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Dear Sail America Members: It is hard to believe that it was nine years ago that I first joined the Sail America Board of Directors. John Peterson of Hunter cornered me at the exhibitor’s party during Strictly Sail Pacific and basically told me it was my duty to serve. Although I had to be kick-started, these nine years have been magical in many ways. Many of us have a very narrow view of the industry, especially in these trying economic times when our own businesses take priority over all else. But getting involved in Sail America has certainly broadened my vision and better prepared me for every aspect of my duties here at Island Packet Yachts. Working shoulder-to-shoulder with some of the best and brightest talents from every segment of the industry -- whether finding solutions to immediate obstacles or strategically planning for the future -- has given me a depth of experience that I would not have gained otherwise. It has been a privilege and an honor to serve with over 25 fellow board members during my tenure. Zig Ziglar and Brian Tracy both advise us that to be successful, you must first align yourself with successful people. By getting involved with Sail America -- and there are several opportunities to do just that -- you can enhance your own future success. One of the best ways is to sign up to serve on one of the many SA committees, covering topics like marketing, boat shows or association/membership issues. These committees are invaluable to Sail America’s success and the recommendations they make to the board weigh heavily in the many decisions that must be made each year. These groups typically meet by conference call a few times per year. Participants gain invaluable experience in both planning and problem solving, as well as learning a broader understanding of the variety of interests and concerns within the sailing fraternity. I invite and encourage you to get involved! From there, a position on the board itself -- whether as an officer, or not -- will give back ten times more than you can give, just because of the extraordinary depth of talent, enthusiasm and knowledge of the folks who volunteer their time in this capacity. The board members I have had the privilege to work with reads like an all-star roster of the sailing industry; rather than slight anyone, I won’t drop one name here, but I can assure you that the opportunity to be involved with a group of this high caliber, to exchange ideas and contribute solutions within a brain trust of the best and brightest in the industry, is an experience I’ll not soon forget. I’ve been thanked many times for my contributions as I retire from the board; I would like to, in turn, thank each and every committee and board member I have ever worked with for their many contributions to my better understanding and appreciation of the marine industry. Best Regards,  |
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