I would like to thank everyone involved with Sewanhaka's Change of Watch this year. It was well attended and made for an enjoyable evening. The Commander's incoming speech is always difficult to prepare, but being surrounded by my friends and my squadron made it easy to deliver. I focused on some key points about membership, social activities and the upcoming summer of fun which I'm hoping everyone will participate in.

It is no secret that USPS as a whole has been declining in membership. Many different reasons have been put forth for this, but I want to focus on what we can do to reverse the trend. I have been challenged by both National and our District Bridge to help increase Sewanhaka's active members. As I said at the Change of Watch, I will listen to ANY suggestions from any member that will help me in this goal. I received membership dues request came last week, as I'm sure many other members did, and I want to take this time to ask you to please renew your membership on time. National has made it extremely easy to renew via the web and I was done in less than five minutes without having to remember what the postage is these days.

One of the benefits of renewing with USPS are the available social activities. This year is no exception and we already have a few parties lined up. We are starting with a multisquadron picnic at Tappen Beach on May 17, followed by our shake up/shake down cruise to Watch Hill, Fire Island, on June 12-14. Watch Hill is a beautiful destination that has ferry service for those who don't want to take their boats or are coming only for one day. These are just part of the “Summer of Fun” we are planning.

Last year, as Executive Officer, I visited many of our neighboring squadrons and joined them in their social activities - especially on the water - and I had a blast. I have asked our bridge to incorporate more intersquadron activities in the “Summer of Fun” this year. Meeting other boaters and sharing experience, knowledge, and a few laughs is at the core of what USPS is about. I ask that every member plan to attend at least one intersquadron activity this year.

I am working with the rest of the squadrons in District to compile an online list of all the on-the-water hotspots, cruises and raft ups this year. With this powerful information you will never have to ask, “what am I doing this weekend?” For those who have never been to a raft up, now is the perfect time. It is an inexpensive way to enjoy your boat on the water in one of the many fine coves and anchorages around Long Island. I will be hosting at least one in June, July and August, and invite members to join me out on the water. Also, Great South Bay squadron is planning a huge weekend overnight raft up in the Connetquot River near the Great South Bay at Oakdale. They have been doing this for a few years and now have opened it to other squadrons. Last year, they had 59 boats enjoying a night of music, dancing and even a delivered dinner! This year they are hoping for 70 boats on the weekend of July 17-19. That's all for now, I hope to see everyone out on the water this year.