(Ulrich Neumann) wrote in message . com...
Hi all,

I need your input on an issue that has led to an ongoing, heated
debate ever since my son joined our soaring club at age 14. He begun
taking lessons and soloed during a youth soaring camp organized by
another club this summer. A small but vocal group of members are
stricktly against youth- and family memberships. Kids under 18 are
considered a liability, a hazard to themself during the operation and
just not desirable members in their minds. All kinds of half-baked
legalities are being cited i.e. that the club could get dragged down
finacially if a minor would get hurt and a suit be filed by the
parents, etc. I can't shake the impression that these guys would like
to have a 'good 'ol boy county club with planes'! (Heck, the golf
carts are already there!)

Therefore my questions: Does your club have a youth/family membership
category with reduced dues and/or waived initiation fees? Does your
club have a youth program? Have there ever been any legal/insurance
issues with minor members in your club? Any input is appreciated. (you
may reply privately, if you don't want to discuss this on the net)

Ulrich Neumann

Reply:
One of the purposes stated in our club(Valley Soaring Club- Middletown
NY) is to provide opportunities to soar for youth.
We strongly support this activity. Cost to learn is a bit less than
1/2 of regular members which covers variable costs but does not
contribute to fixed costs. This works for us.
Jr's have a 1-26 provided that costs $0 per hour after they qualify to
fly it. They pay for tows.
Jr's are expected to do extra to help in operations.
We've been doing this for more than 25 years with excellent results.
The kids take the sport seriously and show the same good judgement as
the adults around them.
Have met your son and expect he should do well. He needs to show he is
serious and has the discipline to be a safe contributor to the club.
Tell the old farts to watch how well a young person can do with a
little help.
I've NEVER seen a bad kid at the airport.
Contact me privately if I can be of more help.
UH