Annual Report of the President

December 3, 2010

It is with pleasure that I report to you the activities of your Association during this past year.

Our 125^th Annual Banquet was a huge success with over 300 members and guests in attendance.  It was held at the Westin San Francisco Market Street.  The Committee was chaired by Marla Saltztine.  Thanks to her and her many committee members who were responsible for a wonderful 125^th celebration.  Special thanks to Marilyn Raia who presented an historical perspective of our 125 years. 

Throughout the year, we did spend considerable energy in reviewing our by-laws and customs; making sure that they meet the needs of our current environment.  A few subtle changes were made and approved at our Annual Meeting which we expect will widen the scope of our membership and make for a more welcoming organization for the newer members of our marine community.

Our Golf Tournament was held on June 18th at a new venue, San Ramon Golf Club.  Our Chairman, Marie Meadows, has had tough luck with the elements of late, as last year’s gales were followed this year by unusually cold temperatures.  We enjoyed excellent golf but the lovely evening buffet planned for poolside proved a bit nippy for many of our members.  Thanks to Marie and her Committee for their work in searching for new courses and in organizing a fine Tournament.  Our Miniature Golf alternative was again run by Doug Kyono.  

The website, www.AMUSF.com has been maintained and updated this year by our Vice President Kathleen Creedon.

One of the rewarding aspects of membership in our Association is the giving back to others, who share in a variety of ways, our passion and dependence on the sea and seafaring ways.  We do try to spread out our giving to encompass many needs and to assist those organizations that honor the maritime past, nurture the present, and prepare for the future of ours and related marine industries.  I am pleased to report that your Association donated $10,000 this year to the following groups:

·        $1,000 to the National Liberty Ship Memorial – SS Jeremiah O’Brien.

·        $1,000 to the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association. 

·        $1,000 to the San Francisco Sea Scout Foundation.

·        $2,000 to the Seamen’s Church Institute- Bay Area Center.

·        For the 8^th consecutive year we contributed $5,000 to the California Maritime Academy.

As reported by our Treasurer, Sean McCormack, your Association remains financially sound.

Finally, I would like to thank the entire Executive Committee for their support, commitment and energy throughout the year.  Special Thanks this year go to Sean McCormack who has taken over the major responsibilities of the Treasury.  Our Board of Karla Scott, Stan Gibson, Ben Walbridge, Tom Deist, Julie Vogele, Russ Light and Vice President Kathleen Creedon all contributed with their insights, energy and experience for the continued success of the Association.  Next year we will certainly miss Karla on the Executive Committee and I thank her for the time she has devoted.  We welcome Andy Blaize as the new member to our Executive Group.

It has been my pleasure to serve as the President of your Association this past year. 

Respectfully;

Phil Nelson

2010 President