Introduction
This is your official Membership Handbook which was designed to help ease you into Lake Yosemite Sailing Association (LYSA) life.  It is our wish that your membership be a rewarding and enriching experience.  If you have any questions, please feel free to call on any member of the Executive Board.

Tips for your Successful Membership
Possess a positive attitude, and make a commitment to the success of the Association and its members.
Participate enthusiastically and remember that the benefits derived from membership are directly related to participation.
Attend meetings on a regular basis.
Help build a strong, diverse Association by introducing other sailing enthusiasts in the community to the Association.
Be a friend to all members and provide a supportive system of caring and sharing.
Use Rotary International's “4-Way Test” to ensure good ethics and behavior.

Four-Way Test
Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Closing Summary
To make the most of your membership, get acquainted with other members, find a mentor - be a mentor, learn new and enhance present skills by participating in activities, and share in our decision-making and planning processes by attending meetings.
We want your membership to be one of the best things that has ever happened to you.
Sincerely,
The Executive Board
Bylaws
Article I.  Name
The name of this organization is and shall continue to be Lake Yosemite Sailing Association.

Article II.  Location
The Headquarters of this Association shall be addressStreet5620 N Lake Road, placePlaceTypeLake PlaceNameYosemite PlaceTypePark, placeCityMerced.  Mailing address is addressStreetPO Box 3994, CityMerced, StateCalifornia, PostalCode95344.

Article III.  Duration
Established in 1988 and incorporated in 2000.  The duration of this nonprofit Association shall be perpetual.

Article IV.  placeMission Statement
The mission of Lake Yosemite Sailing Association, a family-oriented association, is to bring together sailing enthusiasts from the community and to provide opportunities for them to cruise, race, travel, and socialize.

Article V.  Structure
This Association shall be a nonpartisan, nonsectarian, nonprofit corporation whose members shall have the sole right to govern and control all of its activities through the Executive Board.  The Officers of the Association shall be those provided for in these bylaws.

Article VI.  Membership
Section 1.
Membership in this Association shall be subject to the provisions of these bylaws.  Any individual or family, by accepting membership in the Association, does thereby agree to abide by all the provisions of the bylaws, rules, procedures, and policies of the Association.
Section 2.
Membership in the Association shall be of one classification:  Member - A member (individual or family) in good standing is entitled to participate in the activities of the Association and to receive all benefits accruing from dues that are paid in full.
Section 3.
The annual dues for membership in the Association shall be established by the Executive Board of the Association and are payable in advance.  Annual dues include a subscription to Light Air, the Association's official newsletter, PICYA membership, and a Membership Handbook.
Section 4.
Any member whose annual dues are current shall be considered a member in good standing, and shall be eligible to participate in the privileges and benefits of the Association.
Section 5.
Any member who does not pay the annual dues by March 1st shall at such time be considered an inactive member, and shall not be eligible to participate in the privileges and benefits of the Association.  Membership shall be restored upon payment of annual dues during a two (2) year grace period; after which the inactive member must pay the annual membership fee and the current initiation fee.

Article VII.  Executive Board
Section 1.
The Executive Board of the Association shall consist of nine officers as set forth in Article VIII of these bylaws.
Section 2.
The Executive Board of the Association shall govern and control the affairs, policies, and business of the Association.  The Executive Board shall have the power to employ or contract for a service, membership procurement, or managing agent for the purpose of serving the Association and its members.  The Executive Board may approve non-budgeted expenditures up tot $300.00 without the approval of the membership.  Non-budgeted requirements that exceed $300.00 require general membership approval.
Section 3.
A majority of the duly elected and qualified Executive Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any regular or special meeting.
Section 4.
Any member shall have the right to make recommendations and proposals for the betterment of the Association.  Members must bring any recommendations, proposals, complaints, concerns, or grievances to the Executive Board.  If the Board does not act on the matter within sixty (60) days then the member may present the matter at the next general membership meeting.

Article VIII.  Officers
Section 1.
The nine Officers of the Association shall consist of Commodore, Vice Commodore, Past Commodore, Secretary, Treasurer, Port Captain, House Captain, Racing Captain, and Cruising and Social Captain.
Section 2.
Eligibility requirements for office are that a candidate shall be a member of unquestioned personal and professional integrity and reputation, willing and able to uphold the standards of the Association by act and deed for the benefit of the entire organization and the greatest good of all members possible.
Section 3.
The election of Officers shall be by secret ballot cast by the members in good standing in attendance at the Annual End-of-Season Party.  Members in good standing and unable to attend may vote by absentee ballot.  Absentee ballots may be obtained by contacting the Commodore.  Absentee ballots will be available not later than fourteen (14) days prior to the election and must be received prior to the vote at the End-of-Season Party.
Section 4.
The Officers of the Association shall each serve a term of one (1) year.  In the event a vacancy occurs in any office of the Association, the Executive Board shall elect a member who is qualified for the office to serve the remainder of the term.
Section 5.
The Executive Board shall from time to time prepare description of duties and responsibilities of the Officers.  To be qualified for, and in order to continue serving in the office, all officers must conduct themselves in accordance with the duties and responsibilities in effect when elected.
A two-thirds (2/3) affirmative vote of the Executive Board, excluding the
officer not in compliance, may remove from office or otherwise censure any Officer who fails to meet the aforementioned duties and responsibilities.
Section 6.
The duties of the respective Officers shall be:
Commodore - The commodore is the authorized leader of the Association.  Maintains unity and harmony within the Association and directs officers, committees, and members toward common goals.  Plans yearly projects, activities, and goals for the Association with the officers.  Ensures officer and committee chairman training through orientation and sharing.  Prepares agendas and presides at all meetings.  Conveys information to the membership. Recognizes the efforts of all members.  Serves as Association ambassador and spokesperson to the community.
Vice-Commodore - The vice commodore is expected to serve for three years (the first year as vice commodore, second year as commodore, and third year as past commodore).  Vice commodore is the Association membership ambassador encouraging membership and greeting and welcoming new member prospects.  Vice commodore is also education  coordinator, promoting the development of member sailing skills.  As the “commodore in training”, the responsibilities include performing as primary aide to the commodore and assuming all duties and responsibilities in his/her absence.  Responsible for the production and sale of LYSA merchandise.
Past Commodore - Commodore from the previous year shall serve as past commodore, participating in all meetings and activities.  Duties are primarily advising and offering suggestions and input based on prior leadership experience in the Association.
Secretary - The secretary is the transcriber of the meetings and correspondence. Provides a summary of meeting minutes to the membership in newsletter.  Ensures the production and distribution of monthly newsletter, Light Air, and the Membership Handbook.
Treasurer - The treasurer is responsible for handling all money transactions and is custodian of the financial records.  Maintains a roster of members. Advises the Executive Board regarding finances and budget matters.  Tracks accounts receivable and payable and provides monthly reports.
Port Captain - Facilities coordinator overseeing operation and maintenance of club facilities on water (docks, slips, moorings, and equipment), manages slip rentals and waiting lists, and ensures all rules and policies are enforced.
House Captain - Clubhouse coordinator overseeing the operation and maintenance of club facilities located on the beach (house, garages, yard, and equipment), manages dry storage rentals and waiting lists, and ensures all rules and policies are enforced.  Responsible for procuring and storing supplies, and coordinating delivery to and from functions.
Racing Captain - Plans racing activities.  Coordinates the setting of the buoys and marks, running races, and keeping score.  Responsible for procuring necessary race equipment and storing and coordinating delivery to and from races.  At the end of season tallies scores and coordinates the making of trophies.  At the End-of-Season Party presents race awards and recognitions.
Cruising & Social Captain - Responsible for planning and organizing trips and social events.  Coordinates reservations and itinerary for trips.  Plans the time, place, reservations, food, and other special arrangements needed for meetings, trips, and social events.  Social events include the Spring Kick-Off (opening day) in May, monthly last weekend Fun Sail Parties during summer months, End-of-Season Party in October, and Holiday Party in December.
Section 7.
All officers of the Executive Board are expected to write and submit a monthly report or article for the newsletter.  All Board officers shall serve as committee members fo all fundraising activities (including Regatta and Open House) as appointed by the Commodore.

Article IX.  Financial Liability
Neither the Association nor any agent or representative of the Association shall be liable or responsible for the financial obligations of members.

Article X.  Amendment of Bylaws
Bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the membership present at a regular meeting (excluding bylaws that pertain to budget matters such as membership dues, rental fees, or any other fees paid by members, which can only be changed with budget approval at the November general membership meeting for the next calendar year).  Each membership (individual or family) is entitled to one vote.  These amended bylaws or amendments thereto shall become effective immediately upon their adoption and made available to all members.
Article XI.  Parliamentary Authority
The current edition of Robert's Rules of Order shall be the parliamentary authority for all matters of procedure not specifically covered by the bylaws, rules, procedures and policies of the Association.
Article XII.  Meetings
Regular business meetings shall be the second Tuesday of each month, and Executive Board meetings shall be the first Tuesday of the month.  Members shall be notified in advance of the time and place of each meeting.
Article XIII.  Budget
Section 1.
Treasurer is authorized to disburse funds up to the approved budgeted amount, providing the expenditure was itemized in the approved budget.
Section 2.
Treasurer shall provide a detailed financial report to the Board at the October Board meeting.  The report will show revenue and expenses for the past two (2) years as a minimum, the current year-to-date, and estimated amounts for the next calendar year.
Section 3.
At the November Board meeting, the Board will review, evaluate, and finalize the budget for the next calendar year and submit this budget to the general membership for approval.
Section 4.
Membership dues, rental fees, and any other fees paid by members will be based on budget requirements for the next calendar year.
Section 5.
The budget shall be approved by a majority vote of the members present at the November general membership meeting.  This budget shall become effective on January First (1st) of the next year.
Article XIV.  Behavior
Section 1.
The following definition of misconduct applies to the conduct of any member while at the Association's facilities or while attending any social or sailing event.  Misconduct is defined as using abusive language or acting in a threatening manner and conduct which brings discredit to the Association or is contrary to the Association's mission statement.
Section 2.
Any member who witnesses or is a victim of misconduct may voice a complaint at an Executive Board meeting.  Evidence of the misconduct may be presented at the time the complaint is brought before the Board.  Following the complaint, the member accused of the misconduct shall have the opportunity to speak and present evidence in his or her defense.
Section 3.
Immediately after hearing from complainant and defendant, the Board will recess and reconvene in a Closed Door Executive Session to make a decision regarding the complaint.  The Board may decide on one of the following options:
Take no action.
A verbal censure accompanied by a ninety (90) day probation period.  If the censured member is accused of misconduct (following the procedures in Section 2) during the probationary period, and the Board upholds the complaint, the member will be automatically expelled.
A sixty (60) day suspension from the Association's facilities (excluding the use of the dock) and all Association events and activities.  The suspended member shall surrender his or her keys to the commodore for the sixty (60) day period.
Expulsion from the Association.  The member shall be allowed to reapply for membership after two (2) years.  Renewal shall be granted if a majority of the sitting Board members approve.
Past Commodores
1988 ……………………Eric Hadley
1989 ……………….…...Eric Hadley
1990 ……………………Eric Hadley
1991 ……………………Eric Hadley
1992 ……………………Eric Hadley
1993 …Dwight Wigley/ Tim Jantzen
1994 …Eric Hadley/ Jimmy Schriber
1995 ………………...Paul Eggleston
1996 ………………...Paul Eggleston
1997 …………………Amy Boehme
1998 ………………………Jay Sousa
1999 …………………...John Lenker
2000 ………………..……...Ed Dietz
2001 ……………….……..Ed Green
2002 …….……..Dennis Wainwright
2003 ……………..……..Wes Unruh
2004 ……………….……..Jay Sousa
2005 ………Brigitte Bowers-Loeffler
2006 ………..………….Tom Cooke
2007 ………………….Jerry Johnson
2008 …………………..Mike Strealy
2009 ………….Debora Dietz-Neves
2010 ……………….…..Scott Foster
2011 ……………….Craig Anderson

Membership Dues
A one-time initiation fee of $75.00 for new members is payable with first year annual dues.  Annual dues are $120.00 a year payable January 1st and prorated for new members only.

Rental Rates
Slips
     Mooring Buoy ……………………………………………… $80 per year
     Small (less than 8 feet in width) …………………………… $80 per year
     Large (more than 8 feet in width) …………………………. $95 per year
     Extra-wide and Floating Dock Slips ……………………… $105 per year
Dry Sailing and Winter Storage
Limited to boats 18 feet in length or less and must be seaworthy and clean.  No tarps are allowed.
Summer (April-September) ………………………………………… $180
Winter (October-March) …………………………………………… $100

Other Fees
Replacement Keys …………………………………………………………………. $5.00

Racing Policies
Racing Season will commence with a Kick-Off the first weekend in May, and continue every Thursday evening.  No official points will be counted until the first Thursday following Kick-Off weekend.  All races will be no-call races.  However, if inclement weather prevails, racing officer has latitude to call for a vote (one vote per boat).  Check the website or with the Racing Captain for the summer schedule.
Clubhouse Rules & Policies
These rules are designed to give the greatest enjoyment and pleasure to club members.  Observance by all members and guests is requested.  All matters pertaining to the clubhouse should be directed to the House Captain
A key will be issued to each adult member upon their request.
Clubhouse is available to members at any time.  The last member to leave will make certain that all lights have been turned off and windows and doors are locked securely.
Any member wishing to use the clubhouse for a function must make prior arrangements with the House Captain.
Any member wishing to rent dry sailing or winter storage space in front of the house must make prior arrangements with the House Captain.
The sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited by our insurance carrier and California State Law.
Smoking in the clubhouse is prohibited by California State Law.
Guests of any member are requested to sign the guest book.
A member of a reciprocating yacht club may be extended privileges of the club after being properly signed into the guest book.
Children under twelve years of age shall be accompanied by an adult while in the clubhouse, and there shall be no romping about.
Club property lost or destroyed by a member, family member, or a guest must be replaced or paid for by the member.
No personal gear or equipment shall be stored in the clubhouse.
Proposed gifts, decorations, or furnishings intended for the clubhouse shall be approved by the Executive Board before acceptance.
Any changes or additions to the clubhouse must be approved by the Executive Board.  Any structural changes must include a conceptual drawing and estimated cost.
Do not expect others to clean up after you.  Cleaning up the clubhouse including restroom, should be done by everyone.  All trash should be placed in the proper outside receptacle.  All tables and chairs should be wiped down after each use.
No skateboarding within the club premises.
All club members are expected to be courteous, considerate and respectful of all other members and guests.
Dock Rules & Policies
These rules and guidelines are designed to provide the greatest degree of safety and enjoyment to members and guests.  All matters pertaining to the docks should be directed to the Port Captain.
Recreational swimming around docks is prohibited.  This includes floating on air mattresses or similar devices.  There is obvious danger with boat traffic.
No dinghies or any other equipment is to be left on or stored on the docks.
Dock hoses are to be rolled up after using.
No running on docks.
Adult supervision of children is always required. It is requested that while younger children are on the docks they wear a PFD.
In order to reduce the risk of bodily injury and the deterioration of docks, beginning January 1, 2001, no new carpeting of any kind may be installed anywhere on the docks.  Existing carpeting installed on the docks may remain as long as it is in good condition.  Existing carpeting deemed worn out or in poor condition must be removed and may not be replaced.
Any changes or additions to the docks must be approved by the Executive Board.  Any structural changes need a conceptual drawing and estimated cost.
Slip rentals are seasonal and boats and personal property must be removed from the premises no later than the water level reduction date determined by MID.
To reduce the risk of bodily injury, no hardware of any kind (cleats, etc.) may be installed on the main walkways of the dock.
Trailers with or without boats are not allowed to be stored overnight in the parking areas at placePlaceTypeLake PlaceNameYosemite.
Any boat owner whose boat damages the docks will be liable for all repairs.