.
Opening: Jim C. opened the meeting @ approximately 9:30 am in Boathouse.
Reports:
Megan Cook, Rowing Director, gave a report on programs for `06.
Discussion: Pat K suggested that the boats need to be better organized, i.e., either color-coded; numbered racks, etc. to better manage their usage…He suggested novices be restricted to the older, more used boats and permit the usage of the newer boats to more experienced rowers in order to minimize damage and thus preserve their life…suggested someone who is around the boats frequently would be the most obvious choice for `boat management'.
Megan Cook gave a report on the status of oars….she received no response from her attempt to purchase used oars…therefore, LRC will need to purchase oars….Steve K said that Concept II have `bleems' which could be purchased at reduced cost. LRC has budged $1000 for new oars….Megan will purchase 4 pair at a cost of $350/new or $240-`bleems'….
Minutes: The minutes of the Annual meeting on 2/18/06 were read by Jim C. Motion to Approve by Jenny Hetezler. Discussion: Karen H asked if members had been notified yet about e-mail notification…. Steve K suggested a membership chairman be appointed to up-date addresses and inform all members of e-mail notification…Justin agreed to send post-cards to all members if he could be supplied with mailing addresses of members.
Minutes were seconded and approved.
Treasurers Report: Steve K informed that LRC is 22% better off than the same time last year. A treasury report is on file.
MOTION: Jim C made a motion to accept the Rowing Director's Contract for 2006 to state: will work for 400 hours @ an agreed hourly rate with access to the equipment and facilities for personal use and other requirements, as outlined in the contract. Pat K seconded…unanimously accepted.
MOTION: Justin W made a motion to approve the proposal to establish a bank draft for Annual Membership dues for individual, family and youth.
Discussion: Jim C questioned changing from First Tennessee to Gateway Bank in Rossville as well the cost of a bookkeeper @ around $2000 for EFT privileges. Steve K expressed concern over the `hard cost'….i.e., a payment plan does not help with hard cost….it creates a cash-flow problem by not having enough money up front to cover expenses….Regarding the cost of a bookkeeper-once the data base is built, the process is easier, so the hourly fees would possibly be reduced. Pat K said that on the plus side---you don't have to write a big check….David B suggested that this plan be offered to new members only. Allison K felt all members should be included. After discussion it was decided that Steve K and Justin W negotiate with First Tennessee to lower bookkeeper fees associated with the EFT and try to maintain LRC's long-standing relationship with First Tennessee, rather than switch banks.
MOTION: Jim C made an Amended Motion that states: (1). LRC will adopt the EFT system for ALL members with First Tennessee at a cost not significantly higher than Gateway Bank. (2) The financial operation of the club be managed by the treasurer with a bookkeeper, if required, at an expense not to exceed $2400 annually. (3). The EFT will be offered on a 1-year trial basis, with the `year-end' being the last board meeting of 2006.
Allison King seconded. Unanimously accepted.
MOTION: Jim C made the motion that provided the EFT process is adopted, LRC eliminate the lower-fee rate for those 25 and under. The fee rate would be: Individual- $350 one-time payment or $30/mo EFT. Family-$500 one-time or $45/mo EFT.
Karen H seconded. Unanimously approved.
(Note: Although this motion was approved if requires Membership approval)
Committee Appointments: Jim C made the motion that Megan Cook be made chairman of the Training committee. Karen H seconded. Unanimously approved.
Discussion: Jim C will ask outside the board for Chairman of the Safety Committee.
David B moved to adjourn. Seconded and approved
Respectfully Submitted: Ann Cater, secretary
Lookout Rowing Club
Annual Meeting
February 18, 2006
In Attendance: Jim Crichton, Montie Schmiege, Doug BeVille, Sarah Robbins, Karen Hundt, Henry Magnuson, Allison King, David Brodsky, Jerry Bearden, Megan Cooke, Laura Rose, Cheryl Capps, Jim Ledbetter, Mary Bricker-Jenkins, Ann Cater, Peter Ewing, Joe Harris, Justin Wilkins, Glenn Mosher
Jim Crichton opened the meeting with introductions. The minutes from the last board meeting were read.
MOTION: To accept the minutes as presented. Seconded. Approved.
Allison King asked that it be noted that she was asked at the last board meeting to resign as a board member.
Change in Bi-Laws
MOTION: To accept “mail” in the bi-laws as “e-mail, website and posted at the boathouse.” Seconded. Unanimously approved.
Karen Hundt suggested we send out one mailing to inform the club we are officially using e-mail, the website and postings at the boathouse for all future communication. Megan Cooke suggested we designate a specific place at the boathouse.
State of LRC, 2005
Jim Crichton, President, presented the State of LRC, 2005. ( available upon request).
New LRC Board Members
Proposed new members are: Ann Cater, Monty Sneed and Jenny Hetzler.
Justin Wilkins expressed an interest in serving on the Board.
MOTION: To nominate Ann Cater, Monty Sneed, Jenny Hetzler and Justin Wilkins. Seconded. Unanimously approved.
MOTION: To nominate Dave Brodsky as Vice President and Ann Cater as Secretary. Seconded. Unanimously approved.
Recognition - THE OAR AWARD
Recipients of this year's prestigious award include: Doug BeVille, Justin Wilkins, Megan Cooke, Christine Buschbacher, Mike Bitterman. Special recognition goes to Peter Ewing for graciously fixing holes at the Boathouse and Ann Cater for preparing breakfast for the Annual Meeting.
Open Discussion
As the Club grows, where do we fit people and boats? The hope is that active versus non-active members will not overlap - cross that bridge when we get to it.The new boat is currently in Jim Crichton's garage. As the weather improves, Jim will have slight repairs made to the boat. Opening day, the new boat will be available. The membership form does not easily download from the website. Jim will talk to Christine about posting clear directions. Membership forms will also be posted at the Boathouse.We will have to work through the Market street bridge closing in terms of the Chattanooga Headrace and Hooch.TWRA has denied initial request for 100 new docks on South Chickamauga Creek. The developer has appealed the decision.The process has begun to make the downtown area a no-wake zone.Equipment usage continues to be an issue. UTC will continue to call Lookout Rowing in advance for boat usage requests. The Board needs to continue to look at equipment utilization. Bi-laws need to be “mailed” to all members. Possibly a reservation system could be implemented? More beginners mean more boat repairs. The signage on the boats needs to be more specific, and it needs to be specified what to do if one damages a boat.
Boathouse needs work. Even though we are tenants, building needs help - in particular, the ceiling tiles in the women's bathroom and the wall outside.
CLEANING DAY IS APRIL 15th. Note: Later the date was changed to March 18th
OPENING DAY IS APRIL 22nd. Note: Later the date was changed to March 25th.
Respectfully submitted,
Sarah Robbins
January 21, 2006
Present: Jim Crichton, Allison King, Megan Cooke, Christine Buschbacher (non Board Member), Mark Kinsman (non Board Member), Steve Krug, John Zelle, David Brodsky
MOTION: To add to today's agenda: Date for Annual Meeting and Megan Cooke's work hours. Seconded. Approved.
MOTION: To accept the minutes from August 23, 2005. Seconded.
Discussion: Allison King asked for a follow-up of the Financial Comm. Report.
MOTION APPROVED
Financial Report
The Club has exceeded financial goals for the year.
Club Membership increased from 65 members in 2204 to 101 members in 2005. Out of 36 people in classes, 34 joined the Club.
The full detailed financial report is on file
MOTION: To accept the Financial Report as presented. Seconded. All in favor.
Fee Structure Update
With year-end numbers in hand, it is time to again look at our fee structure. It was discussed that $350 per year is a bargain compared to other local athletic clubs. LRC currently accepts payments in two parts. To accept monthly payments would put too much strain on the Treasurer. It was agreed a bookkeeper is well worth looking into for consistency and flexibility of payments. After much discussion, it was agreed another year of numbers in necessary to determine membership trends.
MOTION: To put out a Request for Proposal (RFP) for a Bookkeeper. Seconded.
Discussion: The Club hopes to receive 2-3 proposals, and Steve Krug reluctantly agreed to head up the search. The current club membership will be searched in hopes of finding a connection to a bookkeeper.
MOTION PASSED UNANIMOUSLY
MOTION: To leave as is the membership fees for 2006. Seconded. Approved.
Equipment needs/ disposition of Headrace funds
The Treasurer is comfortable with the Club spending for equipment the already approved $10K from the Aug. 23rd budget amount of $15K. ($5K has already been spent)
Equipment needs discussed: Oars, quad, heavy weight double, singles, ergs for City.
It was agreed equipment needs should support growing Club membership. Also, donations to outside organizations should be a second priority. Megan Cooke volunteers to poll the membership looking for willing sellers of used oars.
We have one “fair” double and need singles. The Club also needs to consider storage space. Some boats need to be moved or scrapped. Due to space and racing, it was felt a double would be best, however the singles are used more on a daily basis. Megan's 1st individual sculling class is full!
It was agreed that the Club should not buy one or two ergs. It would put too much strain on the new equipment, thus we should wait until we can afford to replace them all.
Potential recipients of donations include: Chattanooga Rowing, UTC Rowing, and the City's Recreational Dept. A donation to the City would be a great way to show our appreciation and to promote a continuing positive relationship.
It was discussed that if we could buy two ergs from UTC, UTC would benefit from the money, and we could in turn donate the ergs to the City. A win-win.
MOTION: To allow Megan Cooke to lead process to obtain 3-5 sets of used oars looking first to Club membership. Prices will be agreed to with President's approval. Seconded. Passed unanimously.
MOTION: To buy two new Peinert singles at Club Rate not to exceed $4000 (including shipping) per boat. Seconded. Passed Unanimously.
MOTION: To approach UTC Rowing with up to $1500 in hand hoping to buy two used ergs in reasonable condition that we could donate to the City. Seconded. Approved.
MOTION: To change the approved equipment budget amount from the Aug. 23rd, 2005 minutes from $15000 to $16000. Seconded. Approved.
Recognition Event
Winter is a great time to get members together to promote membership retention. The President will work on an event along with Ann Cater and Karen Hundt not to exceed $500. The PROPOSED DATE IS FEB. 18.
Megan Cooke's Hours
Meghan has worked 308 hours, 8 more than her contracted 300 hours.
MOTION: To change Megan Cooke's approved hours from 308 to 400. Seconded. Approved.
NEW BUSINESS
Allison King raised a number of issues relative to Board Governance, specifically:
Inability to use boats in the winter months due to storage
Movement of the 2005 Annual Membership meeting from October/November to February
Board Correspondence by e-mail
The issues were discussed by the Board and the detail notes are on file. The Board did elect to change the by-laws to make it clear that e-mail was an official and appropriate communication process for the LRC Board. This change in by-laws will require approval by the membership attending the annual meeting.
MOTION: To change the by-laws throughout the document to substitute the word “e-mail” for the word “mail” as the accepted method of communication. Seconded.
Discussion: Due to today's time-contraints, a Board member must take the initiative to get timely information. Working in traditional paper mail systems will cause the speed of the Board's actions to be drastically slowed. To be a healthy club, we must communicate via e-mail.
MOTION PASSED.
Meeting was adjourned at 12:30PM.
Submitted by Sarah Robbins, Secretary
February 19, 2005
The annual meeting of the Lookout Rowing Club was held at the William G. Raoul Boathouse on February 19, 2005. Board members present included Jim Crichton, Megan Hannewald-Cook, Karen Hundt, John Zelle, Allison King, Steve Krug and Pat Keegan. The meeting was called to order by President Jim Crichton. The minutes from November 15, 2004, were read and upon motion made and seconded, were approved by the Board with no changes.
Next, Steve Krug, the treasurer, presented his report. The funds on hand amount to $24,000 net of expenses. Mr. Krug has budgeted $22,000 for next year's expenses. He estimates income from dues at $19,000 plus approximately $4,000 to be generated from head race entries for a total of $22,000. There is also $9,000 in the savings account and $5,000 in the head race account. After various questions and answers regarding the above, Mr. Krug summarized that net cash total at $38,000. Mr. Crichton pointed out that the head race income is probably underestimated and that we are not certain of the exact amount to be paid to Chattanooga Rowing. We estimate that amount at $16,500. Doug Beville suggested exploring a longer term agreement with Chattanooga Rowing for planning purposes. Thereafter, upon motion made and seconded, the treasurer's report was approved by the Board of Directors.
Next, Doug Beville presented his report concerning the status of the head race. Rob Healy of Chattanooga Outdoors is very interested in rowing and mentions the head race at every opportunity during the course of his duties with Chattanooga Outdoors. The purpose of Chattanooga Outdoors is to promote outdoor activity and focus on activities unique to Chattanooga. Chattanooga Outdoors has agreed to buy 120 feet of dock to use at Ross's Landing for the Head Race. In addition, a 50-foot transitional ramp will be purchased. The total cost is approximately $60,000. Doug Beville plans to meet with Chattanooga Outdoors next week to finalize the dock order. Steve Krug asked whether we could use the dock at the boathouse when not in use for the head race. Doug Beville responded that this is a Chattanooga Rowing issue.
Next, Mr. Beville discussed fundraising for the head race. The overall response has been very good. A package has been compiled for distribution to potential donors. A copy of that was provided to the board members. Mr. Beville discussed the different levels of sponsorship, including bronze, silver, gold and platinum. A printout showing the level of contributions and pledges to date was presented. Two radio stations. KZ106 and GT108 have agreed to promote the race. Olive Garden is considering the possibility of catering, without charge, a pasta party on Friday night before the race. Other alternative caterers are also possible. Mr. Beville anticipates having a VIP tent which would be staffed by LRC members. A brochure describing the new aspects of the head race has been developed and will be mailed to all colleges and high schools. We hope to draw many additional schools because of the ease of parking, the extent of the lay down area and the availability of lodging and food, all in one place. Mr. Beville is exploring with the Sports Barn the possibility of making shower facilities available for all participants after the race.
Next, Mr. Beville discussed the head race program. The course will be outlined, and rowing and equipment will be explained as well as the history of the Lookout Rowing Club. He anticipates selling ads for $400 per page, $200 per half page, $120 per quarter page and $75 for a business card ad. Mr. Beville suggested that the entities selling each ad be paid a commission of 40 percent. This was previously offered to the Chattanooga Junior Rowing Club; however, they were not interested. A suggestion was made to make that offer to UTC. Jim Crichton volunteered to check with Jack Fish again to find out whether the juniors want to participate in that program before making the offer to UTC Rowing.
There appears to be much interest by the city of Chattanooga in promoting rowing in the community. There is discussion and movement toward establishing a no wake zone from Ross's Landing to the Boathouse.
In response to this report, President Jim Crichton expressed the club's appreciation for the hard work of Doug Beville, Justin Wilkins and Sarah Robbins in these matters. All present agreed with that expression of appreciation.
Next, John Zelle presented a report concerning his work on the equipment committee. He suggested that we repair the equipment we have. He has cannibalized all of the boats and equipment that he can, and additional seats, riggers, foot stretchers and shoes must be purchased to make some of the boats rowable. He suggested a fund of $1,000 be allocated to make the boats we have rowable. A lengthy discussion followed concerning the condition of various boats and which boats warrant repair. Thereafter, a motion was made to purchase such equipment and supplies necessary to make all of the Peinerts and doubles rowable with the exception of Vespoli number 23 with the blue deck. That boat will be evaluated further before any funds are spent on it. The motion included a cap of $1,000. John Zelle will ask the Board for more funds if needed. After discussion, the motion was unanimously adopted by the Board.
Next, there was lengthy discussion concerning the possibility of obtaining a 4+. A suggestion was made to lease a 4+ with oars and a cox box from either UTC or the juniors. After further discussion, a motion was made to approach the Chattanooga Juniors and UTC concerning the possibility of leasing a 4+ with oars and cox box for the summer. That motion was seconded and approved by the Board.
Next, Karen Hundt made a presentation concerning opening day at Ross's Landing. This is an event scheduled by the City to celebrate the opening of the construction at Ross's Landing and on the other side of the river at Coolidge Park. Events are scheduled over a number of days. A copy of a description of the activities is attached hereto. On Saturday, May 14, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., an event is planned for a parade of rowing shells past Ross's Landing. The City is hoping that as many crews as possible will be on the water at that time. Unfortunately, the high schools and UTC are not available because they are planning to attend races in other cities at that time.
President Jim Crichton asked whether anyone present would be willing to organize the Lookout Rowing Club members for the opening day event. John Zelle and Karen Hundt agreed to do so. A suggestion was made that UTC might allow LRC to borrow a boat for the event. John Zelle suggested contacting Oak Ridge, Atlanta, Gainesville and Huntsville Rowing Clubs about attending. Jim Crichton agreed to contact them.
Next, Jim Crichton discussed opening day for Lookout Rowing Club. He suggested April 30, 2005. There was a general consensus that the date should be moved to April 16, 2005. After further discussion, a motion was made, seconded and approved by the Board that opening day be set fro April 16, 2005.
Next, Jim Crichton discussed sculling classes. Four people who were scheduled to take classes last fall would like to do so this spring. Those classes were cancelled due to the weather. Steve Krug suggested tying the first class to Learn-to-Row Day. It was pointed out that there are logistical problems associated with that. There was further discussion about retention of members. Karen Hundt suggested a mentor program. Steve Krug suggested a sweep program might attract and keep more members. Diane Dickerson pointed out that we would need to have boats available. Doug Beville referred back to the planning meeting that occurred approximately a year ago. At that time, the club indicated that they wanted a coach to supervise activities. It was suggested that perhaps with funds raised from the head race, we will be able to do that. Jim Crichton suggested beginning the process of moving toward more sweep rowing in the club. We will try to work on those details at a later date.
Jim Crichton made a motion that the LRC sculling classes incorporate more sweep rowing and try to get equipment to support sweep rowing. After discussion, that motion was seconded and approved.
Next, Jim Crichton discussed Learn-to-Row Day. Jim Crichton will take the lead on that. It is the third weekend in May. He will explore grant opportunities to fund Learn-to-Row Day.
Next, Jim Crichton called for open discussion about any other matters not on the agenda. Pat Keegan stated that he is still fuzzy on the relationship with UTC. Why does UTC use Lookout Rowing Club equipment? Jim Crichton pointed out that that relationship developed over years. Perhaps, there would be an opportunity to trade use of equipment. For example, LRC could agree to continue to allow UTC to use its sculling equipment in return for the use of a 4+. There was further discussion concerning use of equipment by third parties. A motion was made that all requests for the use of LRC equipment by third parties must be approved by the Board. That motion was seconded and approved by the Board. Thereafter, the meeting was adjourned.
________________________
Mark Kinsman, Secretary
Approved:
________________________
Jim Crichton, President
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