Greetings:

It has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve as Commodore for the past four years. In my final communication let me summarize our activities over that time and pass the flag on to our new officers.

Next year the WCYC will celebrate our 60th anniversary. Our new Commodore is Vickey Leonard and Craig Semard will serve as Vice-Commodore.

For more information on any of these topics visit our website at www.wcyc.info

Membership
Membership in the WCYC increased this year to 196 families (up from 187). Given the minimal cost of membership, and the benefits available this isn't really surprising. What is puzzling is why membership is less that 10% of the properties on the Chain, when so many people realize the benefits of what we do as a public service organization.
This year we published a new Club brochure and water safety flyer. Copies are available on the website.

Swimming
59 students participated in a total of 104 weeks of swimming instruction this summer. Lessons were provided without charge for the third consecutive year. Based on this success the program will continue next year. Online registration will open on June 1, 2012:

Boating Safety
Our mission to promote boating safety took another step as we partnered with C&C Boatworks and the Crow Wing County Sheriff's Water Safety Patrol to provide boating safety instruction so young boaters can obtain their the Minnesota Watercraft Operator's Permit.
This year 40 students completed the course and were given PFDs provided by the Club..

Navigation buoys
The navigation buoys have all been removed for the season inspected. Those in poor condition will be replaced in 2012 as a part of our ongoing process as we maintain over 100 buoys.
All Buoys have been labeled, identifying WCYC as theorganization that owns and maintains them.


Facebook
WCYC has gone 'social' with a Facebook page. If you haven't done so already, friend us and stay informed with our latest news. I'll even post occasionally during the winter, for those 'seasonals and snowbirds' who want to know what The Chain looks like in the winter. 89 friends and counting!

Reciprocity Cards
One of the benefits to membership in the WCYC is our reciprocal privilege agreement with over 700 other yacht clubs in the US through Yachting Clubs of America.
Reciprocity Cards will be sent to 2012 paid members upon request. You can do so either with payment of your dues or by our on-line request form.

I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season. For those of us that enjoy winter on The Chain, let's hope for early ice and good snow. For those that head for warmer climates, the hope is for a quick return to the boating season!

Sincerly,
J. Robert Nelson, Commodore

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