Sycamore Island
Meeting Minutes


October 11, 1995


Warren Brown called the meeting to order, then introduced Robert Melton of The Washington Post who may write a feature article about Sycamore Island.

Members present were: Warren Brown, Les Nicholson, Laureen Nicholson, Johnna Robinson, Bill Eichbaum, John S. Thompson, Peter Jones, Brad Coolidge, Peter Winkler and Philip Jones.

REPORTS:
Johnna reported the Island is "in good shape" financially, even though postage had proven to be more expensive than expected. She has also paid the taxes and investigated fire insurance for the clubhouse. Phil reported that because of increased application and guest fees, the club budget has $4000 more than projected last year. Peter will advise those on the waiting list, who have not paid the annual maintenance fee, that they will be dropped from the list of 120 names. Bill will chair the nominating committee, which Includes Warren and Peter, for the 1996 Slate of Officers.

NEW BUSINESS:
Laureen Nicholson posed a question concerning member's children, who have "grown up on Sycamore Island" and who want to continue their association with the Island after they move out of the family home. She suggested the club adopt a different process for membership for those "grown up children," as many clubs have, since they can only continue their use of the island, as it stands now, in the company of their parents.

John was concerned about his "senior membership's" limitations, especially the prohibition against hosting large groups (more than ten). He said there are 32 senior members and more are eligible, but they do not want to give up "regular membership's" privileges. It was noted that at this time, senior members pay half/dues. Brad said he thought seniors already used the club as much as resident members for half the cost.

OLD BUSINESS:
Peter suggested there should be a general discussion about last year's "new large party policy" soon anyway.

As you have probably noticed if you have been down to the Island, the path is in disrepair. After exploring several avenues of repair, Warren announced that the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club has asked its membership for a dozen volunteers to improve the trail on SATURDAYS, OCTOBER 21 and 28. In exchange for the work, they have been offered the opportunity to enjoy Sycamore Island with refreshments and lunch arranged by Johnna. Island members are encouraged to volunteer for the trail work and food preparations. Call Warren or Johnna.

ON SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12, FROM 10:00 A.M. ON, THERE WILL BE A WORKFEST AND PARTY. PLEASE COME JOIN IN THE WORK AND FUN. FLOATS NEED BRINGIN' IN AND LEAVES NEED RAKIN' AND WE NEED PARTYIN'. (PICNICS NEED BRINGIN')

-- Laureen Nicholson, Recording Secretary