Paralyzed by Inertia? A short term compromise might help:

Right now, USSPEEDSKATING is facing a crisis. There are so many decisions before the new administration that they seem to be paralyzed and unable to respond, like a deer caught in the headlights. Maybe the thing to do, especially in terms of the athlete agreement, would be to come up with a short term solution; a sort of compromise between the two sides, that would allow USS to move forward with this season.

It might be good to avoid locking people into any long term contracts at this time. That would allow more time for serious issues involving the direction and philosophy of the federation to be hammered out, instead of making quick decisions right now that USS or the athletes might regret later on.

Why do I mention this? Here's a sobering thought: ICE OPENS ON THE UTAH OLYMPIC OVAL IN LESS THAN A MONTH. Please think of the skaters, and let them know what is going on.