Sailor Athlete Advisory Council Conference Call Minutes

7/30/02  - Approved by majority vote

1. L. Parks, L. Gleason, M. Reynolds, N. Roberts, B. Merrick

2. Nel Roberts, Director of Member Services, gave a brief overview of her research regarding member/non-member perceptions of US SAILING. Elite, competitive racing gives US SAILING "credibility" as the national governing body of the sport. Confusion among members as to the purpose of US SAILING and value of membership in the organization is a significant issue among members, elapsed members and non-members.

Some suggestions for improving our web page include: Adding bios for each committee member with a picture to add a more personal touch. Make the Page easier to find and navigate. Links to ISAF Athlete Bios.

Nel also invited all the members of the SAAC to write brief Bio's including why they are members of US SAILING. It may also benefit the purpose of this council if you also included a statement of why you are giving back to the association by being a member of the SAAC.

3. US SAILING Bylaw Changes regarding the SAAC have been submitted to Ted Everingham, Chairman of the Bylaws committee for review.

4. SAAC Chair to be named as ex officio member of US SAILING Ex Com

5. Elections will be held in September 2002. A mock election will be held in the beginning of August to test the software. Further instructions will be distributed to SAAC members. Please, be creative and truly test the system with unusual situations so that we may detect any problems early!

Dean Brenner is finalizing another press release regarding the council and the election to be distributed this month (August).

Lee Parks will contact Patty Lawrence to help get the word out through the One Design Council.

6. US SAILING Annual General Meeting, Marina del Rey, CA., October 16 - 20.                               SAAC meeting Saturday, October 19, 2002

Please, plan on attending via conference call, if you are unable to attend in person. This will be the last official meeting of this SAAC!

7. There was no old business or new business.

9. Adjourn 9:44pm