AT THE MEMBERSHIP MEETING

February 15, 2005

By Jim Smith

Commodore, Paul Olsen called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM
Commodore asked new members and guests to introduce themselves. Ron Moorman introduced himself. He became aware of the club last summer.
Commodore announced that the Spina Bifida Association of America will hold their 32nd annual conference in Minneapolis from June 26th through June 29th. The club has been requested to put on a "mini" Parade of Boats for the conventioneers on Tuesday evening, June 28th. From 6:00 pm until about 8:00 pm. A show of hands indicated that almost all in attendance endorsed the activity. Paul will ask Tom Shirley if we can reserve the Centrum building, or part thereof for the display.
At the January meeting, members were asked to think about the possibility of some type of contest: e. g. , "best in show", "spectator’s favorite", "prettiest", etc. Jim Smith, Jack Gilbertson, Bob Larson and John Bishop volunteered to come up with an award plan of some kind for the Parade of Boats (June 12th).

Fred Ferris records frequences for the Parade of Boats.

Commodore announced that the club’s annual Sailboat Tune-up is scheduled for Saturday, April 30th from 10:00 am until 1:00 pm. We’ll try for the Centrum building but, if it’s rented, the garage band room will be used.
Tim Small-ey mentioned that we will have a representative from the "Klass Kote" epoxy paint system give a presentation at the March meeting. The line is available at Hub Hobby. Information on this local product can be found on the web at < www. klasskote. com >
Tim also mentioned that the 2005 Midwestern Model Ships & Boats Contest and Display at Manitowoc, WI is slated for May 20th – 22nd…not August as in previous years. Entry form and additional information are on the web at
Tim’s model of the Civil War "Alligator Junior" submarine was written up in the February 7th edition of the Philadelphia Inquirer. The boat is currently on display at the Independence Seaport Museum at Penn’s landing in Philadelphia.
Paul mentioned that Jose Medina, one of our Iowa members, sent along an extra $60 donation to the club with his 2005 dues. Thank you, Jose!
Commodore apologized for neglecting to bring the 12 volt power source donated last month by Don Sektnan. It will be raffled off at the March meeting.
The subject of the club website was brought up again. It seems that our webmaster is swamped with work and family commitments and we need someone with a bit of expertise to get the ball rolling and at least get the calendar up to date for the new season.
Dave Bros asked if the sailing group or fast electric group were expecting to request funding for any 2005 events. There was no response, either positive or negative. Commodore stated that any and all funds taken in by the various interest groups must be deposited into the club treasury. In that way, we will have a paper trail to keep us aware of income from, and costs of events.
The proposed expansion and updating of the area bordered by France and York Avenues between 66th Street and Interstate 494 area was discussed. It was not considered to be an imminent problem to the club.
Meeting adjourned 7:35 PM

Paul Olsen shows his latest model.

Show-’n-Tell: Paul Olsen gave a 35 minute presentation on his scratch built, steam powered, six foot, "Streetcar Boat. " Modeled after the "Minnehaha" which was raised from the depths of Lake Minnetonka after a 50 year submersion, Paul hopes to have his replica ready for the Parade of Boats.

Don Sektnan showing his "Bouncy II".

Don Sektnan showed his "Bouncy II" from antique Mechanix Illustrated plans. This "in bones" boat is being built " on the cheap" according to Don. Hollow door skins, cast off thin aircraft plywood, Axman motor, etc. all are incorporated.
—Jim Smith