The following is a summary of issues, determinations and information of interest to the Membership derived from proceedings at the annual Directors meeting that took place in Chicago on November 11, 2000. At least once a year the Board meets each November. The Board consists of representatives from each region. The attendees pay for their own transportation, lodging and meals.

• Current cash on hand is approximately $56,500.

REGATTA.

• Heard that Torch Lake, MI is ready to host the 2001 regatta and awarded the 2002 regatta to Mendota Yacht Club, Madison, WI.

• Decided to reduce the number of scheduled races at the Nationals to 6.

• Confirmed previous awards of National's Regatta sites for the next few years: 2001 Torch Lake, MI
  2002 Lake Mendota, Madison, WI
  

• Steve Andersen, of Keuka Lake, has assumed the role of publications chairman.

• Dierk Polzin will continue as web master.

• Melges Boat Works may produce an experimental boat with asymetrical spinnaker to be demonstrated at regional regattas. It will not officially compete.

• Melges Boat Works was encouraged to continue study of a more efficient rudder design as an experimental project to be tried significant number of boats this year. Melges feels it will not provide any speed advantage but does offer much better control of the boat, expecially in windier conditions.

• Confirmed there was no need to record sail measurers' certification numbers when you register for the National regatta. Also, boats with weight seal and certificate should no be weighed at regattas except on a spot check basis. Sails will be presumed to comply with measurement requirements and will only be spot checked at major regattas.

• Last year, there were 224 Regular Members and 283 Associate Members.

• Last year's membership poll results are attached.

• New boats will have scribe marks molded into the deck at the mast and forestay intersects where the black painted lines used to be.

• Torch Lake will donate a "Team Trophy" to the yacht club that fields the best 5 finishers at the Nationals. Additional criteria for the award are being drafted.

• National Regatta hosts will be required to assure there are adequate toilet facilities available for use on the water by female participants, where there will be any extended racing possibilities.

• Heard a suggestion that clubs or regions hold a junior championship regatta where each crew member, other than the skipper, must be 16 years old or younger.

Comments??? Ideas??? Contact the Commodore at zak@E-Scow.org