How many people do you know, in ALL multihull classes, that join their class association just before nationals and when they have to do so in order to compete. Wouldn't surprise me if there were a lot of renewing members that hadn't been on the books in a while.

Increased membership is a good thing - it gives the national organizations what they need to implement the will of the members, including education and other important programs. Don't wait - join early, join often. We're all eligible for membership in more than just one sailing organization. Plus, if you're a member, you get a role in steering the organization.