Attendance:
Tryon Wells, Dave Winer, Jane Winer, Johnna Robinson, Jinny Jones, George Loeb, Marcia Loeb, Tom Richards, Blair Bower, John Matthews, Pat Roth, Doc Taliaferro, Holly Syrrakos

President Tryon Wells called the meeting to order at 8: 10 p.m.

The membership approved the Minutes of the previous meeting. However, it was noted that two meetings ago (March), addresses for new members were omitted from the Membership report.

Communications:
Letters from Blair Bower and Al Brown expressed their opinions in opposition to members using the Island facilities to raise funds for other organizations. [Discussed more generally later in the meeting.] Charles Bookman wrote to resign his membership. Bill Whalen, who is compiling a list of canoe club websites, had great praise for the Sycamore Island site -- he had a "virtual Sycamore moment." Peggy Thomson sent a message noting the absence of the Spring Flower Walk and suggested perhaps the Island had forgotten to ask Ellen Richards and Joan Heidemann to do one. This was inadvertent and the meeting thought it would be good to have a walk next spring.

The Islander
David and Jane Winer said that the May Islander weighed more than an ounce and so was a more expensive mailing than usual.

Canoe Chair's Report
David Winer had signs made pointing out that canoes with Sycamore Island decals are Club canoes and may be used by members and their guests, while all other boats are privately owned.

Captain's Report
John Matthews noted that the electrical line above the path on the hill needs to be raised and is looking for a volunteer to help. He also said there should be another bell attached to the ferry bell line, so that caretakers can be free to walk further from the house and still hear the ringing. He will look for a ship's bell as an auxiliary. There was general discussion about repairing picnic tables and Tryon will work with John on the arrangements. John also noted that the wood floor in the clubhouse needs to be oiled and was given permission. to hire someone to do the job.

Entertainment Committee Report
George and Marcia Loeb reminded the meeting that it was time to plan the upcoming Regatta. The sense was to hold it in August or September, but no later than Labor Day weekend.

The Canoe Cruiser's Association Down River Race was scheduled for May 23, with the Club traditionally hosting the Finish.

There was some discussion about scheduling an Old Timer's potluck, since the last one was in Oct. 1998.

Old Business
Standing Rules Changes
Rule 6. Guest Cards

This change passed 8-2. The discussion reflected a sense that the Island is crowded and this would limit immediate access. The rule now reads:

"Guest cards may only be issued between January 1 and March 31. Upon request of an applicant for membership who is in good standing, the Membership Secretary may issue to such applicant a guest card valid for the year in which issued."

Anti-Fundraising proposal
The sense of the meeting was that members should not be able to use their membership to raise funds for other organizations or for themselves. There was some discussion about whether this should be a change to the By-laws or just the Standing Rules. The motion was withdrawn and will be re-drafted.

Rule 10. Conduct on the Islands--These changes passed unanimously. The rule now reads:

d. No playing of amplified audio equipment shall be permitted on the Islands unless approved for a large party by the members in meeting assembled.

e. All members are required to remove any trash from club property that was produced from their visit to the Islands.

Rule 11. Clubhouse Rules--This change passed 5-4.

b. Persons remaining overnight on the Islands shall not use the kitchen facilities between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., or make any avoidable noise in or near the clubhouse during those hours;

Rule 3M Supervisor of Camping and Parties--The motion failed for lack of a majority on a 4-4 vote. This proposal was to have the Party Chair assign campsites.

New Business
Standing Rule Change: Under the Guest Card rule, David Winer proposes the following:

"Guest Card holders who are single, may bring a friend while visiting the Island."

David points out that families holding a Guest Card are entitled to bring their entire family while single people must come to the Island alone because they are not allowed to bring any guests at all. This will be voted on at the June meeting.

The meeting adjourned at 10: 15 p.m.

Next Meeting:
The next meeting will be on June 9 at 8:00 p.m. on the Island, water level permitting.

-Holly Syrrakos, Acting Recording Secretary