January 2018 Meeting Notes

We started off the January meeting with Tolling the Boats lost in January, followed by birthday wishes for our members, and introductions.

We followed that up with the Officer Reports and then moved to elections for the Base.

Seattle Base Elections – We had one change from the previously posted list of nominees. Lois Mezek changed from co-Secretary to Treasurer. Since there were no opposing nominations, the new officers were elected by acclamation. Western District 4 Commander Jim DeMott was on hand to swear-in the new officers.

Swearing in the new Seattle Base officers

Please welcome our new slate of officers and committee chairs.

• Base Commander – Ric Hedman 
• Sr Vice Commander – Larry Abbott 
• Jr Vice Commander – Earl Greening 
• Secretary – Bill Giese 
• Treasurer – Lois Mezek 
• Chief of the Boat – Ralph Sterley 
• Base Chaplin – Andrea Geisler 
• Storekeeper – Ralph Sterley 
• Newsletter Editor/Webmaster – Dave Schueler 

We want to thank Al Smith for his work as Base Commander. We also want to say a special thanks to Jim Harper, who has finally been replaced as Treasurer. With the elections out of the way, Ric stepped took over the meeting as the new Base Commander.

New Base Commander - Ric Hedman

Old and New Business: 
 Membership Dues – As we start the new year, we want to remind you that National USSVI and Seattle Base annual dues are due. Please be sure to get your renewals to Treasurer Lois Mezek. 

Holiday Luncheon – We had a quick recap of the Holiday Luncheon (you can see photos here). It was announced that Kerry Ryan will take over planning for the 2018 event.

2018 Activities Calendar – We are looking for things to do as a base in 2018. We plan to attend the usual local parades and we are looking at adding a picnic and other events. If you have suggestions for something, please bring it up at the next meeting or contact one of the officers.

2018 USSVI National Convention – The 2018 National Convention is a Caribbean cruise on October 21 – 28, departing from Fort Lauderdale, FL. Be sure to check the convention website for more details, including the list of boat reunions.

February Meeting – We are planning something special for the ladies for our February meeting. Be sure to watch your email and check the blog for more information.

Smokey Point Event – Steve Shelton let us know that our slot for Smokey Point will be at the beginning of June and we will have the north-bound rest stop. We will have further announcements at future meetings and on the blog. 

Good of the Order:
Jim DeMott reminded us that about the USSVI Western Regional Roundup on April 23 – 27, 2018 in Las Vegas. You can see more about the event at their website; registration has not been set up yet, but you can check out the events.

Dave Schueler passed along information about a new submarine book, called Poopie Suits and Cowboy Boots, with all proceeds going to the Charitable Fund Scholarship Fund.

Dick Gonzalez showed off a laser-cut wood plaque at the meeting. The plaque was may by Richard Del Missier and he is selling similar plaques for $75. He can also personalize plaques. If you have something special in mind and to get in touch with Richard, send me an email and I will give you his contact number.

Dick's laser-cut plaque

We hope to see you at the next meeting.