wrote:
Site layout aside... where is the "join here" functionality???

We are trying to grow the sport yet this is a totally backwards step
in
increasing membership.

Al


The one and only thing that stands in the way of the SSA having a great
website is money. Whether or not the money is available to be directed
towards the website, I have no idea. I happen to be the member services
director for a large association located in D.C. The moaning and
groaning I often hear from SSA members about the SSA's new website is
similar to what I have found to be the case for many associations in
general. Associations seem to be behind the curve a bit in website
technology usage. My observations seem to point to lack of
appropriation of funds for whatever reason, and there may be many
reasons. In the SSA's case, we all know they aren't exactly rolling in
dough; jeez, they have to solicit for donations just to put an adequate
roof over their head - literally.

What they don't realize perhaps is how important the website has become
to the member/organization relationship. What used to be a "mailbox"
relationship has evolved to a more dynamic, real-time, virtual
relationship. My point to all this is that I too believe we should
excercise patience, and restrain ourselves from unproductive negetivity
concerning "our" association. If we want the SSA to have a first-class
website - if not world-class - it's going to take a substantial
investment, not only in their website technology, but probably in
upgrading their association management/membership database as well. I
wonder if the membership would be willing to support a fund for such a
thing?

In the meantime, as SSA members, let's continue promote soaring and SSA
membership as best we can whenever we can. Idea: If you're a club
member with access to a two-seat training craft, be sure to offer your
neighbors' young teen-age kids a discovery ride this year.
Happy soaring.

Bob Gould