Welcome Gary and Ann send their greetings and best wishes for a productive and enjoyable conference.

Our national branding effort Phase I of America’s Boating Club advertising is complete. That was the introduction to the media and public about who we are. Judging by hits on our website it was successful. Phase II is starting, that will provide more info about us and our resources.

Why not just advertise USPS? In the spring message I explained… No one knows what a “power squadron” is these days We have changed our content but not our mission America’s Boating Club offers immediate recognition, even to non-boaters

So what to do? GET YOUR SQUADRON WEBSITE UP TO DATE! Advertising will refer prospective members to America’s Boating Club.org The website directs them to your squadron website Many are way, way out of date What kind of message does that send?

Need help? The IT Committee can assist with a standard web page The page can be easily updated once it’s built and provides the latest look Contact the IT Committee for help Or go to Pg 2 of the USPS website members section for an easy way to get started

Ok, then what? Go to USPS.org and check out the branding and marketing guidelines on the Marketing Committee pages Download the brochure on pg 10 of the Marketing Guidelines as a handout Make use of the PowerPoint presentations available in the Marketing Guidelines for your squadron and others

Think about using a pseudonym Again, see the Marketing Guidelines for suggestions Keep your squadron name evident on materials, brochures, etc. Use the America’s Boating Club banner but Maintain visibility of your squadron name United States Power Squadrons is America’s Boating Club

Don’t Change your name, just use the pseudonym along with it Change or modify the America’s Boating Club banner or logo Change your name on official documents such as Form 990 or checking accounts Change your name in your bylaws

Why? Create a national brand, not a local one Appeal to a broad spectrum Display an inviting image Advertise our many opportunities Convey a modern image of our education programs

Learn more Join us in Orlando for the Annual Meeting February 18-24, 2019 Rosen Centre Hotel