The directory should be in everyone’s hands by this time; if not, please call Headquarters to confirm your mailing address. It contains more than the contact information for other members. Take the time to browse through the listings for Marque clubs and museums. Our yellow pages contain ads for goods and services related to the interests of classic boaters. I encourage you to browse though the listings and support those who support ACBS and help us keep the cost of publishing down. There is also a listing of Ships Store items in the back; it may provide you with ideas or reminders of ACBS items you’ve seen in back issues of the ACBS Rudder. Inserted loosely into the book are your 2003 membership sticker, West Marine discount coupon and Annual Meeting Registration.
 

Has your own listing in the Directory changed already? Now is the time to call, email or write us at Headquarters with the updates. This will provide you the opportunity to proof the data for technical correctness rather than general changes on next year’s renewal.
 

Boat show season is upon us! This is an important membership growth time. Come Aboard brochures are available at no cost from Headquarters. If there is a gate fee or ships store for your show, have the brochures (filled out with your own chapter info) readily available with samples of the Rudder and directory for viewing. Provide the opportunity to join immediately. Our members are fun and sociable; let others know and invite them to join us.
 

Registration forms for the Annual Meeting are in this issue of the ACBS Rudder, as an insert in the directory and also on the web. You’ve heard about last year’s event in Coeur d’Alene. Shortly afterward, the Annual Meeting committee did a survey on how to improve the event. They are working to incorporate your ideas. This year’s host city, Ottawa, is a wonderful city with Old World charm. You’re encouraged to treat the meeting as a vacation and to enjoy your favorite activities. Daily activities are planned, and you can sign up for them each day. These include: the National Gallery of Canada, a Fall Foliage tour on the Wakefield steam train and an Ottawa city tour via double-decker bus. How about shopping at Byward Market or a shop tour? So many things to do! Please join us and participate in this wonderful hobby and enchanting city.