2016 Tolling the Boats Ceremony Canceled

Shipmates,

After consultation with Tolling the Boats ceremony organizers, we have collectively decided to cancel the 2016 Tolling the Boats event.

We made this decision for multitude of reasons and we believe it is the right thing to do. Some of the reasons that informed this decision are:

• Seattle Base currently lacks full leadership, due to the vacant Sr. Vice Commander position and temporary absence of our Jr. Vice Commander. Participation of these board members is crucial during high profile events like our annual Tolling. 
• The City of Kirkland has initiated a more stringent application process and we would have to pay for more liability coverage above the level currently covered by the National USSVI Policy. 
• There are some complications with getting all the necessary materials (portable seating, float, etc.) to the event. 
• I am currently under a doctor’s care for pneumonia and quite frankly probably won’t be up to conducting the ceremony on the 20th. 

In conclusion, we believe the Tolling the Boats ceremony, our premier event, requires us to be at our best. Under the current circumstances, this is not the case.

I hope you will agree with us that it is in our best interests to forego this year’s event and plan to resume at full strength in 2017. I would appreciate your assistance in getting the word out to all our shipmates.

I want to take this opportunity to thank those who work with dedication and limitless energy every year to make these events so successful.

Finally, remember there is no meeting in August. We should all take the month off to enjoy our summer with families and friends.

I look forward to joining you at the September 21st meeting.

Fraternally,
Al Smith
Seattle USSVI Base Commander