Commodore's Message

I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve as your Commodore. Penny and I look forward to the challenge.

During this past year, Steve Ross, our Immediate Past Commodore, has had to make many difficult decisions. Many times there was no clear-cut, best answer. He has accomplished a great deal during a time of change. Next time you see Steve, thank him for his leadership and for overseeing the acquisition of our Visitor¹s Reciprocal Dock, the BYC Web page, and the remodeling project for the building which includes reroofing and the remodel of the Ward Room. In addition, he has right-sized the office, which now matches expenses with income while providing member and program support. Steve has set an example of leadership that will be a standard for the future.

A special thanks to Bob Walston. He has provided a fine restaurant that supports our programs and makes lease payments that are used to pay off our debt. We are very dependent upon Bob being successful. We can all thank Bob by using the Breakwater Restaurant.

The BYC is still in a state of transition and change. We have many fine programs, however, the ongoing questions are: What course should the Yacht Club follow? and How do we continue to provide member support, add new members and programs, and expand existing programs?

To that end, you can count on the following: Member dues and member services will be in balance. We will not use debt to cover cash short falls. We have asked you to amend the By-Laws to require a membership vote when Club assets are pledged to secure debt.

Dues reduction and value for dues will be an ongoing program. We started the process of reducing the dues in the coming year. Your annual dues have decreased 12%. We will also need to use volunteer help more to minimize overhead expense. This past year numerous volunteers spent hundreds of hours working on the building remodel and on a variety of special events for the community and Yacht Club. Thank you for your tireless efforts and your commitment to BYC. As we move into the 1997-98 year, I hope our volunteer base will continue to grow and that we can count on you to say yes. Expanding and adding new programs while following the mission statement will be our collective challenge. I see my role as Commodore as a program and idea facilitator. Please give any of the Board Members your ideas about our future. Our Club is now prepared for the future. I hope a year from now you will say, "Hold course, full speed ahead."