I want to take this opportunity to wish all of you the best during this time of year when we gather with family and friends to celebrate the season and prepare for the coming year. I know that I am probably not alone in my favorite cold weather pastime of daydreaming of this coming summer’s boating adventures and club activities. Thinking about warmer weather helps us boaters get through the winter with our sanity intact. It’s better than staring at a boat propped up on jack stands in wind swept, overcast, 36 degree weather (which is what I did the other day).

As I look back on this past year, I want to thank all of you for giving me the wonderful opportunity to act as the Commodore of our fine club. It was a privilege and I think it’s safe to say that it was a pretty fun year. Our events were run smoothly and were well attended and we had a pretty full calendar. Sherry and I had a great time at all the events that we were able to attend and I hope that you all had as much fun as we did! I want to shout out a heartfelt “THANK YOU!!” to all the years event hosts and especially those “behind the scenes” members who help on events without the recognition that they so deserve. These “behind the scenes” folks tend to fill in all the little cracks that can appear while putting together events for 50-60 people and the events are successful because of them.

In the upcoming year, you will notice some new faces at the helm of the club and some new initiatives being undertaken. There will be a lot of exciting things happening next year and the club will be better because of them. I want to welcome our new Commodore, Chuck Kahle (and Commodorable Ann) as well as all the new flag officers and committee members and wish them success in 2025.

Again, thank you all for a great 2024! Stay safe, warm and Sherry and I will see you next year!

Norm Render
(Past Commodore)