Meeting was called to order at 7:30 PM by Alex Flyntz, presiding officer in the absence of President Len Goldberg, who is recovering from hip replacement surgery. Alex extended a welcome to all and wished all a successful 2008 season.

Alex made two points: 1. Return availability ASAP even if not umping this season

                                 2. If you have used equipment to sell contact him.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

1. NOMINATIONS/ELECTIONS - Lou Cassara mentioned again the positions up for election and those running. Additional nominations may be presented up to the actual election. Contact Lou (516 822-4115) if interested or have a nomination.
    

2. AWARDS/RAFFLE – Tom Melia presented L.I. Championship plaques to Pete Foti, Ray DeVito, Alex Flyntz, Dave Harrison, Rich Maggio & Bob Player. Congrats to   these fine umpires. In addition, the 50/50 raffle is alive and kicking; this meeting’s split was $ 107; these monies are to be used for equipment/materials for umpire training.  PLEASE HELP US HELP YOU!!!                                                                  

3. DINNER & O.C.C. – Steve Cocheo reported that O.C.C. is beginning negotiations on a new contract, which will go into effect in 2009/2010.

He also reminded all that the dinner post card must be returned to him by June 3^rd; part of the 30% rating – Dinner is June 11 @ Verdi’s.

UNIFORM INSPECTION – Craig Roberts is inspecting uniforms – you must wear your uniform, including the hat, for inspection. 3 meetings left for this – if not done you will lose 10% of your 30% association rating. Craig’s list is final!!!!

4.      RATINGS – Rich Maggio explained the rating process; introduced those moving to the Varsity list: Tom Leonard; Steve Puma; Gene Hall; Eric Shabronsky; Ed Betancourt; Mike McMahon & Bill McKenna – kudos and congrats to these seven.

Ratings were distributed; questions/concerns were and will be answered by Rich.

5.      SEC./TREAS. – a. Part 1 test was distributed – NOT TO BE RETURNED!!!

b. Packets will be distributed at the next meeting – Feb. 13^th

c. 2009 dues ($89) will be accepted at all meetings or by mail. Deadline – May 8^th.

d. Our web page ( nassauumpires.org ) is and should be your primary reference source (roster, forms, fees, etc); any questions/problems/comments – call me.

e. Alternate Interpretation meetings – Feb. 2 – Western Suffolk –Lindenhurst J.H.S. 3 PM;
Feb 25 – Eastern Suffolk – Polish Hall, Riverhead (Black Lantern room)

NEW BUSINESS

1.      We will be requiring a new hat next season (2009). However, the hat will be available for use this season, if you wish. The only proviso – Varsity game umps – both MUST wear the same style hat – new or old does not matter.

OLD BUSINESS

1.       A concern was raised about home team warm-up procedures; Alex will address this concern when he meets with the coaches in February.

Adjournment – 8:40PM