Written by Michael Benjamin, SV Exodus

The Salty Dawgs had a very successful 2023 Annapolis Boat Show weekend.    After a busy first day at the show, over 225 Dawgs and friends attended the Annual Annapolis Rendezvous at the local Elks Club.   Following cocktails and dinner we were entertained by Americas Cup Tactician and ESPN commentator Gary Jobson.   Gary regaled us with his humor,  sailing stories and adventures.  We were so honored to have such a sailing icon as our guest speaker.     We also conducted our first silent auction at the event and raised a substantial amount of funds for our operations, thanks to our sponsors who generously donated many great items.   Thanks go out to Diane MacKenzie for organizing our first such fundraiser.  Many of our sponsors also attended the dinner, including our Platinum Event Sponsor, David Walters Yachts.  

During the 4 day show we registered over 20 new members and renewed quite a few more.   The booth was extremely active throughout the show, even during the Saturday downpours.   

Congratulations to new members, Peter and Debbie Bisio who won the membership drive raffle and received a Standard Horizon handheld VHF radio, generously donated by Charter Rode. 

The show volunteers also had a great time connecting with old friends and welcoming new members.   Special thanks to all of those who volunteered their time at the booth and the dinner.   It’s our volunteers who make our organization so successful.  I think all of them would agree that it was a fun and meaningful experience.