Much is being said in this banner year about beginnings and endings. Is January going to be the beginning of a new millennium, or does that happen in 2001? Will all computer functions end when that dreaded date 01/01/00 arrives? Basically, it's all about change. Changing the first integer of the year and changing the way our business is recorded.

This year at the Yacht Club is also about change. We have already changed our dues, and the trees that are no longer in the front yard have changed the way the Club looks. We have lost some long-time members and gained some new ones. We are experimenting with changing the way the Club is run. A Club Manager position, talked about for so many years, is now a reality. We are seriously pursuing the addition of docks and looking into having the Club open to more people, more often, by offering Friday night fish fries, breakfasts, and catered dinners. We may even enter the Year 2000 with a Web site!

I am blessed to be surrounded by a great team. Vice Commodore Jack Attkisson and Rear Commodore Sam Gregory are full of ideas, yet open to suggestions. The season they have arranged for us, both on the water and off, looks like it will be great. Past Commodore Clark Davies, our computer guru, is always there when needed. Auxiliary President Marylou Ramsbottom is blending the past, in the celebration of the Auxiliary's 50th Year, with the future by embracing these changes and making additional changes within that organization. My Fleet Captain (and sister-in-law) Pati Arth took the job even though I told her that the job description was "do anything I ask you to." Our Club Manager Steve Cooks brings to the job the necessary expertise, having served as our 1995 Commodore, as Dockmaster at the Crew's Nest, and, most recently, for the Boardwalk. It's my guess that having taught 5th grade for 20 years will also help.

While some things are changing, some things never change. We will again host the Inter-Lake Yachting Association's Junior and Senior Regattas. These events bring hundreds of sailors and powerboaters of all ages to our Club and it is our members who make it all possible. In addition, this year we have been honored by the Interlake Sailing Class Association, who will be holding their National Championships at the Club in August. All of these things need your patience and your help. Let us know what you think about the changes. Volunteer to help on a committee, and plan to attend the functions. If you have any questions, call the Club Manager or call me at 800-406-1588, extension 254. Thanks in advance to all those who will make this year a success, and especially to my family who are always there. It's going to be a wonderful year. Please join us!!

- Maureen A. Miller