SFBANTA New Years 2009

Tuesday, December 30th, began with a group of Tugs gathering on the Sacramento and San Jouquin Rivers while another group gathered on the San Francisco Bay for the cruise to and up the Petaluma River to the Petaluma Turning Basin. The two groups arrived within a couple of hours of each other and the dock was active with everyone seeing each other again and meeting the new participants. After this quick socializing we all walked to Semolina Italian Restaurant for a wonderful dinner and the beginning of our New Year's celebration - Italian style tonight!

Wednesday began with SFBANTA's traditional BBBB (Bud's Boiled Bag Breakfast) with Richard Smith serving his apprenticeship under the master - Bud Sheble. We'll watch Richard as he works toward journeyman status.

This was a good day for everyone to walk around and shop in Petaluma's historic downtown and for those who just wanted to "hang out" on the boats to do so with great company. Hors d'oeuvres appeared at sunset and then BBQ's were started to prepare bratwurst for dinner as we were now celebrating German Style. Sauerkraut, potato salad and German Chocolate Cake completed the meal.

After listening to many opinions it was decided to celebrate the new year New York style - 9 pm our time. Champagne appeared and toasts were heard all along the dock.

Thursday began quietly and by lunch time there were groups headed to the many fine eating establishments, breweries, and sports bars nearby. We gathered for the short walk to Maguire's Irish Pub where we had sole use of their banquet room which was furnished with relaxing chairs and a warm fire. We were now celebrating Irish style! Irish dinners were served and the conversations kept the room active.

Friday was going home day. The "D Street" bridge opened at 9 am and the tugs left the Turning Basin. Once out into San Pablo Bay the fairwell's and see-you-next-year's kept the VHF busy.