Constitution of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club

Founded 1957, Incorporated April 8, 1960

Article I Name

1. The name of this organization shall be the "Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, Incorporated".
2. Burgee: The Burgee will be a navy blue silhouette of a seahorse in the shape of a letter "S" on a triangular field of gold outlined in blue.

 

Article II Object

1. The object of the club shall be:
   
   1. To promote and develop interest in sailing and sailboat racing.
   2. To cooperate with and aid individuals and groups interested in sailing and to require in return observance of such rules and regulations as are set forth by this organization.
2. The club is not intended for and shall not be conducted for profit.

 

Article III Affiliation

1. The club shall affiliate with the United States Sailing Association directly or with any successor organizations.

 

Article IV Membership

1. Eligibility
   1. Any person or group with sailing interest may apply for membership to the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club.
   2. The Club does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnic origin, religion, gender, or age.
2. Classes of Membership
   1. Regular Member: An individual, or family unit and any children under the age of 21 or who are fulltime students at a recognized institution of higher learning up to age 26, are members and constitute a membership. They have all the attendant obligations and privileges, except that only one person from a membership may vote on any issue or hold elected office at any one time.
   2. Student Member: An individual up to age 26 who is a fulltime student at a recognized institution of higher learning may have a membership with all the obligations and privileges of membership. Minors must have parental consent.
   3. Junior Member: An individual who is of secondary school age (typically age 19 or under), who is active with the Sailing School. Their privileges are limited to their use of Club facilities during the sailing season and receipt of Club mailings; they cannot bring guests, vote, or hold office. Their application must be cosigned by a parent or guardian, who must also execute an Agreement and Waiver provided by the Club.
   4. Organization Member: To promote instruction and participation in sailing, the Executive Committee may grant an organization membership to a sailing club or other group. The Executive Committee shall define the obligations and privileges of each organization membership in writing. An organization membership has a life of one year and may be renewed at the discretion of the Executive Committee. An organization membership may not vote or hold office.
   5. Crew Member: An individual whose primary use of the club is as crew of a regular member may apply for a crew membership. Crew memberships meet the requirements of club membership for US Sailing championship events, and allow the crew member to receive club mailings. Crew members' privileges are limited to use of the club only when accompanied by a regular member.
   6. Corresponding Member: A member who, for reasons acceptable to the Executive Committee, is unable to use the club facilities or participate in club activities but wishes to maintain a membership and receive club mailings may become a corresponding member. Their obligations are limited to payment of dues and fees as specified in the Bylaws. Their privileges are limited to maintenance of their name on the membership roll. They may not use the club facilities except as the guest of a regular member.
   7. Honorary Member: A person whom the Club wishes to honor for their contribution to the club may be elected an Honorary Member by majority vote of the Executive Committee. An Honorary Member is entitled to all the privileges of membership.  
3. Obligations and Privileges of Membership
   1. A member is privileged to participate in club activities and to use the club facilities within the regulations established in the Bylaws or as otherwise established by the Executive Committee.
   2. A membership must pay dues, fees and carry out work assignments as specified in the Bylaws.
   3. A membership is entitled to one vote on business presented at Club meetings and to hold one elected office in the Club at any one time.

 

Article V Officers and Elections

1. The Club shall be governed by the following officers who shall be elected at each annual meeting. In the event that an executive office is vacated before a term expires, a successor shall be appointed by the Executive Committee.
   
   Executive Officers
   
   
   1. Commodore: The Commodore shall preside at all meetings and shall rule on procedure and appoint standing committee chairpersons as required. The Commodore shall be empowered to call all meetings and shall designate the time and place. The Commodore will be an ex-offico member of all committees.
   2. Vice Commodore: The Vice Commodore shall officiate in the absence of the Commodore and acts as custodian of the clubhouse, grounds, and equipment used ashore.
   3. Rear Commodore: The Rear Commodore shall officiate in the absence of the Commodore and Vice Commodore. The Rear Commodore acts as custodian of the racing program, docks, moorings, club owned boats and equipment used afloat.
   4. Secretary: The Secretary shall keep written minutes of all meetings and will maintain Club records.
   5. Treasurer: The Treasurer shall deposit all funds, keep financial records, make necessary disbursements, render a periodic report and notify members of the date that dues and fees are payable.
      
      Flag Lieutenants
      
      
   6. Flag Lieutenant Race: Shall be responsible for the racing program at SLSC. The Flag Lieutenant Race reports to the Rear Commodore.
   7. Flag Lieutenant Boats: Shall be responsible for the control and maintenance of club owned boats. The Flag Lieutenant Boats reports to the Rear Commodore.
   8. Flag Lieutenant Grounds: Shall be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the grounds and outbuildings. The Flag Lieutenant Grounds reports to the Vice Commodore.
   9. Flag Lieutenant House: Shall be responsible for the operation, maintenance and scheduling for the use of the clubhouse. The Flag Lieutenant House reports to the Vice Commodore.
2. Appointed Standing Committees: The following Standing Committees are appointed by the Commodore:
   • Membership
   • Publicity
   • Social
   • Budget
   • Nominating
   • Historian
   • Long Range Planning
   • In addition, the Commodore may appoint other ad hoc committees.
3. The Executive Committee shall consist of:
   1. The Executive Officers
   2. The Flag Lieutenants
   3. The following Committee Chairpersons:
      1. Membership
      2. Publicity
      3. Social
      4. Sailing Program

 

Article VI Meetings of Members

1. The Annual Meeting will be held as defined in the Bylaws. The Secretary shall mail a notice of this meeting to all members at least 30 days in advance of this date and shall include the slate of officers nominated by the Nominating Committee.
2. Membership meetings shall be held at the discretion of the Executive Committee. The time and place of these meetings shall be designated by the Commodore. Meetings may be cancelled at the discretion of the Executive Committee. At these meetings, the members may make recommendations concerning the business of the club, vote on the annual budget or budget revisions as proposed by the Executive Committee, and act on any pending Bylaw amendments as prescribed by the Bylaws.
3. Special meetings will be called at a time and place designated by the Commodore upon written notice to the Secretary signed by at least 10 % of the voting memberships. The Secretary will notify all voting members of special meetings by mail.
4. Quorum - 20 voting memberships shall constitute a quorum.

 

Article VII Amendments

1. The constitution may be amended only at the annual meeting or at a special meeting by a 2/3 vote of those present in person or represented by proxy, provided that the proposed amendment shall be set forth in the notice of the meeting. A quorum must be present.

 

Revision History

William H. Lee, 1966

Elenor C. Rice and William G. Webb, 1976

Allan Miller, 1977

Elenor C. Rice and Mary Elizabeth Hull, 1978

David K. Hudson, 1989

David K. Hudson, Jean Grimmer, Ann Booth, Joel Klienberg, 1991

Emmett McCarthy, Bruce Blackie, David K. Hudson, Harry Redgrave, Ann K Seidman, and Alan Tedrow, 2002

Ann K Seidman, Mark Welcome, Peter Seidman, 2015

Approved by membership at annual meeting Dec 4, 1966

Revisions approved at Dec 15, 1968 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Jan 1, 1973 budget meeting

Revisions approved at Dec 2, 1973 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Dec 8, 1974 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Jan 26, 1975 budget meeting

Revisions approved at Mar 28, 1976 special meeting

Revisions approved at Dec 4, 1976 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Feb 5, 1989 special meeting

Revisions approved at Dec 1, 1991 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Feb 6, 1994 special meeting

Revisions approved at Dec 1, 2002 annual meeting

Revisions approved at Feb 15, 2015 special meeting

Bylaws of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club

Revised Feb. 18, 2024

 

Section 1 Membership

1. Application - Applicants for membership shall fill out an application form furnished by the Club. The form shall be submitted to the Membership Committee in order to judge the desirability of the candidate and make its recommendation to the Executive Committee.
2. Resignation - If at any time a member wishes to resign from the Club, he or she shall give written notice to the Executive Committee.
   1. There shall be no refund of dues.
   2. All monies owed the Club in the form of either dues or services shall be payable immediately.
      
   3. Equity Bonds will be returned upon specific written request within 2 years of resignation from the Club.
   4. Members of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club, Inc. (SLSC) agree that upon separation from SLSC, they shall remove all items of personal property, including but not limited to all boats, vessels, sails and equipment that Members own or any property that Members caused to be placed upon SLSC premises, from all SLSC premises, within 30 days of such separation date. In the event item(s) of personal property are left by Members after thirty days, Members agree that SLSC and/or its successors and assigns may dispose of any personal property remaining on any SLSC premises in any manner that SLSC sees fit, including destruction, sale, or other remedy. In the event that any Member's property is so disposed of, Member waives any monetary reimbursement whatsoever for such disposal, sale, retention or other remedy and understands that Member may be liable to reimburse SLSC for the reasonable costs of such disposal, sale, retention or other remedy. This Personal Property Release shall be enforceable by SLSC and its successors and assigns. Member hereby releases and holds harmless SLSC and its members, representatives, agents, attorneys, Officers, Directors, employees, successors and assigns from any claim or liability, loss, cost, or expense, including reasonable attorney’s fees, for any and all personal property left on the Property after the separation date. Members hereby waive any rights they may have pursuant to the New York Abandoned Property Law, the Navigation Law, and all other applicable laws and rules. This release does not automatically create a vesting in ownership or title to any property, but merely creates an election of remedies on the part of SLSC.
3. Expulsion - A member may be dropped from membership for the following reasons:
   1. Non-payment of dues, fees, or assessments.
   2. Failure to participate in Club work details.
      
   3. Failure to attend at least one meeting during a period of one year.
   4. Conduct unbecoming a member.
      
      Expulsion is determined by the Executive Committee and is subject to appeal at the next membership meeting.
      
4. Limitations on Membership
   1. The total number of Regular Memberships in the club shall be approximately 185. The Executive Committee has discretion to exceed that target in any given year provided that the additional memberships do not, in their opinion, unduly tax the club’s resources. There shall be no limit on the other categories of membership. Whenever the total number of Regular Memberships is less than 185, such vacancies may be filled by the Executive Committee at its discretion from among the applicants for membership in accordance with the following rules:
      1. When Regular Memberships reach 150, a quota is placed on pending applications. New members are accepted from both sanctioned and non sanctioned fleets. However, no more than 40% of those accepted will be new non-sanctioned fleet owners. The Executive Committee determines sanctioned fleets by the March Executive Board meeting.
      2. When Regular Memberships reach 175, new members will be admitted only from applications of owners with sanctioned fleet boats to a limit of approximately 185 memberships.
         
      3. After July 15th, any pending applications will be addressed without regard to the percentage of non-sanctioned fleets described in Section a. to reach 185 memberships.
         
      4. At the Executive Committee’s discretion, the Committee may consider applicants who are active sailors/crew members who do NOT own their own boat without regard to fleet membership.

 

Section 2 Club Officers and Duties

1. The Executive Committee shall be responsible for:
   
   1. Preparing and submitting the Annual Budget to the membership for approval at the first regular meeting following the Annual Meeting. The budget shall consist of a balance sheet showing projected income and proposed expenditures. The annual budget must contain a cash flow reserve fund which cannot be used for other purposes without the approval of the membership.
   2. Managing and conducting all Club business within the approved annual budget.
   3. Interpreting the Constitution and Bylaws and sanctioning Club activities.
   4. Reviewing Club business prior to all membership meetings.
   5. Approving the members of the standing committees by the first regular meeting following the Annual Meeting.
   6. Acting on new membership applications within 30 days of presentation by the membership committee.
2. A quorum for all Executive Committee meetings shall consist of at least 5 members. A majority vote of those present shall decide issues brought before the committee.
3. Vacancies occurring during the term may be filled by the Executive Committee.

 

Section 3 Standing Committees

1. Membership Committee - This committee shall receive all applications for membership. It will investigate the background and qualifications of the applicant and recommend either the acceptance or rejection to the Executive Committee at its next meeting. The Membership Committee will also maintain the Club's membership roster.
2. Publicity Committee - This committee shall be responsible for publicizing club activities and publishing the Club newsletter.
   
   
3. Social Committee - This committee will be responsible for social events.
4. Budget Committee - This committee will consist of not less than three members in addition to the treasurer. The duties of this committee shall be to advise the Executive Board concerning priorities for major expenditures and ways and means of meeting Club expenses.
5. Long Range Planning Committee - This committee will also consist of not less than three members in addition to the treasurer. The duties of this committee shall be to assess the long range needs of the Club, particularly in regard to capital expenses, develop a multi-year plan to meet these capital needs, and advise the Executive Board of possible ways to fund these capital needs. This committee shall update the Long Range Plan at least annually.
6. Nominating Committee - This committee is chaired by the immediate Past Commodore if available. The Past Commodore will appoint four other members of the committee no later than August 31st. The Nominating Committee shall present its proposed slate to the Executive Committee no later than the October meeting and to the membership at the Annual Meeting.
7. A Club Historian shall be appointed. The historian's duties shall be to gather and preserve items that pertain to the Club.

 

Section 4 Dues, Fees and Assessments

1. Annual Dues - Annual Dues shall be in accordance with a Dues Schedule as recommended by the Executive Committee and approved by the membership at a membership meeting of the Club. Dues are payable on or before April 1st for the ensuing year.
   1. Members will be billed for Annual Dues (and fees and assessments, if applicable) by March 1st.
   2. Members who have not renewed their membership by April 1st will be dropped from membership, unless specific arrangements have been made with the Executive Committee.
   3. Dues of new members whose applications for membership are approved by the Executive Committee after August 15th shall be 50% of the annual amount.
2. Racing Fees - Each racing skipper, regardless of class of membership, may be charged a fee, as recommended by the Executive Committee and approved by the membership.
3. Work Assessments - Each member is expected to contribute their time to work parties and other activities of the Club. The activities shall be determined by the Executive Committee at the start of the year. These activities may  include, but are not limited to, Docks In days, Docks Out days, Club  sponsored social events, support of the racing program by assisting in the  conduct of races, and special projects coordinated by the Club’s officers.
   
4. Equity Bonds - The purchase of an Equity Bond in the amount of $300 shall be required of all members who were admitted prior to 2014 under the following terms:
   1. Method of Purchase - Members will purchase the required bond by lump sum, due by April 1st of the year following the acceptance into the Club, i.e. when their second year's dues would be payable.
   2. Method of Repayment - Upon termination of regular membership for any reason and upon written request to the Treasurer within 2 years of resignation, a member will be repaid the full bond value.
   3. Penalty for Non-payment - It is understood that the word "fees" as used in Section 1-C.1 of the Bylaws includes these bond payments.
   4. The cost of such Equity Bonds must be approved by a quorum of the membership at a special meeting by a 2/3 vote of those present or represented by a proxy. The Club's treasury shall always contain an amount equal to not less than 10% of the outstanding Equity Bond principal.
5. Initiation Fee - New Regular members admitted in 2014 and thereafter shall pay a one-time initiation fee in accordance with a Dues Schedule as recommended by the Executive Committee and approved by the membership at a membership meeting of the Club. Such initiation fee shall be non-refundable. A member who changes membership status to Corresponding, remains a continuous Corresponding member, and thereafter returns to Regular membership, shall not be charged a second initiation fee if the Executive Committee approves the membership.

 

Section 5 Meetings

1. Order of Business - The Order of Business for the Annual Meeting shall be:
   1. Call to order
   2. Reading of the minutes of the last membership meeting
   3. Reports of Officers
   4. Reports of Committees
   5. Action on any pending constitutional amendments
   6. Other business
   7. Election of officers and executive committee members
   8. Adjournment
2. Rules - The parliamentary authority for the Club shall be Roberts Rules of Order, Newly Revised. With the exception of revisions to the constitution or bylaws, all matters brought to a vote shall be decided by a majority vote of those present.
3. Quorum - A quorum is required to transact business at all meetings.
4. Annual Meeting - The Annual Meeting shall be held on the first Sunday after the first Saturday in December to begin no later than 7:30 PM for the purpose of electing officers of the Club, and for the transaction of such other business as may come before the meeting. If the election of officers shall not be held on the day designated herein for any annual meeting, or any adjournments thereof, the officers shall cause the election to be held at a special meeting of the members as soon as convenient.
5. Meetings Held Electronically - Meetings of the Board and other official club meetings may be conducted by telephone or internet means. Telephone or internet meetings of the Board shall be subject to all rules adopted by the Board to govern such meetings, which may include any reasonable limitations on, and requirements for, Board members’ participation. Any such rules adopted by the Board shall supersede any conflicting rules in the parliamentary authority but may not otherwise conflict with or alter any rule or decision of the Board.
6. Electronic Voting - Meetings of the Board and other official club meetings that are conducted through use of telephone or Internet shall allow for voting by live electronic voting or audible roll call. Business may also be conducted by unanimous consent.

 

Section 6 Clubhouse and Grounds

1. Responsibility - The Vice Commodore is responsible for maintenance and appearance of the Clubhouse and grounds. The Vice Commodore shall arrange for all housekeeping activities as required.
2. Clubhouse - The Clubhouse shall be used for the benefit of all members, subject to guidelines adopted by the Executive Committee.
3. Boats, dinghies, tenders and trailers stored on the Club grounds shall be placed in areas assigned by the Flag Lieutenant Grounds in such a way as to minimize interference with Club activities.
4. Damage - Any Club property or equipment damaged or broken by a member or their guest must be promptly reported to the Vice Commodore. Repairs or replacements must be made within a reasonable time to the satisfaction of the Vice Commodore or the member may be fined an amount equal to the value of the equipment as determined by the Executive Committee.

 

Section 7 Waterfront

1. Responsibility - The Rear Commodore is responsible for all waterfront equipment and arrangements.
   
2. Racks and Moorings - Rack and mooring locations shall be such as to permit free and unobstructed access to and from the dock and ramp. Location, materials and construction of racks and moorings are subject to the approval of the Rear Commodore. It is the responsibility of the rack or mooring owner to maintain their own equipment. The Club is not responsible for installation, maintenance or removal of racks and moorings.
   
3. Power Boats - Personal power boats are not to be stored on Club grounds or used at the Club for recreational purposes under any circumstances. All other uses, docking or mooring of power boats will be at the discretion of the Rear Commodore or the Executive Committee in his/her absence. Auxiliary powered sailboats are not considered power boats. Club owned power boats are intended for use by the Race Committee in starting and supervising races, for rescue and patrol work and for work parties and shall be used as utility vessels only. They may not be used as transport, substitute dinghy or pleasure craft. For safety and to rescue boaters in distress, members are strongly encouraged to learn to operate the Club’s powerboats. Driving any power-driven boat
   requires a Boater Safety Certification, in accordance with NY State Law. Members should take advantage of training provided by the club to obtain the NY State Boater Safety Certificate.
   
   

 

Section 8 Racing

1. Responsibility - A Club member assigned by the Flag Lieutenant Race will have complete charge of each race, including course selection, postponement, starting and all other decisions pertinent to running the races. Races shall be conducted under Club, class, and US Sailing rules in that order of precedence.
2. It shall be the sole responsibility of each yacht to decide whether or not to start or continue to race.

 

Section 9 Guests

1. Non-member boat owners may sail their boats at the Club on two separate occasions during the season as guests of a member. Thereafter, non-members must join the Club as a member to use the Club facilities.
2. Invitational Events - Non-member boat owners may be invited to participate in Fleet or Club Regattas. Such participation shall not be considered within the limitations on visits.
3. Members Responsibility - To avoid overcrowding, members should limit the number of guests and the occasions on which guests are brought to the Club, in accordance with the policies and guidelines established by the Executive Committee. Members are responsible for their guests' actions while visiting the Club.

 

Section 10 Miscellaneous

1. Club Liability - The Club shall not be liable for loss or damage to members' boats, equipment, racks, or any personal belongings left or stored on Club property.

 

Section 11 Amendment

1. Bylaws Revision - The Bylaws may be revised at any membership, annual, or special meeting by a 2/3 vote of those present or represented by proxy, providing that the proposed revision has been discussed at the previous general meeting and has been set forth in the notice of meeting.

 

FOR THE SAFETY OF ALL SLSC MEMBERS – IMPORTANT NOTICE

SLSC Requirement for Powerboat Operation and Training

New York State passed Brianna’s Law in 2017. This law has phased in requiring individuals operating any power-driven boat in NYS to hold a Boater Safety Certificate. For 2024, anyone operating a club powerboat must have been born before 1/1/1978 or possess a Boater Safety Certificate. On January 1, 2025, anyone operating a power-driven boat in New York shall have taken this training at some time.

Your club leadership understands that we are a sailing club. We are also a community of people who have created an organization where we work together to help each other. Emergencies are unpredictable. We must be ready for emergencies on the lake whenever they occur. This training positions us to be prepared for the unexpected.

Our Club is implementing the following policy:

For each member unit, one adult member shall have obtained a NYS Boater Safety Certificate or the equivalent* and possess proof of that completion.

For members who have taken Boater Safety Training and have a Certificate or card, please send a copy to allancmiller48@gmail.com.

In addition, one family member with a Boater Safety Certificate shall have completed the SLSC-provided on-the-water powerboat operation training and be added to the Club's list of members who have completed that training.

For members with previous experience operating powerboats, proof of satisfactory operation of a powerboat may be provided by discussion and/or demonstration of operation with one of the club powerboat instructors listed on the Club website. 

For 2024, anyone operating a club powerboat must have been born before 1/1/1978 or possess a Boater Safety Certificate.
Commencing on 1/1/25, anyone operating a Club powerboat must have a Boater Safety Certificate and be on the Club list of trained powerboat operators. More than one member of a member unit may also obtain this training.

 
An existing or new member must complete this training before receiving their dues notice for the following year.

An individual or member unit may request an exemption from this membership requirement by contacting the Vice Commodore.

* Approved Boater Safety courses include - US Coast Guard, US Power Squadron, and other state Boating Safety Certificates. Any course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA)is also accepted by NY State and other states.

 

To make it as easy and convenient as possible for any member of SLSC to get this training, we have several ways to accomplish these.

Boater Safety Certificates:

If you have one and you are not already listed on the club website, send a scanned copy to allancmiller48@gmail.com

If you would like to take a Boater Safety Course by the Club Instructor, you can sign up for one at https://www.register-ed.com/programs/new_york/252-new-york-safe-boating-course

This site lists all courses. Courses are given at the West Marine Store in Latham (Zip 12210) on 4/20, 4/27, 5/18, and 6/1. These classes are free to SLSC members. (NYS charges $10 for the Certification Card). If no seats are available, contact Allan.

If you have boating experience, you may find an online course more convenient.

Search for the NYS Boater Safety Course online. A long list will come up.
A suggestion is Boat US. It charges $10 for a certification card. https://www.boatus.org/newyork/

 

Powerboat Training

Members with previous powerboat operation experience may become Club powerboat instructors by contacting Allan at 518-441-3899.

 

Members with powerboat operation experience may request exemption from the training by discussing and demonstrating with any Club Powerboat Instructors.

 

The club has set up a powerboat training program to provide basic powerboat operation training to our members who need it. The training is about 2.5 hours on the water. The instructors on the club website may be contacted to arrange a time. An instructor may take up to three students on a boat.

 

SLSC Website Information “News and Events” “Boater Safety Instruction”

For questions, contact Allan Miller at allancmiller48@gmail.com, John Smith at john.smithflyer@gmail.com, or George McNally at gmcnallyd68@gmail.com.

Facility Use Rules

1. No dogs are allowed on the grounds. Members or guests who bring dogs will be asked to remove them from the club grounds immediately.
2. No cars or other motor vehicles may be parked in the boat partk area. Parking is available off the roadway south of the clubhouse and west of the barns.
3. No boats my be stored on the lawn. Approved storage is assigned by the Flag Lieutenant Grounds or by the Vice Commodore.
4. Cleaning up after yourself is required, including washing, drying and storing away any dishes used.
5. If you invite a guest or guests to use our club you must be present any time they are. This means that if your guests are staying overnight at the club, you must stay overnight also.

MEMBER SPONSORED EVENTS

Revised October 2010

SLSC members (regular, student or honorary only) may invite guests to use the house and other facilities for social activities. The following is designed to assure safety, preserve the condition of the house and grounds, and minimize inconvenience for other SLSC members.

 

Event Size: Notification and charges:

Fees (checks payable to “Saratoga Lake Sailing Club”) shall be paid in advance.

 

Regardless of the number of people, there is a $5 charge for each non-member who stays at the Club overnight.

 

1. Small parties: Fewer than 8 people and fewer than 3 people overnight. No notification is required. Check the SLSC calendar to avoid conflicts, even for small parties.
2. Medium-sized parties: Maximum: 14 people for daytime and 4 people overnight. The Flag Lieutenant House shall be notified at least 48 hours prior to the event and the event shall be scheduled on the SLSC calendar. There is a daily group charge of $25 for in-season events (May-October) and a $50 charge for (November-April).
3. Large parties: Maximum: 30 people for daytime and 10 people overnight. Flag Lieutenant House notification and approval is required a minimum of two weeks prior to the event. The daily group charge is $50 (May-October) and $75 (November-April).
4. Very large parties: More than the large party maximum. Executive Committee notification and an impact statement are required 45 days prior to the event. The impact statement shall include arrangements and facilities for cooking and kitchen use, water use, parking, added toilets (if needed), setup/takedown plans and times, together with any unusual requirement imposed on the house and grounds. Instead of a daily group charge, there is a $5 daily charge for each person attending the event. Contact Flag Lieutenant House for more information.

 

Event Approval

Generally, only one of the larger-party events will be approved on a given day, on a first-come, first-serve basis. These events will not be scheduled to conflict with Club-sponsored activities, which include regular Club races, regattas and Club social events. Member-sponsored events associated with commercial or work-related activities will not be approved. The Club will not approve proposals to make the clubhouse a regular meeting place for non-profit groups, like the Scouts. Controversial and unusual requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis by the SLSC Board.

 

Event guidelines

Member-sponsored events are not granted exclusive use of any SLSC facilities. Club members take precedence, including the use of kitchen and picnic facilities. However, it is expected that club members will cooperate with member-sponsored events.

 

The member who sponsors the event must be present at all times, including overnight use.

 

The Clubhouse should be left as clean as it was found and there should be no excessive use of Club resources, such a paper products. Cleanup should be completed by noon of the day following the event (or 9am if a club-sponsored event takes place that day). The sponsor is responsible for cleanup.

 

Alcohol (if part of a member-sponsored event) will be served in a responsible manner in compliance with the laws of New York State and the Alcohol Policy of SLSC. No alcohol will be left at the club overnight or after the event has concluded.

 

Overnight lodging is confined to the second and third floors of the Clubhouse, or to camping on the lawns.

 

No dogs are allowed.

 

Parking is allowed only in designated areas, and not in the boat park.

 

Please submit this Member Sponsored Event Request form to the Flag Lieutenant House.

Saratoga Lake Sailing Club

Regatta Policy

It is the policy of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club to encourage Fleets to host Regattas at the club, and to provide those facilities that are necessary for such regattas.

 

Fleets are reminded that all facilities of SLSC are shared with the other members. The house should be kept reasonably clean during the regatta, and visitors should be encouraged to treat the club facilities with respect.

 

To the extent possible, campers and RVs requiring electrical service should be located near the electrical outlets at the old barn site or the front part of the meadow. Campers and RVs located in the parking circle area near the house must not obstruct the roadway and any power cords must be covered or taped so as to not create a trip hazard. Tents can be placed on the upper lawn along the property fence or on the lower lawn. Pop-Up trailers should be placed on the lower lawn; or near the old barn site if they need electrical power.

 

The responsible officer of the hosting Fleet must designate event officers or perform these tasks themselves:

• Alcohol: the event Alcohol Officer must agree to ensure participants abide by the SLSC alcohol policy for the time that they will be on SLSC property
• House: the event House Officer is responsible for ensuring that the house (including the kitchen) is kept reasonably clean and tidy during the regatta, and that final clean-up is performed the last day of the regatta
• Grounds: the event Grounds Officer is responsible for ensuring that the grounds are kept reasonably clean, that final grounds clean-up is performed on the last day of the regatta, and will supervise removal and return of boats to the boat park per the SLSC Boat Park Policy
• Overnight: The event Overnight Officer will stay overnight on SLSC property whenever non-member guests are staying overnight on club grounds. No Overnight Officer is required if no non-member guests will be spending the night on SLSC property

 

Fleets holding Regattas are asked complete the attached Information Statement  below and submit it to Flag Lt. House, Flag Lt. Grounds and Flag Lt. Race at least one month prior to the regatta. Check lists for House and Grounds clean-up are included in the document.

 

Regatta Form

 

Boat Storage Policy

 

General

The storage and location of boats/trailers stored on land is at the discretion of the Flag Lieutenant Grounds; boats on moorings and water racks are stored at the discretion of the Rear Commodore.

 

All boats at the Club must be prominently identified with the owner’s name, either with a Club-issued annual decal or otherwise neatly and legibly labeled. This identification can be on the trailer for those boats stored on trailers. Any trailers at the Club while the boat is on a mooring must also be identified.

 

SLSC-owned trailer tongues are painted blue, Foundation-owned trailer tongues are painted gold, abandoned/unknown trailer tongues will be painted orange and will be disposed of by the Club.

 

The appropriate storage fee must be paid for all boats and equipment kept on Club property. If a member has a trailer for travel and uses a dolly during the summer for boat storage at the Club, the trailer may be stored in the meadow at no charge. If a member is storing an additional trailer, a storage fee must be paid.

 

SLSC bears no responsibility for loss of equipment or damage to boats stored on SLSC property due to causes either natural or as a result of acts of individuals.

 

Each boat must display a valid, annually renewable, SLSC boat storage decal. A valid decal shall be affixed to the boat or trailer no later than Memorial Day. The decal shall be affixed to the starboard bow, or to the front of the trailer on the starboard side.

 

Members who do not affix a valid SLSC boat decal and place their boat in their assigned boat park space by June 15 may lose their assignment and the location would be made available to other members.

 

It is the responsibility of each member to ensure their boat(s) and equipment are in their assigned space(s).

 

No boats may be in direct contact with the ground. Boats must be on a wheeled vehicle, or on appropriate jack stands. Board boats must be on a rack or dolly.

 

All wheeled vehicles/dollies must be in good repair, without flat tires. The Club reserves the right to repair flat tires and bill members for the repair. Minimum of $200/tire.

 

Boats should be stored so water does not accumulate in the hull.

 

Tarps on boats in poor condition, that most people would consider an eyesore, may be removed and discarded by the Club. No tarps are to be stored on the ground, even if they are folded. Any tarps on the ground will be discarded.

 

Boats stored at the Club should be in sailable condition and used during the sailing season. Project boats, those requiring work to be made sailable, need Board approval to be stored at the Club. A “project boat worksheet” shall be submitted to the Board for each such boat.

 

Well maintained storage boxes no larger than 24”W x 30”H x 60”L are permitted. Storage boxes shall be placed along the tree line, or for board boat storage, shall be placed in the area between the board boats and the boat park.

 

Limits on Number of Boats

The number of boats a member can store at the Club is subject to Board approval.

 

Members shall list the boats they will keep at the Club on the annual renewal form. Any increase in the number or change in location of the boats from the previous year is subject to Board approval. Any desired changes during the season shall be presented to the Board for approval.

 

New members shall list the boats they will keep at the Club on the application form. Any desired changes listed on the dues form or during the season shall be presented to the Board for approval.

 

Boat Park Policy

The Club has a designated boat park area for sailboats on trailers. A map and boat park assignments are posted in the Race Committee shed at the north end of the boat park and on the Club website.

 

The Flag Lt. Grounds may reassign spaces to improve the safety or the efficiency of the boat park. Boat park assignments are for the use of the designated member only. Any relocation of boats, or swapping of boat park spaces, must be approved in advance by the Flag Lt. Grounds or designee.

 

Eligible Boats

The boat park provides an assigned location for boats stored on trailers and launched from the North ramp or crane on a regular basis. Due to space limitations, the boat park is not be used for long-term storage of boats you do not intend to use. Sailboats on tandem trailers are not eligible for a boat park space due to their size and may be provided with a parking space elsewhere on the grounds.

 

Winter Storage

In order to allow for boat park maintenance, areas of the boat park may be emptied prior to the fall work party. Members will be notified in the Telltale of the area to be emptied each fall.

 

Board Boat Storage Policy

The Club has a designated area to store board boats (such as Lasers or Sunfish). Boats may be stored on the racks erected by the Club or on a dolly. Board boats may not be left on trailers intended for highway use (these are too heavy for our caretaker to move). Board boats may not be left on the lawn when not in use. Each club member storing a board boat on a dolly is expected to build or purchase a dolly for their boat. SLSC has provided several clearly marked dollies for member daily use. They are intended for daily use only; boats may not be left on a Club dolly overnight.

 

It is the responsibility of each member to ensure their boat(s) are lined up according to the posted plan. There are no specific location assignments.

 

As the season gets underway boats should generally be stored in the same location after each use.

 

Eligible Boats

Board type sailboats under 150 lbs in hull weight. E.g. Sunfish, Sailfish, Lasers.

 

Winter Storage

Board boats may be left in the racks or on their dollies for the winter in the location they are during the summer. It is the owner's responsibility for properly protecting the boat from the elements.

 

Mooring Policy

The Club has designated the Northern portion of the Special Anchorage Area, established with New York State, as the location in which Club members may moor their boats. The mooring area extends along the shoreline 500 feet north from the race committee storage building, and extends into the lake 400 feet east from the shoreline. Designated mooring spots are separated by 70 feet between mooring locations. The Club does not provide nor maintain moorings in the area. It is the responsibility of each individual member to obtain, place, and maintain adequate ground tackle for the safety of all boats in the mooring field. Members are responsible for any damage to other boats which may be caused by their boat.

 

Eligible Boats

The purpose of the mooring area is to provide an anchorage location for boats which are too large or impractical to be stored on trailers and launched from the crane or the ramp. Due to space limitation, it is not the intention to provide mooring positions for centerboard dinghies. For practical and safety reasons, boats longer than 23 feet are not permitted in the mooring area.

 

Mooring Assignments

In general, members keep their assigned positions from year to year. The Rear Commodore may rearrange spaces to improve the safety or the efficiency of the mooring field. Mooring assignments are for the use of the designated member only. Any transfer or other use of the mooring must be approved in advance by the Rear Commodore or designate.

 

Members without a mooring assignment may request a mooring at any time during the year by completing a Mooring Request Form and sending it to the Rear Commodore. The information on the Mooring Request Form will be used to establish a waiting list if there are more mooring requests than available spaces. Following the March 31 membership renewal deadline, the Rear Commodore will identify any resulting openings in the mooring field and make new mooring assignments.

 

Members who have a mooring assignment but have not placed their boat on their mooring by June 30 will be contacted by the Rear Commodore to indicate their intention for the season. Members that do not place a boat on a mooring by July 15 may lose their assignment and the location will be made available.

 

Dinghy Rack

The dinghy rack, located north of the race committee storage building, is only for members with moorings. One boat per mooring is permitted on that rack.

 

Summer Car Parking Area - Winter Storage

The Club allows the use of the area along the North side of the road between the boat park and meadow, which is designated as “car parking” during the sailing season, to be used for winter storage. Due to the relatively firmer ground, compared to the meadow, this area is used primarily for larger boats that are kept on jack stands.

 

There are no specific location assignments. The Flag Lt. Grounds maintains a map or the locations that have previously been used by members for boat storage, but as previously described, storage spots may be reassigned.

 

During the sailing season, all storage boxes, jack stands, and other member-owned equipment, must be moved to the tree line, to allow for car parking. Empty trailers must be moved to the meadow area.

 

“Project boats”, and other boats that will not be used during the sailing season, must be moved to the meadow area.

Mooring Specifications

 

Ground Tackle

Anchor - The water depth in the mooring area ranges from one or two feet along the shore (Row One) to eight or nine feet at the outer edge (Row Six). For the heavier, deeper draft boats such the Ensign and O'Day 22 and 23 in the outer rows, a 125/150 pound mushroom anchor is required. For lighter boats with a retractable keel such as the Mariner, a 75 pound mushroom anchor should be adequate. For shallow water boats in Rows One and Two, a mushroom anchor might not be practical and a heavy flat weight may be substituted for a mushroom anchor provided it has adequate holding power for the boat.

 

Chain - Galvanized chain about twice or two and a half times the water depth should be used. A 5/16 inch link is a commonly used size. An ideal arrangement is to use a heavy chain attached to the mushroom with a galvanized shackle for half the length, and a lighter chain joined to the heavy chain with a shackle and swivel for the other half. This is done so that the mooring float does not have to support an excessive amount of weight.

 

Buoys - There are in general, two types of mooring buoys. The Taylor T3C Buoy allows the chain to pass through the buoy so that the mooring pennant from the boat can be attached directly to the chain. The other style mooring buoy has a steel loop at the top and the bottom for attaching the chain and pennant. With this type of buoy, it is important to attach the chain to the bottom loop, and attach the pennant directly to the chain, not to the top loop of the buoy. (The buoy can pull apart). The top loop can be used to attach a dinghy when out for a sail.

 

Pennant (or Pendant) - The pennant attaches the boat to the chain. Three strand nylon should be used because its elasticity allows it to act as a shock absorber. The length should be about two and a half times the freeboard and the diameter as large as practical so it can fit through bow chocks and around a bow cleat. Commonly used sizes are 1/2 inch and 5/8 inch.

 

Maintenance

It is highly recommended that mushroom anchors and related gear be removed each fall. This gives the member an opportunity to inspect the ground tackle for wear and deterioration. It also eliminates the possibility of movement from the ice and the sometimes unsuccessful search for the mooring in the Spring. Several mooring field members have constructed a device to pull the moorings utilizing the small 13 foot Whaler. Note: Additional information and illustrations of mooring gear can be viewed on the Ensign Fleet article on the subject, HERE.

 

SLSC Alcohol Policy

 

1. SLSC shall comply with state liquor laws of New York as they relate to the purchase, service, consumption and storage of alcohol at the club.
2. It is the policy of the Club that the responsibility for the conduct of each member, his or her family and guests, in all matters including the provision, storage and consumption of alcoholic beverages on SLSC premises, lies with the individual member and that responsibility is not, and cannot be, assumed by SLSC. No alcoholic beverages should be consumed by or served to anyone who appears to be intoxicated.
3. No one under the age of 21 will be served or may consume alcoholic beverages of any kind. There will be no exceptions and all members have the obligation to intercede should they observe this to occur. Appropriate identification may be required.
4. SLSC members may bring beer, wine or liquor onto SLSC premises, and store it in an SLSC refrigerator while they are there. The alcohol should be consumed or removed by that member and guests and not left unattended at SLSC when they depart.
5. When alcohol is to be provided in conjunction with an SLSC event (regattas, social events) someone associated with the event must be designated beforehand as the "event alcohol officer" to ensure compliance with our regulations. He or she should secure the alcohol (lock the keg, remove the wine, etc) at a reasonable time at the end of the evening or event. An open keg or bottles of alcohol should never be left unattended and it is the responsibility of the designated alcohol officer to ensure that that doesn't happen.
6. Members and their guests using the house with the approval of the Flag Lieutenant House must adhere to these regulations at all times.
7. The club has designated an "SLSC Alcohol Officer" to oversee these provisions and make any recommendations for adjustments to the Board.

 

Financial Aspects of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club

The Saratoga Lake Sailing Club was established in 1957 and its certificate of incorporation was filed by the Department of State on April 8, 1960. The New York State Certificate of Type of Not-For-Profit Corporation certifies that the club is a Type A not-for-profit corporation. The Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service has issued a determination that SLSC is exempt from Federal income tax as a 501(c)(7) social and recreation club While we enjoy exemption from federal and state income taxes, the club is required to collect and pay New York State sales tax, and gifts to the club are not tax deductible items for the donor.

 

The principle financial asset of the Club is the property that is owned by the Club consisting of 73.9 acres with approximately 1,000 feet of waterfront on the west side of Saratoga Lake at Manning Cove. The property, originally known as the Manning Estate, was purchased in 1972 from the Melander family and now includes the clubhouse, several out-buildings, and a sizable wetlands buffer on the north boundary of the club.

 

The principle source of income that supports the operations of the Club is the annual dues paid by the members. The Club has no full time employees and general facility chores such as placing and removing docks each year and grounds clean-up are performed by the members.

 

Periodically there may be funding requirements which may exceed our ability to cover on a current cash basis. In 2008 the Club established a $75,000 line of credit with the Adirondack Trust Company of Saratoga Springs. The club has demonstrated a financial performance track record that it can manage a debt service at that level and still generate operating surpluses for the more routine general maintenance needs of the club. A line of credit gives us more financial flexibility than a traditional mortgage. Funds are borrowed only as and when needed to fund specific projects as approved by the membership.

 

The only debt on the club’s balance sheet are the non-interest bearing $300 equity bonds required of all members that are refundable upon termination of membership. This bond is payable the second year of membership at the time of membership renewal. Repayment of the full bond value following resignation will be made upon written request to the Treasurer within two years of resignation.

 

Each year prior to March 1 members will receive a Dues Notice and Membership Renewal form. Annual dues are payable in full by April 15. Each member will calculate his or her unique required remittance according to the fee schedule in the notice and the selected use of club services such as boat storage options. New York Sales tax has been included in the fee schedule where applicable. Without payment by April 15, membership terminates and a reinstatement fee will be charged.

 

Members have two opportunities to actively participate in the financial life of the Saratoga Lake Sailing Club. At the Annual Meeting of SLSC each December the Treasurer reports on the income and expense activities of the club and how the actual results compare to the budget projections. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions and gain understanding relating to the financing of club operations. In February of each year a Budget Meeting is held at which time the Treasurer presents the proposed income and expense budget for the coming year. The budget is developed by a budget committee composed of the Treasurer and not less than three club members. It is reviewed and accepted by the Executive Board, and presented to the membership at the Budget Meeting for discussion, review, and approval by the membership.

 

Financial information such as income and expense statements, balance sheets, and cash flow analysis are available to any member by a request to the Treasurer.

 

Bruce Blackie, Treasurer

December 2011