Commodore’s Corner
The month of February has ended with the initiation of great events for the future of the Laguna Madre Yacht Club. We have a new board with members that are individually accomplished in their respective fields and ready to accept responsibilities ensuring the will of the members is considered and employed. Our new steward Bill Rushfield has proven his worthiness in grand style with his rendition of a Cowboy Chili Cook-off. The participation by members was great, and the chili was enjoyed by all. Those declared winners were “the best of the very best.” Look for Bill’s new ideas for water events in conjunction with the Fleet Captain, as well as special indoor events.
February marks the full end of 2009 and the beginning of new efforts and ideas for 2010. The financial books are satisfactorily reviewed, accepted and closed; the new Fleet Captain and Steward’s schedules are published with new concepts that will include ideas for new power boat members; the new membership directory is being published and an outstanding recruiting colored brochure is at the press. We have already recruited two new members for the year, with one of them being a power boater. Through conversations with eight other Yacht Club Commodores and input from our Rear Commodore, it is readily apparent that many clubs are also facing declining membership due to age, loss of interest, boats in disrepair, poor communication, and the lack of young members. In many cases memberships have increased by simply dispelling the notion that Yacht Clubs are elitists with exorbitant membership fees, catering only to yachters in blue jackets and white pants. In fact, one of our new members felt this way, but realizing how wrong the impression was, he became one of our more active sailors. Aggressive recruitment of power boaters is also recommended. Efforts are now underway to reach out to local power boaters by our recruitment committee. All members have been asked to identify outlets for our recruiting brochures and possible members. This activity has already resulted in new members and increased communications within our club.
Soon the 2010 Directory will be mailed to members. In it will be copies of our club membership applications, color recruitment brochures, and a letter offering a challenge to all members to recruit at least one new member this year. Successes will be recognized in the Light and by other means. Many are already on a roll and will be recognized soon. We expect to soon announce new boating activities in conjunction with the local Power Squadron, of which one of our members is the Commander. Also, as a result of our outstanding relationship with the Galveston Boating Clubs, we have been invited to participate in the Galveston to Vera Cruz sailing race. I will receive more information soon on the event and will get it to our Flag Captain for coordination. This is going to be a great year in which everyone will feel a part of every accomplishment. Let us work together and bring Laguna Madre Yacht Club to even higher heights.
Stay safe and God Bless you,
Colonel Bill Maples
Commodore