|
|
Post by linmiste on Mar 12, 2008 19:37:44 GMT -5
Made a new logo, this time I used the general colors to add some "rocker" to the graphic. What do you ladies think? *as always, graphics are 100% editable, no you can't eat them lol* Apolostarr, just want to say that I am really impressed with your graphic design skills. I liked the one with the torch -- simple -- but then this one was even better. I especially like it on a T-shirt. I think "supporting America's short track skaters" is important to add, because it simultaneously clarifies the fund and invites questions. Have you played with a design with a skate on it, or is that too fussy? Way to go! Mntme, as always, thanks for the detailed info. I'm glad to hear that most donations to the skating clubs are both tax deductible AND can be directed to a particular skater. I understand and agree with your concern about the financial well-being of the skaters who are currently trying to compete at a world level. Even my husband, who is not really into short track or even the Olympics much, was surprised to hear that the skaters on the American team had to work a job to support themselves while also training full-time. So, your cause is worthy! Three cheers for you!  |
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 13, 2008 0:08:48 GMT -5
Mntme, as always, thanks for the detailed info. I'm glad to hear that most donations to the skating clubs are both tax deductible AND can be directed to a particular skater. I understand and agree with your concern about the financial well-being of the skaters who are currently trying to compete at a world level. Even my husband, who is not really into short track or even the Olympics much, was surprised to hear that the skaters on the American team had to work a job to support themselves while also training full-time. So, your cause is worthy! Three cheers for you! ![]() www.gotapolo.com/galleries/albums/userpics/10001/talk016.gif[/IMG] [/quote] Actually USS requires that they work while training. Most are on the Home Depot program (where I'm sure they are just ROLLING in dough from those HUGE paychecks they no doubt are bringing home from working at the hardware store from he11) ...which brings me to my current - and BIGGER Rant.... mtnme...i guess it makes sense that the senior/elite skaters would require more funds to keep themselves at that level of competitiveness, afterall they are in the class/division where all skaters want/aspire to be at.
i still would like more info on the up and comers too...those with sights on 2014 and beyond. i'm one that hates to see potential fall by the wayside. in the long run, if team usa is to become stronger, they must have more in the talent pool to select from.
m'dear, thank you so much for this information and your unwavering dedication  . Believe me, my hope was that we could help the juniors, but I was so horrified at what the Seniors are going through, I don't know how I could look any one of them in the eye and justify a donation to the ones further down the totem pole, who in a lot of ways, are better off. If you still want the names of the juniors that I know to date, I'm happy to give them to you all. that is if you can still read the following and not weep.  So listen to this tale of woe. Imagine you are a Skater on the National team, in fact, you are so wonderful, you may even have made an Olympic team. You recieve funding based on your performance at the competitions, which makes some degree of sense. But at the beginning of the season, you are injured, WHILE SKATING- let me repeat - WHILE SKATING. Since you're injured, you can't compete until you heal up, and as a result, you lose your funding from USS, USOC, your insurance and your job at the Home Depot. In essense, you have lost everything you have worked for to that point. In two words - you're screwed. "Well tough luck sucka! That's what you get for skating for the USA. Austa la vista baby, until you heal up, - don't call us, we'll call you". ...and this, my friends, is how our country rewards our Olympic Athletes for their hard work, sacrifice, and dedication.  That's like you being hurt on the job through no fault of your own, and finding you have no workmans comp, no unemplyment insurance, your boss fires you (well actually, gets you to continue working for him without pay, and of course, without your bennies) because you were hurt while DOING YOUR JOB! Everyone was so amazed that Jeff Simon raced with a broken collarbone. In essence, he had no choice. His career was just taking off. His ability to get funding for the next year is completely dependent on how he skated at Worlds- It is critical and vital that he does compete at any cost. His ability to compete in the future is at stake. No doubt he could have had his arm practically cut clean off, hanging on by a tendon, and he probably would have duct taped that sucker back on, if it meant he could step out on that ice and still compete. Really, he had no choice. So I know you are all getting anxious, so here is what I know so far. When I first started inquiring at WC6 as to who was really having a tough time,and could use some help, T J's name came up repeatedly. to the point I was told he may have to stop competing if things don't turn around for him. T just won several distances at this last weekends American Cup, and is the overall champion for the America Cups for this season, which earned him a place back on the USS National team. It will probably be all for nothing if he doesn't get some sort of financial help. What other names have we heard of athletes who are feeling a real financial squeeze? JM, JS, and AI. And those are just the GUYS I know about so far, I haven't even talked to the clubs for the girls yet.  Nor have I gotten the scoop on CRL or JP. When the problem is so dire and so pervasive, how do you look away from the exact guys we spent all last weekend staying up for- pouncing on live feeds and subjecting ourselves to Korean soap operas for?  Do realize what the serious financial implications of moving the team from Colorado Springs to SLC are. At the Olympic training facilities, at least they are in dorms where room and board are paid for. Moving the Speedskating Team to SLC, means the athletes are completely on their own, with this added major expense (I repeat, on a HD salary) added to their plate. (Having worked for the company and knowing what it's like myself trying to keep a roof over my head on that pay - hey - seriously, - good luck with that.)  The Juniors often stay closer to home, where they can continue to go to school, often still live with their families and can stay a part of the club system, which in many ways, is much more supportive on every level than USS. We are still gathering information and we owe it to ALL the skaters to understand the full lay of the land. I certainly wouldn't want to leave a skater off just because we didn't do all of our homework.  On a seperate RANT, I don't think it would be too much of a stretch if I said the feeling the majority of fans have about USS really just leaves a bad taste in all our mouths. I'm veering now towards severe disgust and displeasure. The p!sser is the organization KNOWS d@mn well which skaters are on the skids, and this process would be so much easier if they would just cooperate and cough up the information we requested, instead of making us dig for it (and screwing the skaters in the process) Now we have to find out which clubs the skaters were all originaly affiliated with, and then ask the clubs. THE CLUBS are MORE than happy to give out the information and cooperate, but USS?- fugedaboudit! ppfftt!(sticking out tongue)  I usually save Bart for only the worst of offenders that arouse my ire. Consider me officially annoyed....  |
|
|
|
Post by apolostarr on Mar 13, 2008 6:34:08 GMT -5
Made a new logo, this time I used the general colors to add some "rocker" to the graphic. What do you ladies think? *as always, graphics are 100% editable, no you can't eat them lol* Apolostarr, just want to say that I am really impressed with your graphic design skills. I liked the one with the torch -- simple -- but then this one was even better. I especially like it on a T-shirt. I think "supporting America's short track skaters" is important to add, because it simultaneously clarifies the fund and invites questions. Have you played with a design with a skate on it, or is that too fussy? Way to go! Mntme, as always, thanks for the detailed info. I'm glad to hear that most donations to the skating clubs are both tax deductible AND can be directed to a particular skater. I understand and agree with your concern about the financial well-being of the skaters who are currently trying to compete at a world level. Even my husband, who is not really into short track or even the Olympics much, was surprised to hear that the skaters on the American team had to work a job to support themselves while also training full-time. So, your cause is worthy! Three cheers for you! Thank you linmiste! I'm glad you like it ! I am working on a design with a boot, it will come up shortly!  thanks! -Theresa |
|
|
|
Post by floridafan on Mar 13, 2008 10:08:47 GMT -5
well said, Mtnme... the skaters in general get short shrift, I believe... while hockey, luge, skiing, etc, etc, are all supported. I am ready to contribute - do not have a lot to give, but am hoping that if a great number each give some, it will add up!
|
|
|
|
Post by number1fan on Mar 13, 2008 13:37:55 GMT -5
well said, Mtnme... the skaters in general get short shrift, I believe... while hockey, luge, skiing, etc, etc, are all supported. I am ready to contribute - do not have a lot to give, but am hoping that if a great number each give some, it will add up!  |
|
|
|
Post by jennaceeta25 on Mar 13, 2008 18:33:16 GMT -5
well said, Mtnme... the skaters in general get short shrift, I believe... while hockey, luge, skiing, etc, etc, are all supported. I am ready to contribute - do not have a lot to give, but am hoping that if a great number each give some, it will add up! I don't have a lot to give either. So we're in the same boat!  |
|
|
|
Post by Lori on Mar 14, 2008 16:58:58 GMT -5
We have been in contact with some of the clubs that are the initial affiliation the skaters start with. (Though we have many more to talk to) Many of them are 501c3 non profit groups, meaning your donations are tax deductible and will go directly to the skaters you ask that the money go to.  For those skaters who belong to clubs that are not hooked up as a non profit group, you can still donate to a specific skater, up to $11 000 as a gift, ( I need to double check those figures- or my writing just to make sure that is correct) The skater does not have to claim gifts as income. it is not tax deductible however. But at least it doesn't bind the skater up with tax issues. I'm a CPA, but I haven't worked in the field for quite a few years so I double-checked for any changes before I popped off with my  - here's what I know: You're absolutely right - gifts given directly are usually not taxable to the recipient, and they would not be taxable in this case. They ARE taxable to the donor if they exceed $12,000 (the number went up) per year to a single recipient. For example, if we had somebody with really deep pockets, they could conceivably give $12,000 to each and every skater on the team (don't we wish) with absolutely no tax consequences for either the donor or the skater. However, as you said, not a penny of it is deductible. (I'm guessing that's not going to be an issue here, unless one of us wins the lottery and starts showin' lots of love)... For gifts given through the 501c3 non-profit clubs, the amount of the donation can be unlimited, and every cent is tax deductible for the donor. It's unlikely that the skater would be taxed on the amount - to be sure, we'd need to check with each club to see if the skater would be receiving a 1099 at the end of the year (which they would have to report on their tax return), but most likely that's not the case... The catch is that as a non-profit, the organization is not permitted to guarantee that any particular skater will receive your donation. The idea is to prevent people from doing things like giving their kids money (i.e., for buying a car or going to college), running it through a non-profit org, and then deducting it. However, the good news is that the clubs we've talked to said they are in the habit of 'making it happen' according to the 'preferences' of the donor.  Southern California Speedskating has been particularly enthusiastic and helpful, and is a model for what we hope all the clubs are like - and fortunately, of the National Team members over the last 2 years, about 1/3 of them have come through SoCal. So - the bottom line is that in all likelihood, it makes no difference (tax-wise) to the skater whether we donate directly or through the clubs - it's primarily an issue of tax deductibility for the donor. This is probably of little consequence for a small donation, but if you're going to make a larger one you may want to support a skater affiliated with a 501c3 non-profit club. |
|
|
|
Post by Lindsey on Mar 16, 2008 1:11:59 GMT -5
Someone raised a question about some skaters getting neglecting because they're not fan favorites, per se...and I was kind of thinking of an idea about that... it might take effort but it would be cool. There could be a *featured* skater that the home page could promote for a period of time (one every month? every two months?). Because of the journalist in me, I thought there could be an article written about the particular skater...their situation, their journey, etc. to kind of raise interest in and awareness of someone that might not be as well known. Of course, people wouldn't HAVE to donate to that skater if they wanted to keep with their favorite, but it would just put another person in a light--give people a *turn* at being featured. It might take a little more research on our part to find the person, and then write up a little article and get pictures, etc. but I think it's definitely something a website would be good for...
|
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 16, 2008 11:33:36 GMT -5
Someone raised a question about some skaters getting neglecting because they're not fan favorites, per se...and I was kind of thinking of an idea about that... it might take effort but it would be cool. There could be a *featured* skater that the home page could promote for a period of time (one every month? every two months?). Because of the journalist in me, I thought there could be an article written about the particular skater...their situation, their journey, etc. to kind of raise interest in and awareness of someone that might not be as well known. Of course, people wouldn't HAVE to donate to that skater if they wanted to keep with their favorite, but it would just put another person in a light--give people a *turn* at being featured. It might take a little more research on our part to find the person, and then write up a little article and get pictures, etc. but I think it's definitely something a website would be good for... Thanks Lindsey, we're on the same page with this one. I always envisioned that there would be some photos, and something about the skater, so everyone would know who they're donating to. A few other ideas as to HOW everyone wanted to donate. There is a lump sum, one time donation. But for me personally, I figured I could afford to set aside x amount of money every month, and just pay it like it was any other monthly obligation. Another way to keep it fair, is to do it on a kind of 'round robin' scenario. I wanted to keep out of everyones business as much as possible on the donation thing. But if everyone wouldn't mind telling the project leaders who they chose to donate to, at least we could get the word out to everyone, "Hey, skater A has 10 donations, skater B has none - who wants to show them some love?" So at least we can at least TRY to be fair across the board. Just some thoughts, and keep them coming. Now that the competitions are over, hopefully the information we need would be a little more free flowing. |
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 18, 2008 3:05:50 GMT -5
Just an update on the recent events. Since team USA did so well at worlds, the money they're alloted from USS increases based on how well they performed. Jeff, Ryan Katherine and Allyson should be entitled to funding, according to the USS athlete agreement. The amount changes based on whether they placed in the top 6, then 7-12, then 13-20. Then there is an alotment for WC qualifiers. There is also incentives based on placement at Nationals Of the world team, Jordan and JP would probably have less funding, although JP was part of the Olympic team, and may be getting some funding from USOC. Travis Jaynor's win at the American Cups puts him on the US team. Hopefully that will earn him some funding as well. The next few weeks should bring more info about the skaters- and we can move forward with this endeavor. |
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 19, 2008 12:03:23 GMT -5
How do you guys feel about a 'Skater of the Month"? Kind of like we do for girl of the week? Just putting ideas out there for opinions and the best way to concentrate our limited recources.
We're getting more information trickling in, now that all the competitions are over. This is an expensive sport, and it's underfunded, so there really is a lot of need out there. I got the names of 11 skaters just from one club alone, and there are many more clubs out there.
As I suspected, the way team USA finished at Worlds and WC does determine who gets what as far as financial incentives, so there is going to be some juggling of finances and hopefully positive changes for the skaters who competed in these events.
We're getting closer guys, to getting this off the ground.
|
|
|
|
Post by number1fan on Mar 19, 2008 12:24:51 GMT -5
How do you guys feel about a 'Skater of the Month"? Kind of like we do for girl of the week? Just putting ideas out there for opinions and the best way to concentrate our limited recources. We're getting more information trickling in, now that all the competitions are over. This is an expensive sport, and it's underfunded, so there really is a lot of need out there. I got the names of 11 skaters just from one club alone, and there are many more clubs out there.  ( undecided)As I suspected, the way team USA finished at Worlds and WC does determine who gets what as far as financial incentives, so there is going to be some juggling of finances and hopefully positive changes for the skaters who competed in these events. (i see tongue emotie)We're getting closer guys, to getting this off the ground. (tongue) |
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 19, 2008 12:49:06 GMT -5
How do you guys feel about a 'Skater of the Month"? Kind of like we do for girl of the week? Just putting ideas out there for opinions and the best way to concentrate our limited recources. We're getting more information trickling in, now that all the competitions are over. This is an expensive sport, and it's underfunded, so there really is a lot of need out there. I got the names of 11 skaters just from one club alone, and there are many more clubs out there. ( undecided)As I suspected, the way team USA finished at Worlds and WC does determine who gets what as far as financial incentives, so there is going to be some juggling of finances and hopefully positive changes for the skaters who competed in these events. (i see tongue emotie)We're getting closer guys, to getting this off the ground. (tongue)OK, deleting emoties and I guess I can't use 'em, because mine are apparently all wacked. (place frowning emotie here) |
|
|
|
Post by daisymomma on Mar 20, 2008 1:51:51 GMT -5
I think that this is a wonderful idea!I don't have alot to give either being a stay at home mom(don't even get me started I feel that sometimes we deserve an income too).I want to know more about the individuals we would be giving to as well.And I am happy to say that Mr Daisy and I have our sights set on attending some short track at the olympics so I can't wait to meet you all.
|
|
|
|
Post by mtnme on Mar 20, 2008 3:18:46 GMT -5
I think that this is a wonderful idea!I don't have alot to give either being a stay at home mom(don't even get me started I feel that sometimes we deserve an income too).I want to know more about the individuals we would be giving to as well.And I am happy to say that Mr Daisy and I have our sights set on attending some short track at the olympics so I can't wait to meet you all. No doubt about it Daisymomma, stay at home mom's DO deserve an income! As well as some personal kudos once in awhile that us working girls take for granted. I'll bet no one ever comes up to you and says, "Congratulations! You did a spanking fine job on cleaning that toilet today!" Or how about anything but a snivel fest on whatever you made for dinner last night? (...eeewwww, mom, I HATE broccolli.... that point usually driven home with a full on, 5 star meltdown the minute they have to choke down a bite...) Yup, you certainly deserve a raise! But as far as donations go, the idea is that even a small amount can make a difference if a lot of people participate. 20 buck may not seem like much, - but 20 bucks sent in by 20 people is a chunck of change that can make a difference. |
|
~Lori
(undecided)
