LVHB/AHBA Member Vote

[BADFISH II]

(I think their may be a glitch in the voting, so if you can't vote, please just post yeah or neah)

Most of you know me to some extent by now, but for those who don't I'll give you the quick low down then pose the question.

I started LVHB after moving around and then finally here to LV in Feb. of this year. Â*My fiance and I didn't really know a soul, but we both love boating (part of the reason we moved to LV). Â*One thing we both agree on this that we've met so many super cool people on the lakes over the last few years - more than any other place or activity. Â*I know a little about putting together a website, but not much so I enlisted Brainlabor (http://www.brainlabor.com) (some friends of mine from CA) and put a few bucks into getting this website going - primarily for the purpose of sharing information and hooking up with you all on the lake for fun.

We've met several of you now and our theory holds true - everyone we've met is and has been super cool and we've had a great time so far this boating season with you. Â*For those we haven't met yet we're looking forward to it.

I only want to grow LVHB further and have more events and more members because it's a ton of fun for us. Â*I've been talking with Jim, Mike, and Art from American Hot Boats American Hot Boats (http://www.americanhotboats.com) - they're great guys. Â*They started AHBA for the same reasons I started LVHB. Â*They'd like us to be a part of their organization.

Currently they are kind of the "mothership" organization with three chapters, So. Cal Hot Boats, Arizona Hot Boats, and New Mexico Hot Boats. Â*It sounds like Utah Hot Boats and possibly others like No. Cal. Hot Boats and a group from Texas are going to be joining also.

THE BENEFITS: They have huge sponsors like Chevy and Auto Trader - even Teague Marine. Â*These sponsors make it possible for the big events. Â*In conjunction with Chris at SoCalHotBoats this last weekend they even had a group event at Elsinore with food and other stuff going on - put on by AHBA. Â*You get quarterly color newsletters, poker runs, a shirt, a sticker, other non-boating events out of season, coverage in Hot Boat Mag, more organization, and some other fringe benefits like a little clout that goes with the group. Â*I'd also retain control of the website (with those exceptions) and we'd still be a separate LVHB group.

THE NEGATIVES: Not too many. Â*The biggest one (which really isn't that big of a deal) would be the riskee avatars would have to go. Â*No nudity whatsoever on the forum can be posted (the hottie gallery is fine, bikini's are good http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif , just no nudity or riskee stuff). Â*Membership is 40$ a year, but you get the runs, the shirt, a sticker, the newsletter and the other benefits.

They have a good group going of 600 boats now (not people, but boats) which is how they get the sponsorship and put on the events. Â*AHBA is very family oriented and family friendly (which is why the website would have to change slightly if you vote yes and it's accepted). Â*They even do boat shows and trailering classes for women (something I need Ms. LM1 to do) taught by women.

Do we need to join? No, we don't. Â*We can grow this on our own, but probably not as fast or as good. Â*Should we join? Â*I like the idea, but that's for you to decide. Â*They'll start a chapter up here in LV either way, but if the majority of you say "No", then we'll keep things how they are.

Well, this is about long enough. Â*I started LVHB for all of you (even our CA, CO, UT, and AZ members) so I'm not going to make this decision without your voices being heard. Â*We're a new group, but growing quickly. Â*We'll grow even quicker if we join AHBA. Â*

One last word. Â*I know many of you don't live here in LV but I'd like your votes also. Â*We all boat on the same lakes and we've already hooked up with a few of you out there, so I consider all of you part of LVHB whether you live here or not.

Thanks for reading this, and happy (and SAFE) boating!

Greg
President
Las Vegas Hot Boats

[STV_Keith]

Hey Greg. One thing I'll say about big organizations is that the individuals fall through the cracks. I've seen a local car club here in Vegas that used to be a tight-knit bunch of guys. They started letting anyone with this certain type of car join and now half the guys don't know the other half...kinda dilutes the closeness/comraderie of the group.

In the end, I'll be with the club wether you join or not, but since anyone can get in on their poker runs and events, I doesn't seem like a big deal - plus our avatars are cool! http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[Havasu Dreamin]

Not really sure. I'm pretty sure it will help in terms of organizing activities and securing sponsors but "the little things" may get lost. Â*http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/huh.gif

[waterndog]

Hey why does thing tell me I voted already ? All I did was click to read the thread then it tells me I voted UH !! I still want to vote. http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif

[BADFISH II]

that's strange, try logging out and logging back in and see if that works

[waterndog]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (Lakemead1 @ June 10 2002, 10:54 am)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">that's strange, try logging out and logging back in and see if that works[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Its still the same. I kinda have the same feelings as STV_K & HD. I don't know a whole lot about AHBA I just know that they do the poker runs.

[BADFISH II]

this is great feedback. like I said, we do NOT have to join their organization. There are positives and negatives. I just need to know what all of you want, because that will be my decision.

I'm sure they'll start a club here either way. My biggest concern is keeping our LVHB together, and if joining would cause some of you not to be a part any longer, than the answer would be no, but I do want our group to be a great club, and I'll certainly need all of your help to spread the word and keep it growing.

I'll wait for more feedback and we'll see where we stand.

[digginfordollars]

I think there's something to be said for doing it on your own. LM1, you've done a great job with this website. I think LVHB will grow just fine without a mother ship.

[sneekee]

it seems to me that we really don't gain a whole lot by joining. i with the rest, i think we can do without for now.

I feel the same way as most of you. What I like most about this site is that it is not too big and seems very personal. While it makes sense to continue to grow the organization, I think the way and speed in which it has been growing has been very healthy. I personally don't think we need to join AHBA to continue the quality growth of Las Vegas Hotboats.

Keep up the good work Greg!
O1

[boatless]

Ok, I hear what everyone is saying, so let me get my two cents in. The local chapters won¡¦t lose any identity. Its still the same group of people, you¡¦re just attracting more people to the sport we all love. All the local events will still be handled by LM1, with more coordination on proven past events and processes. The message boards and the reason for the website was to meet more people, no change. With all the forced changes by state and federal governments to the boating community we need a voice, AHBA is becoming that voice in our community. Your membership will help us influence thous government decisions.

Benefits will increase:
$40 membership per year
„h This helps cover LM1 website costs (he pays for it now).
„h 1 member shirt
„h Window decal for your tow rig
„h Quarterly newsletter the ¡§Launch Ramp¡¨
„h More events ¡V we are shooting for one or two a month, poker runs, safety courses, Powell trips etc¡K.
„h www.lakeracer.com ¡V merchandise store discounts, there isn¡¦t much there but its growing
„h $50 off each HeatWave Poker Run at Lake Havasu, AZ
„h Gas & room discounts at hotels for all AHBA events
„h National advertising and sponsorship
Now if that isn¡¦t enough, you still get the web page and message board and now a larger audience for classified advertising for your boat and parts for being a member.

Any changes in thinking?

Mike Campbell
AHBA Treasurer - HBR
p.s. I did not vote... I wanted to though. http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[RUNNIN A FEVER]

I have experienced first hand the "grow too fast" pitfall. I personally enjoy the individuality of a close network of dedicated individuals. Neigh. (for now)

PS. Lakemead1 saw your boat in the parking lot of Island Inn this weekend.

[STV_Keith]

At this point, I don't think we need to join. That's not to say that we couldn't join in 6 months, a year or whatever...I assume it will still be open in the future.

I think that most of the people here are saying the same thing. If anything though, this thread and direction can be watched more closely in the future, and we can revisit this in the future. I, for one, wasn't even aware of the organization until LM1 brought it up. I will watch what they do and who is involved in the future and perhaps my mind will change.

Time will tell.

[BADFISH II]

Great info Mike, maybe I should have expressed that more clearly.

Please keep the posts/votes coming. I'm waiting for a couple of our more active members to chime in (I know at least two of them are out of town).

Thanks everyone for participating.

[Havasu Dreamin]

I can say that I met and spoke with Boatless/Mike at the LA Boat Show and do belong to the AHBA already as well as Las Vegas Hot Boats and So Cal Hot Boats. So, maybe I'm talking out of both of sides of my mouth here, I don't know.

I do know that Mike and Craig/C2 were real nice guys to talk with and took their time to speak with me about the whole deal. that being said, I think STVKeith said it best, it may not be something that needs to be done now. However, something can be said for still maintaining local control over the club, but getting the marketing arm and past experinces of the AHBA staff.

[BADFISH II]

so HD, that being said and knowing that we would retain control of our local club, is your opinion to join, not join, or to wait a little longer.

[Havasu Dreamin]

I think the key is maintaining local control. If that is something that will be allowed, I don't really see a problem with it.

Don't get me wrong, I would still have concerns. What type of growth are they looking to have with Las Vegas Hot Boats? Do they even know? How is this growth going to be accomplished? Is it just by word of mouth, definitely more manageable, or some other way?? I know they already have members in AHBA from Nevada, do they automatically become members of Las Vegas Hot Boats? How much control do they really have over the Las Vegas Chapter if you/we decide to join?? Do you have to run every thing by the "powers that be" before doing anything?? What about a person like me?? As I said, I'm in all 3!?!?!?!?!?!?!

I know I'm rambling and it probably is not much help, but these are the things I would want to know.

[digginfordollars]

I still think we should keep it local for awhile. As far as costs for the website, I will be more than willing to pony up to help defray costs as I'm sure most others would also.

[BADFISH II]

I appreciate that d4$, but that's not necessary. When I sell a map here and there, then a hat or two, and a few shirts it helps. The hats cost me 152$ for 12, but that included a setup fee, so I was going to charge 15$ plus 2.50 s&h, then the shirts are between 9 and 10$ a piece, so I'll charge 15$ plus 2.50 s&h for those too. That way I make a couple bucks back to cover costs. Hopefully I'll need to order more hats soon to lower that cost.

[OutCole'd]

I really don't see how this would affect us much. It seems the more people on the site the better. As long as the control still stays local I think it could be a good thing, but I agree that we should wait a while and see if it is something that will help out or not, now that we all know they exist.

[paulinator]

I am probably one of the least vocal people on the site and spend most of my time in Havasu so I don't know how heavily my 2 cents should count. I enjoy visiting this site and feel a kinship with people I have never met, but look forward to someday. Having taken leadership with other clubs or organizations, I know that very often the burden of many falls on few. LM1 & MsLM1 have made an investment in time and their money for the benefit of all of us and I know that is greatly appreciated. I say if they can maintain local control and the friendly feel of this site, while more easily attracting additional members and spreading the workload and expense, than that is better for the longterm. I say go for it.

[shannon]

Just wondering...If LVHB does not join, are they going to come up with a seperate nevada chapter? or are they just not going to have one in NV? Other than getting rid of the avitars, will there be any other censorship or things that they do not approve of? Other then their big events, everything else will be run by LM1, right? Just a few things I need to consider before I make up my mind.
-shannon http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[BADFISH II]

Hey Shannon,

Sorry we missed you last night, we had a good dinner with Riverlife - he's a super cool guy.

Anyway, we would maintain control of the local club and we would all be expected to chip in and help with the big events. We could also still have our own events. There could be no nudity posted anywhere on the site (forums) and the hottie avatars would have to go.

If we do not join, they will most likely still start a club here for Nevada Hot Boats - they own www.nevadahotboats.com. We would continue to grow as we have been and still be the same LVHB you all are part of.

One question I have for LakeRacer or Boatless - how many people are on payroll for AHBA if any, and could you give us a rough idea of what functions they perform and pay? I think one concern is that local club funds could go to pay for things that we don't need.

[STV_Keith]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (Lakemead1 @ June 12 2002, 09:01 am)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Sorry we missed you last night, we had a good dinner with Riverlife - he's a super cool guy.

Anyway, we would maintain control of the local club and we would all be expected to chip in and help with the big events. Â*We could also still have our own events. Â*There could be no nudity posted anywhere on the site (forums) and the hottie avatars would have to go.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
First, why didn't you guys call me? I would have been up for that. I see how you are!

Hey, we're all adults here. The Avatars aren't bad and hell, if we can see the stuff at the sandbar, which is where we go, why can't we see it on the website?

[BADFISH II]

We were over in Henderson looking at houses and met him at the Fiesta.

[STV_Keith]

I was just feeling left out. http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/sad.gif Are you guys still going to Powell? How is the weather going to be? I heard it was really rough last weekend.

[BADFISH II]

don't feel left out, we just happened to be in the area. Still on for Powell, don't know about the weather though.

[boatless]

Sorry, it took so long to get back to you guys and gals. Sometime my real job gets in the way of having fun.

Great Questions: Thanks to everyone – there is lots to consider??


What type of growth are they looking to have with Las Vegas Hot Boats?
According to BoatsUS there are 61722 boats registered in NV, do I think we will get them all, No, but 100 or more - maybe. Keeps in mind members are powerboaters, jet skis and sailboats have different groups to enjoy their sport with.

Do they even know?
Over the past three years we have seen growth of over 250 in AZ, currently membership expands to over 600 members nationwide.

How is this growth going to be accomplished? Is it just by word of mouth, definitely more manageable, or some other way??
Word of mouth is the best way. However, we run ads in many national, regional and local magazines, plus the national events (HeatWave poker run, Lake Powell trips etc…) and all the local events LM1 would be putting on.

I know they already have members in AHBA from Nevada, do they automatically become members of Las Vegas Hot Boats?
No, not until they renew. Personal choices, membership for each state is up to the individual, if they want to be a member of AHBA, AZHB, SCHB, NMHB or CHBA. It would behoove the member to signup with their state to get local flyers on events.

How much control do they really have over the Las Vegas Chapter if you/we decide to join??
Control? – The idea is simple, this would be a partnership. The managers know the local needs and those needs would need to be kept in line with the national perception.

Do you have to run every thing by the "powers that be" before doing anything??
No, Back to the control idea. Reasonable events etc… because we are a family oriented group. We would hate to be publicized as to “how many gelo shots our members consumed on a day out boating�.

What about a person like me?? As I said, I'm in all 3!?!?!?!?!?!?!
Choices, Choices, Choices….. very common. I guess it comes down to what t-shirt do you want to wear?

If LVHB does not join, are they going to come up with a separate Nevada chapter? or are they just not going to have one in NV?
Yes, to the first part. There will be a NV chapter; we have had enough interest in more local events. We like to see LM1 expand from LVHB to NHBA, sure! but only time will tell at this point.


Other than getting rid of the avitars, will there be any other censorship or things that they do not approve of?
Family oriented… There are plenty of other snuff sites for people to express their art (as it’s sometimes call). We are boaters, avid boaters, when I had my boat, we put over 120 hour on it in a year, and everyone else is the same way. We know everyone gets wild at parties.. but there are other place more appropriate for descriptive postings and activities.

Other then their big events, everything else will be run by LM1, right?
We will help coordinate state/local events with LM1. Such as: meetings, safety courses and charity events. We can’t travel to every event, this is in some cases is a second job, my third.

Payroll ?
Nope, no one is on payroll. Volunteer at this point. Funds go for events, website, expenses and advertising.

I hope this answer some of the questions.

Mike Campbell
AHBA Treasurer - HBR

[B-Rad502]

boatless, I'll agree with you that there is not a payroll over there, but certain people ARE getting financially compensated for their time, you CANNOT deny that. Not many know how much though. I have never had a problem with people getting compensated for their time, but I just don't want to see Greg have to work his ass off more than he already does with this club and only get a few t-shirts and 2 dinner tickets for submarine sandwiches. Just my .02 cents.

Brad http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/wink.gif
Been there, done that.

[STV_Keith]

Reading through all that (thanks for posting it Mike) I come back to one thing. What does being part of AHBA give us that we don't have now?

Growth? He says it's all basically word of mouth...we'll, we're doing that now.

Control? If Greg will still be coordinating/organizing, why have another person to answer to? What would be the benefits to Greg/LVHB of the organization that AHBA has to offer?

Censorship? Boats are big boys/girls toys. Big boys and girls are on this site. I think we can handle on a website what we see at the river. I don't like the idea of "cleaning it up for the kids". We're adults here and can handle it I believe. Hell, that's one of the things I enjoy about the site...seeing some eye candy here and there. Maybe we need a forum at http://adults.lasvegashotboats.com http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

If they are going to start a NV chapter anyway, perhaps we can merge in the future if there seems to be something big beneficial for the club. Greg, I'm in either way, but these are just my views. Remember the old saying KISS (keep it simple stupid).

[waterndog]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (boatless @ June 12 2002, 11:29 am)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">We like to see LM1 expand from LVHB to NHBA, sure! but only time will tell at this point.[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Thanks for taking the time to answer some questions. I just have one more question. What If down the line it was decided to change the name from LVHB to NHBA, and LM1 decided he wanted to keep the name LVHB since thats what got it all started would he be overruled? and the name be changed anyway or would he be the main to decided to change it. I know this may be a stupid question but you never know.

Oh ya!! its not just how many jello shots can you do, its how many jello shots you can do out of the belly button of those hot chicks in the avatar's http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif j/k

[BADFISH II]

funny http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

I was very specific that I want to retain the name as it is and the website, unless a mutual decision is made to change it to NHBA which I don't personally care for - there's no lakes between Vegas and Reno, and I just wanted this to be a local boat club.

[BADFISH II]

Ok, I'm closing this vote as of tomorrow night. As it stands it seems to me that the best thing to do is put the decision off for at least a month, and possibly until next season, then revisit the idea when we're all more familiar with AHBA.

If they start a NHBA, then maybe we can merge into their group down the road if appropriate, if not then we can look at doing this at some future point.

You've all been great with your feedback and voting (although I know a few of you couldn't vote because of a glitch, but those that couldn't vote posted a no vote).

We've got a great group going here and it will only get better either way!

BTW, I can't tell you how much I appreciate all of your preorders for hats and shirts! I think you'll like them and don't forget to check out the preliminary graphic under that thread

[boatless]

Waterndog - "LVHB to NHBA" Just ideas, everything is open.

STV-Keith – check page 2, first post on that page for benefits.

B-Rad502 – This is the first I have heard from you in over a year. WHATS UP?http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif To answer your question: There are benefits and perks to everything, I won’t deny that. But, as you stated its no ware near how much time and effort goes into this.
p.s. You should have talked to me a long time a go.. Smile Bro it’s all good.

I am not trying to change anyone’s mind, just answer questions. I will give everyone credit - lots of thoughtful questions. Thanks for not bashing me and I will continue to check the board for any more relevant questions.

Mike Campbell
AHBA Treasurer

[B-Rad502]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (boatless @ June 12 2002, 4:08 pm)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Waterndog Â*- "LVHB to NHBA" Just ideas, everything is open.

STV-Keith – check page 2, first post on that page for benefits.

B-Rad502 – This is the first I have heard from you in over a year. WHATS UP?http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif To answer your question: There are benefits and perks to everything, I won’t deny that. But, as you stated its no ware near how much time and effort goes into this.
p.s. You should have talked to me a long time a go.. Smile Bro it’s all good.

I am not trying to change anyone’s mind, just answer questions. I will give everyone credit - lots of thoughtful questions. Thanks for not bashing me and I will continue to check the board for any more relevant questions.

Mike Campbell
AHBA Treasurer[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
Over a year?? I thought last year's Fall Run that we worked was in September?? http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/confused.gif http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/ohboy.gif

Don't worry, I'm always smiling http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif The smile will be twice as big when the Vindicator sells! http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/laugh.gif http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif

[boatless]

B-Rad502 - at my age everythings a blurrrrrrrrrrrrrr

Time for me to go home. 5am - 4pm. I'm too old for this.

Boatless
AHBA - HBR

[dave]

Alright guys here I go..be aware that I have been up for a very long time and have consumed about 8 beers at this point! I for one would not like the state of Nevada to be synonymous with Nevada Hot Boat Association. There is but one lake other than Lake Mead in Nevada thats worth mentioning and you would be hard pressed to find a Hot Boat there on any day of the week! Lake Mead is one of the biggest lakes in the United States and everyone knows that it is located in VEGAS! Las Vegas is one of the most well known places on earth and if we are to have a club here than it should carry the iniquitous name as well. I will post more on this topic when I am up to the task. As for now, I would vote no.

[LakeRacer]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (STV_Keith @ June 12 2002, 1:28 pm)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Censorship? Â*Boats are big boys/girls toys. Â*Big boys and girls are on this site. Â*I think we can handle on a website what we see at the river. Â*I don't like the idea of "cleaning it up for the kids". Â*We're adults here and can handle it I believe. Â*Hell, that's one of the things I enjoy about the site...seeing some eye candy here and there. Â*Maybe we need a forum at http://adults.lasvegashotboats.com Â*http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I want to follow up on this particular subject. Censorship is a hot button for alot of people.

Let's face it. Alot of us have kids who would like to be involved in hot boating as much as you all are. But the "adult material" may be keeping them away. If LVHB doesn't want kids involved that's your choice. But AHBA sees kids as future boaters and we think they should be involved, the internet included.

"Adult material" also affects our members in other ways. We want anyone who participates on the message boards or our websites to be able to do so at work or at home, etc. without fear of getting into trouble. Many companies have firewalls setup for particular servers and websites because of the "adult material." We want our members to have access to our web site and boards from anywhwere at anytime.

And lastly, AHBA is heavily involved with the marine industry (dealers, manufacturers, engine builders and rigging shops.) Our goal is professionalism throughout our whole organization and that is what we want to present to our sponsors and advertisers.

I just wanted to explain a little better why we run our website and message boards the way we do. If you have any questions you can email me at art@lakeracer.com or you can call me at 602-318-5785

Art Witzell
President, AHBA

[STV_Keith]

</span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (LakeRacer @ June 13 2002, 12:37 am)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE"></span><table border="0" align="center" width="95%" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1"><tr><td>Quote (STV_Keith @ June 12 2002, 1:28 pm)</td></tr><tr><td id="QUOTE">Censorship? Â*Boats are big boys/girls toys. Â*Big boys and girls are on this site. Â*I think we can handle on a website what we see at the river. Â*I don't like the idea of "cleaning it up for the kids". Â*We're adults here and can handle it I believe. Â*Hell, that's one of the things I enjoy about the site...seeing some eye candy here and there. Â*Maybe we need a forum at http://adults.lasvegashotboats.com Â*http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I just wanted to explain a little better why we run our website and message boards the way we do. Â*If you have any questions you can email me at art@lakeracer.com or you can call me at 602-318-5785

Art Witzell
President, AHBA[/QUOTE]<span id='postcolor'>
I guess that's why I want this website to remain Greg's/LVHB's.

I've met quite a few of the people from OUR club, and while one of them is in the process of having children, most of the others don't. Not that it's a bad thing, but for our club, it's not much of an issue. If we were national, maybe - but we're not.

[shannon]

how about this...
take in donations/member fees, whatever and put an ad in hotboat mag/website and call it good. They are more of a "party crowd" and you will attract members who will not be offended by slutty avitars/jello shot pictures. I know you(LM1), have talked about this before, and dave and I would be more than happy to help defer the cost as would, i am sure, all the other members. This way, you will get more local members and not have to answer to anyone, run the website exactly as you like. http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/smile.gif
but like I have said, what the hell do I know, I am just a girl http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/tounge.gif

[digginfordollars]

I have two future hotties (ages 6 & 7) and there is not much on this site that they have not seen at the lake on a normal weekend. The avatars are no worse than the pictures in my garage. I don't think LVHB is non family oriented just because most of the members do not have kids. Besides if we are at lake with the kids and the action gets too hot we pack up and go somewhere else, it's a big lake. We don't get to Havasu as often as we sould like cuz it's hard to get a sitter for full weekend but we still go as often as we can. My point is I think you can be family friendly and still have a little risky stuff.

[BADFISH II]

To LVHB,

Well everyone, I appreciate all of the feedback, votes and advice. This has been a difficult decision, but all of you have made it easy on me. Based on the feedback and voting, LVHB will not join AHBA at this point in time. We'll just keep things rolling the way they are.

I'll need as much help as I can get if we're going to do some events and a photo shoot for Hot Boat Mag. We'll definitely still look at doing a charity poker run to as some point in time.

We may revisit this topic later after we all get to know more about AHBA and know some of the members. I will always be open to ideas to make LVHB a huge success and put those ideas to you all, the members, for a vote.

I guess we're kind of a virtual club huh? http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif It's nice being able to do all of this over the net.

Mike, Art, and Jim. I appreciate all of the time and info you've put into this as do the rest of our members I'm sure. We also appreciate the opportunity, and hope it will be available in the future if appropriate at that time. I hope we can maintain a very open and friendly relationship between AHBA and LVHB.

Thanks!

Greg

[LakeRacer]

Greg, It's a compliment that you considered joining AHBA. Now is not the time according to your members but who knows what the future will hold? The opportunity to join AHBA will always be there.

Thanks to all LVHB members who responded and voiced there opinions. It looks like Greg has a good group of people to work and have fun with.

If ever any of you have questions about AHBA, feel free to call me at 602-318-5785 or email me at art@lakeracer.com

Art Witzell
President, AHBA

[RiverLife]

Greg, I'm late to this as usual. Anyway, I think you made the right choice for now, no offense to any of the AHBA crew you all sound like very nice people. I think the benifits of joining sound fine........... until you get to the part about changing the name to NVHB, and censorship (not just the pictures and words I'm afraid) which I think was the deal breakers for everyone.
Vegas is the ONLY Hot Boating area in Nevada, so I don't think the name should ever change, even if we join at a later date. Just like the AZHB club should be called Mohave County Hot Boats, since the true "Hot" boats in AZ are found at Havasu and Parker. They have "hot" boats in New Mexico??!! http://www.lasvegashotboats.com/iB_html/non-cgi/emoticons/biggrin.gif
Secondly, trying to shelter your children from sexy images.................. what happens when you go to the river? That's where all of these shots were taken! Is it better that they see a bunch of people getting drunk? I personally think that "Boats" are for adults, we adults should be the one's on here "chatting". Just tell your kids when the next trip is, bringing then along is how they should be involved. I personally don't care about the images, that stuff is everywhere in everday life. If they are taken off of here, they can be seen anywhere else, just a click away!!!!!

I just don't want to see what we have right now diminish in any way. We are a very tight knit group of boat enthusiasts. I like what Greg has started. It's the best boating site around hands down!! If we ever joined, I would like for everything to remain as is, the only difference being we would then have to pay a membership fee which Greg would get a portion of, and all of the events, etc.

We'll just let this topic sleep for a while and see what happens. I think more needs to be talked about with the AHBA.

RL

[D2 in LV]

Greg

I can see you working on this issue....First of all, it should be noted that since March 17th, and the creation of LVHB's and the site, the organization has made tremendous strides. From what I can see, mostly from your efforts. Â*I commend your dedication to this task. Â*As for my thoughts on how to move forward, there are advantages to both routes. Â*If we stay the way we are, we maintain our autonomy as a regional organization, control the site, arrange get togethers and control the expansion opportunities for LVHB. Â*(AMHB started out somewhere) Â* The flip side would be to affiliate with another organization, leverage their competencies into our plan to take advantage of their experience and programs. Â*Not a bad way to go either. Â*So, to answer the question as to which way to go, I think we could go either way and make it work. Â*Any organization is only as good as the people in it, and LVHB is off to a terrific start!

D2.

[BADFISH II]

THanks for the input D2. I think for now we're going to stay as we are for a while and see how things work. Eventually we'll probably run into this question again, maybe later this year, maybe next and once again we'll put it to a vote. But for now, things are going great the way they are I think! Ms. LM1 and I have met some great people through here and have had some great days on the lake with other members - it's all about boating and fun and we're accomplishing that for now!

Thanks again,

Greg