It seems like just a few months ago I was being told that stepping into the role of Rear Commodore would be “easy” and that our monthly member dinners generally “ran themselves.” In retrospect, I know how absurd that sounds. But after two years, I think I understand a bit about what’s at the heart of such statements about leadership roles at BYC being “easy.” First, let’s be clear: they are a lot of work. But once you get to know our members and once you feel welcomed into this community of self-proclaimed oddballs, regular folks, and salty sailors, the hard work does get easier somehow. You get sucked in.
And looking back over the previous year, I could not be more grateful for the efforts of the folks that got sucked in along with me. This year’s Board of Directors navigated some treacherous waters, encountered some real challenges, and somehow came out the other side smiling. There will be a diversity of opinion in any group the size of our board, and we certainly had our fair share. But to the team’s credit, we stayed focused on finding a solution and were all able to share a round of drinks after our meetings as friends, even when passions ran high. I hope this year’s board is able to work with each other as well as last year’s.
And so… hats off to our outgoing board members! It’s been a privilege and an honor to work alongside you, and your efforts had a huge impact on our club and membership. Evan McDonald, Ibrahim Sargin, Amanda Witherell, Kimber Oswald, Robin Crawford, S/C Mary Garfein…thank you sincerely for your service. We couldn’t have done it without you!
And to those who have stayed on for another year: Vice Commodore Roger Mason and Directors JP Camille, Phil Strause, and Judy Lee, thank you for all you’ve done as well as for what you’ll do for BYC in the months to come. Our team will rely on your knowledge and experience, and I’m confident you’ll be great mentors to our incoming team members.
Lastly, welcome to our new Directors Max Perez and Galen Loving, Rear Commodore Mari Bird, Port Captain Scott Barnes, and Suliana Baldwin, reprising her role in finance at our esteemed institution as our incoming Treasurer. These folks may be new to the Board of Directors, but they are all familiar faces in the club, and we’re fortunate to have them step up.
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