Trademark 2002

The amazing chronology of Historic Ships Memorial at Pacific Square ("HSMPS") is provided on this page.  It is a tale of spirited dedication by the community, Congressional support, and a love of IOWA by her crew, numerous veterans and our Republic's citizens.  Details follow:

1996  

* August - The organization name is filed and its officers and directors are identified.  IOWA has been on the ship donation program list for some years.

* September - HSMPS is formed. 

* November - Senator Barbara Boxer provides her endorsement to relocate IOWA to S.F.

* January - HSMPS receives first official endorsement from the Veterans Affairs Commission, City and County of San Francisco.

1997  

* May - HSMPS visits Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA).

* July - First inspection onboard IOWA is made with engineers and committee members at Philadelphia Naval Shipyard.

* November - Second inspection of IOWA is made, with an emphasis on environmental considerations.

1998  

*March - formal submission of a 250-page application occurs onboard IOWA. The event is covered by national media. 

* May - IOWA is put back on reserve call.

* July - Mayor Willie Brown publicly backs IOWA's relocation.

* August - HSMPS Directors are primary speakers at crew member reunion.

* September - IOWA is towed to Rhode Island from Philadelphia.

* October - Legislation introduced earlier in the year by Senator Dianne Feinstein expressing the sense of Congress that IOWA should be homeported in San Francisco becomes part of the YR1999 defense measure.

1999

* March - Port Commission hears IOWA project.

* April - Ten year commemoration of turret explosion.  HSMPS hosts an unprecedented across-the-nation day of remembrance in San Francisco, Des Moines, and participates in Norfolk ceremony.

* May - HSMPS travels to crew member reunion in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky.  HSMPS works with the community to generate support.  Mayor Willie Brown writes Secretary of the Navy requesting IOWA's relocation. 

* June - Senator Dianne Feinstein championed appropriation legislation supported by Senator Barbara Boxer, Bay Area Congresspeople Nancy Pelosi, Lynn Woolsey, Ellen Tauscher, Barbara Lee, Tom Lantos, Tom Campbell to fund $4 million for IOWA's relocation to California.

* July - Mayor's Office of Emergency Services endorses IOWA's use in case of earthquake in a letter addressed to the Secretary of the Navy.

* October - IOWA receives $3 million appropriation from Congress for relocation to S.F. Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi requests Navy timetable.

2000

* January - HSMPS visits the Pentagon and makes a presentation to Secretary of the Navy staff and submits a 500-page Master Plan complete with engineering work for placing in San Francisco Bay Area, this while IOWA is in reserve status.  That same month Navy announces commissioning of feasibility study for transferring IOWA to the West Coast.  

* February - Navy engineering team arrives at Port of San Francisco and Panama Canal officials arrive aboard IOWA for discussions. 

* March - The Maritime Administration ("MARAD") expresses interest to the Navy for taking care of  IOWA.

* May - MARAD creates pier space in S.F. suitable for IOWA.

* August - California Governor Gray Davis writes the Secretary of the Navy, requesting IOWA's relocation to the San Francisco Bay Area.  Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, State of California forwards official endorsement to Secretary of the Navy.  Same month, HSMPS visits Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington and the Secretary of the Navy's Staff at the Pentagon.  HSMPS hand delivers to the Secretary of the Navy a letter written by the Honorable Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack requesting IOWA's relocation to the Bay Area.

* September - HSMPS addressed crew member association reunion in Corpus Christi, Texas.  Secretary of the Navy, the Honorable Richard J. Danzig, announces that the U.S.S. Iowa will be relocated to the Inactive Ship Facility at Suisun Bay in the San Francisco Bay Area by Spring 2001.

* November - HSMPS met with Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum staff to arrange for an exhibit on BB-61 and began researching ferry rides for school children to see IOWA. 

2001

* January - HSMPS meets with the Port of San Francisco.  Port agrees to a complimentary  berth for IOWA visit and a fire boat welcome, this on the occasion of her arrival under the Golden Gate.  HSMPS is designated as Port representative to the Navy for possible IOWA stop at Piers 30/32, before BB-61 is towed to Suisun Bay.

* March - U.S.S. Iowa at sea under tow and bound for San Francisco via the Panama Canal.      HSMPS meets IOWA at the Panama Canal and is greeted by the Panama Canal Authority.

* April - Marin County Council, Navy League of the United States in association with VFW State of California and HSMPS host a fund raiser on April 18 for IOWA's preservation together with a reception for former crew members and veterans on the eve of IOWA's arrival. Governments from Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Korea are represented as is the Navy and Coast Guard.  Board of Supervisors for the City and County of San Francisco award a Certificate of Honor to HSMPS.  On April 20, at 2400 hours U.S.S. Iowa is towed under the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco Bay!  San Francisco Mayor Willie Brown and Iowa Governor Thomas J. Vilsack declare April, 20 U.S.S. IOWA DAY in San Francisco and U.S.S. IOWA RECOGNITION DAY in the State of IOWA, respectively.  On April 21, IOWA reached the Inactive Ship Facility in Suisun Bay and HSMPS arranged with the United States Air Force for a fly-over in honor of IOWA's arrival.  April 21 was designated by Mayor Steve Messina of the City of Benicia as U.S.S. IOWA DAY.  On April 29, during a Loyalty Day celebration, HSMPS was recognized by the Veterans Affairs Commission of the City and County of San Francisco.

* May - HSMPS is invited to participate in the San Francisco Memorial Day commemoration.

* June - HSMPS addresses the annual crew member reunion in Scottsdale, AZ and meets with National Navy League President, Rear Admiral Jack Fisher USN (ret), who was the guest speaker at this emotional gathering.  HSMPS is represented by the Marin County Council at the Navy League of the United States National Convention in Reno.

* July - HSMPS, with the Navy League, traveled to Travis Air Force Base to meet Brigadier General Kane and the crew of the KC-10 air tanker that over flew IOWA upon her arrival and presented them Certificates of Appreciation as well as IOWA lithographs.   HSMPS and the Navy League presented Certificates of Appreciation to officials from the Western Aerospace Museum, former Presidential Yacht POTOMAC and Oakland Fireboat Unit for their roles in greeting IOWA on April 20.

* August - HSMPS presented Certificates of Appreciation to the City of Vallejo Fireboat Unit in a televised City Council meeting.  HSMPS holds its first Symposium for new and existing committee members. There were 17 attendees.

*  September - HSMPS joins Navy League in the 56th Anniversary of the End of World War II at the IOWA.  The event included spectacular Coast Guard C-130 and dolphin helicopter fly-overs, speeches, KPIX and Times Herald Coverage. 

* October - HSMPS participated in the Columbus Day Parade.  HSMPS addressed the Fleet Reserve Association Navy Ball in Vallejo.  HSMPS attends a 2-hour conference with the head of the Inactive Ship Program, his staff and a representative from the Assistant to the Secretary of the Navy's Office in Washington D.C.  HSMPS attends the U.S. Maritime Conference in Wilmington, NC; a committee member is an instructor. 

* November - HSMPS is invited to join San Francisco's Mayor's Veterans Day Parade. We muster 30 sea cadets, complete with a honor guard and drill team along with our world famous13 foot, 200 pound battleship model and float. We win 2nd place! 

2002

* January - On January 27 there was a monthly fund raising cruise to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay

* February - February 14, HSMPS makes a presentation to the San Francisco Fire Department Commission, thanking the Department for their support when IOWA arrived.  One of SFFD's fireboats met IOWA as she arrived under the Golden Gate.  February 20 - Monthly fund raising cruise to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay.

* March - On March 2 HSMPS meets new VFW State President.  March 4-HSMPS reports to the City of San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission.  March 6 - HSMPS makes a presentation to the Association of Journeyman and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (Local 28) in San Francisco.  March 17 - The Committee participates in the St. Patrick's Day Parade and places 4th.  March 24 - monthly fund raising cruise to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay.  March 27 - HSMPS meets with Naval Sea Systems Command in Washington DC.  March 29 - HSMPS meets with the Naval Historical Center Staff in Washington DC.  March 27 and 28 - We call on the Navy League of the United States at the annual Sea Air Space Expo in Washington DC.

* April - On April 28 there was a monthly fund raising cruise to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay.

* May - On May 5 there was a monthly fund raising cruise to the IOWA.  That day HSMPS also attends Loyalty Day celebrations in San Francisco at the War Memorial Building.  May 6-HSMPS meeting with the Mayor's Commission for Veterans Affairs.  May 16 - HSMPS meets with Mayor Willie Brown.

*  June - On June 7-HSMPS and Capt. L. Jones, head of the Navy's Inactive Ship Command, meet with the leadership of the Port of San Francisco.  The discussions were very productive.  The Port reaffirms its support for bringing the battleship to the San Francisco waterfront.  June 8 - HSMPS joins the Veterans Association of the U.S.S. Iowa and Capt L. Jones USN at the IOWA during the crew's  reunion.  President Ed Cummings represents the organization and makes a presentation to the veterans gathered at the battleship that day.  HSMPS informs the Navy League of the event, which in turns helps arrange with DOD for an Air Force C-5 flyover of the battleship in honor of the crew on June 8.  HSMPS joins the Association at their dinner that evening.  Also that day, HSMPS's Battleship exhibit opens at the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum.  Former crew members of BB-61 visit the exhibit after leaving the battleship.  Following 4 years of support for the battleship project, The Point Broward Sea Cadet Unit is renaming itself the IOWA Division.  June 15 and June 30 fund raising cruises aboard Bay View Charters Sea Victory resulted in taking almost 100 people to see the IOWA. 

*  July - On July 5, HSMPS attends the Veterans Affairs Commission meeting for the City and County of San Francisco.  The Commission agrees to issue an updated letter of support, to be forwarded to the Mayor.  On July 10, Black Tie Productions completes the promotional video-a 6 month effort!  July 11, HSMPS meets with regional VFW leadership.  July 28 witnessed yet another fund raising cruise out to see the IOWA.  On July 29, the Association of Journeyman and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry (Local 28) in San Francisco circulate a letter requesting Bay Area labor to support IOWA's immediate relocation by writing the Mayor, Board of Supervisors and the Port.

* August - On August 6, HSMPS attends the Veterans Affairs Commission meeting for the City and the County of San Francisco.  On August 10, HSMPS attends a VFW function.  On August 25, there was a fund raising cruise to the IOWA.

* September - At the National VFW Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, a resolution is passed supporting (1) IOWA's relocation to San Francisco and (2) the reclassification of BB-61 to donation status.  This resolution will be forwarded to the Department of the Navy.  September 2 - HSMPS attends the Veterans Affairs Commission meeting for the City and the County of San Francisco.  September 7 - HSMPS meets with California State senators and assembly members in Sacramento.  Between September 15-17, HSMPS attends the annual Historic Naval Ships Association conference in Buffalo and delivers a report.  September 22 - HSMPS meets with reporter Mike Whye who is writing a story for the Des Moines Register on the IOWA.  September 20 - HSMPS representatives meeting with the Governor's Regional Director, at which time it is declared that the Governor supports the U.S.S. IOWA project.  September 25 - HSMPS is invited to attend a function hosted by the Saudi Arabian Government in Los Angeles; this invitation stems from the fact that FDR was the first western leader to meet with Saudi leadership and as such is much revered; IOWA is widely acknowledged as his battleship.  September 22 - HSMPS attends San Francisco Port Commission meeting. 

* October - On October 4, one of U.S.S. Iowa's WHALEBOATs arrives!  HSMPS has brought to the West Coast one of IOWA's original whaleboats.  At 26 feet and 8,000 pounds this beauty was towed cross-country.  We paid for the tow while well known marine surveyor and owner Joe Lombardi graciously loaned the boat to HSMPS.  She has been beautifully restored and is fully operational.  Between October 11-13 HSMPS staff managed a promotional booth, courtesy of Pier 39, over Fleet Week in San Francisco.  October 13 - HSMPS helps host visiting naval personnel at a special dinner during Fleet Week Appreciation Night in San Francisco.  On October 22, State Senators John Burton and Jackie Speier along with State Assembly Member Majority Leader Kevin Shelley and Assembly Member Carol Migden sign a joint letter addressed to the Port of San Francisco, endorsing the relocation of the battleship.  October 27 - there was a fund raising cruise to the IOWA by Bay View Charters.  October 29 - HSMPS attends San Francisco Port Commission meeting. 

* November - On November 4, HSMPS attends the monthly Veterans Affairs Commission meeting.  On November 9, the Des Moines Register (the largest paper in the State of IOWA) publishes an article on HSMPS and our efforts to preserve the U.S.S. Iowa.  On November 10, HSMPS participates in San Francisco's Veterans Day Parade.  We have the 13-foot model of the IOWA on top of a van and a vintage, restored 1997 Fire Bird; both vehicles are decorated with U.S.S. IOWA banners.  On November 12, HSMPS attends a Port Commission meeting; at that meeting San Francisco's influential Fisherman's Wharf Association formally endorse bringing IOWA to the San Francisco waterfront.   

* December - On December 17, HSMPS held a symposium and fund raiser at Sinbads Restaurant. State Senator John Burton was a guest speaker. Also present at the symposium was Chairman Rear Admiral Stuart Platt USN (ret), who has just published a book on defense spending titled THE ARMAMENT TIDE, REARMING AMERICA.  On December 29, there was a fund raising and public relations cruise to the IOWA by Bay View Charters.

2003

* January - HSMPS attended the monthly Port Commission meeting (01/14) as well as a Board of Supervisors public hearing.  HSMPS met with marine surveyor and IOWA whaleboat owner Joe Lombardi, concerning purchasing the whaleboat that the committee helped bring out west last year. HSMPS gladly met and discussed the mighty IOWA's history with those who sailed with Bay View Charters to the IOWA on Saturday 26.

* February - HSMPS attended the monthly Port Commission (02/11, 02/25) and the Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission (02/03) meetings in San Francisco.  HSMPS escorted another public relations cruise to the IOWA by Bay View Charters on February 23. 

* March - HSMPS participated in the Saint Patrick Day's Parade in San Francisco on March 16. Joined by the O'Kane sea cadet division, the HSMPS contingent consisted of our 13-foot model of the U.S.S. Iowa and a vintage 1974 Firebird in mint condition, all decked out in green   We were invited and joined this year's Memorial Day Committee planning session on April 16.  HSMPS attended the monthly Port Commission (03/11, 03/25) and the Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission meetings (03/03) in San Francisco.  HSMPS representatives joined Bay View Charters for another cruise to the IOWA in Suisun Bay on March 30.

* April - April 22, HSMPS attended a Port Commission meeting.  April 24, HSMPS representatives joined Bay View Charters for another cruise with visitors to see the IOWA.  HSMPS provides historical information about the battleship and its possible future.  On April 27, HSMPS joined the VFW in San Francisco to commemorate "Loyalty Day" (HSMPS representatives were asked to speak!)

* May - HSMPS photographer Jeremy Bonelle provided photographs of the IOWA to Land Line Magazine.  On May 10, HSMPS joined as historians a special charter by Bay View Charters to the IOWA.  May 13 and 27, HSMPS attended Port Commission meetings.  May 18, saw HSMPS representatives join the liberty ship S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien during a fund raiser cruise.  On May 25, HSMPS provided docents for a Bay View Charters cruise to BB-61.  On May 26, HSMPS attended Memorial Day proceedings at the Presidio in San Francisco, where we brought a 13-foot model of the IOWA (courtesy of the Western Warship Club) and collected donations and signatures.  

* June -  On June 2, HSMPS made a presentation to the VFW (South San Francisco).  On June12 and June 24, HSMPS attended Port Commission meetings.   On June 25, HSMPS attended a Fleet Week meeting in San Francisco, as we have a large booth at Pier 39, which gets much attention.  On June 29, HSMPS provided docents for a Bay View Charters cruise to BB-61. 

* July - On July 19, HSMPS held the 'IOWA Fair" in Martinez.  KSFO was a proud sponsor.  There were lots of booths and the staff did a great job of setting up some fabulous exhibits.  On July 16, HSMPS attends a Port of San Francisco meeting.  On July 27, HSMPS escorts another Bay View Charters cruise out to the IOWA.

* August -  On August 9, HSMPS joined the Sea Scouts for another foray of public cruises to the IOWA.  August 16-17, HSMPS attends the Veterans Association of the U.S.S. Iowa reunion in Norfolk, VA.  August 24, HSMPS staff escort another Bay View charter cruise to the IOWA.  August 30-31, HSMPS mans a fair booth in Suisun City, CA, along with the Sea Scouts. 

* September - Between September 13-14, HSMPS joins other worldwide naval and maritime museum leaders at the Historic Naval Ship Association annual conference, this year at the naval underwater warfare museum in Keyport, Washington.  HSMPS staff also met with Naval Sea Systems Command staff at this function and discussed the IOWA.  HSMPS was instrumental in helping to arrange for U.S.S. Missouri participation at the HNSA conference.  September 27-28, HSMPS joined the Sea Scouts in Suisun City, CA, to man a booth at that city's fair.

* October - Between October 11-13, HSMPS fielded 10 representatives for two days at two locations during San Francisco's famed Fleet Week.  We also participated in the Columbus Day Parade.  HSMPS made a sizable contribution to host sailors at this year's Fleet Week Appreciation Night dinner and show on October 13.  On October 27, HSMPS traveled to Sacramento to make a major presentation to the Sacramento Navy League. 

* November - On November 3, HSMPS and the Port met with the leadership of the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute at the Port of San Francisco's main offices to discuss the berthing of the IOWA in San Francisco.  On Saturday, November 8, HSMPS participates in the Veteran's Day Parade in Sacramento.  On Sunday, November 9, HSMPS marches in the San Francisco Veteran's Day Parade. On November 13-14, HSMPS was honored to be invited to Franklin D. Roosevelt's estate in Hyde Park, New York, by the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute; this to participate in the opening of the Wallace Center (FDR's Vice President).  It was here that HSMPS was honored to be designated an "official" Roosevelt historical site by the Institute.  On November 19, HSMPS holds its annual BIG STICK symposium at Sinbads restaurant in San Francisco for new and old supporters.

* December - On December 16, HSMPS and an associate of the Roosevelt Institute took a special cruise out to the IOWA.  This orientation cruise was very successful.

2004

* January - HSMPS attends Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission meeting in San Francisco.  The Commission is requesting the mayor's support for the IOWA.

* February - HSMPS prepares new flyer for school districts about seeing the IOWA from Bay View Charters cruises.  The promotional video script is also being reviewed for changes.  On February 29, two packed cruises to see the IOWA occurred.

* March - On March 1, HSMPS attended and briefed the Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission on progress.  The Commission reaffirmed its support, pledging to continue its efforts to work with the Mayor on bringing the IOWA to San Francisco.  On March 4th, HSMPS had a two vehicle float in the Saint Patrick's parade in San Francisco.  As usual, the 14 foot model of the IOWA and the 1974 Firebird drew much attention.   In March, HSMPS also met with the Korean Chamber of Commerce to discuss that community's support for the project.

* April - HSMPS attends Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission meeting in San Francisco. On April 25 HSMPS committee members led another Bay View Charter cruise out to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay. 

* May - On May 11, HSMPS escorted the Korean Consulate General and his staff on a cruise out to see the IOWA.  The U.S.S. Iowa served on the gun line off the Korean Coast during the Korean War.  Former crewmembers accompanied us on this cruise.  The Korean Government celebrated the excellent relationship between the U.S. and Korea and made a generous donation to HSMPS.  On May 12, HSMPS manned a booth at a veterans job fair in San Francisco.  On May 14, HSMPS met with San Francisco Mayor Newsom's senior staff.  The Mayor's office pledged its support.  On May 17, HSMPS made a presentation to San Francisco Office of Emergency Services (OES), interim head Rich Shortall.  That office pledged its full endorsement of IOWA's use as a disaster command and control center.  On May 18, HSMPS met with the San Francisco Tourist and Convention Center to discuss IOWA's impact on the local economy.  That organization pledged its support for the battleship's placement along the San Francisco waterfront.

* June - On June 6, HSMPS joined in a radio transmission from the S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien that linked all four IOWA-class battleships that took to the air-waves in radio broadcasts.  The S.S. Jeremiah O'Brien stood-in for the U.S.S. Iowa (in reserve status) in this transcontinental and trans-Pacific event.  In June, HSMPS attended another Mayor's Veterans Affairs Commission meeting in San Francisco as well as a Port Commission meeting.  On June 26 and June 27, HSMPS leads a total of three cruises out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  That month, HSMPS also met with Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi's staff.

* July - HSMPS joined a commemorative cruise aboard the Presidential yacht POTOMAC to honor Admiral Callaghan (naval aid to FDR).  IOWA was FDR's battleship.  On July 25, HSMPS led two charters out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  On July 31, HSMPS volunteers worked on restoring our 29-foot whaleboat, actually off the U.S.S. Iowa. 

* August - HSMPS gave a presentation to the Santa Clara Council of the Navy League in the first half of the month.  HSMPS attended a San Francisco Port Commission meeting.  Volunteers gathered for a day in Sonoma to work on our 19-foot whaleboat off the IOWA.

* September - HSMPS volunteers manned a booth on September 12 along the San Francisco Embarcadero to gather signatures during the San Francisco Prix of Cycling.  The battleship project saw hundreds of supporters that day.  Between September 16 and September 19 HSMPS met the Veterans Association of the U.S.S. Iowa in Lafayette, Louisiana at their annual reunion.  We gave a status report and showed our new promotional video.  We were very well received by the crew and once more received unflinching support.  On September 26, HSMPS led a Bay View charter out to see the IOWA in Suisun Bay.  In September, HSMPS made presentations and gave commentary before the San Francisco Port Commission.

* October - On October 4, HSMPS gave a presentation to the Vallejo Council of the Navy League of the United States.  October 9-October 10, HSMPS manned two booths over Fleet Week.  Thousands visited our stands and exhibits (including our 13-foot model) to learn more about the project and sign petitions endorsing the battleship's placement in San Francisco.  Even naval officers and chiefs encouraged HSMPS staff to bring U.S.S. Iowa to San Francisco.  HSMPS also participated in both the Double 10 Day Parade on October 9 in San Francisco's famed Chinatown (winning a prize for our display) and the Columbus Day Parade in the City's Italian Quarter on October 10.  On October 11, HSMPS donated funds to host sailors at Fleet Week Appreciation, a USO styled dinner-show for the Fleet.  At that event San Francisco Supervisor Peskin was a guest speaker.  He told the Fleet that he was planning on homeporting the U.S.S. Iowa as a naval memorial and museum.  There were loud applause.  October 12 saw HSMPS at a San Francisco Port Commission meeting where our management astounded all with an analysis of pier compatibility and load factors for IOWA and other visiting maritime traffic.  At that hearing, HSMPS produced a letter from Mayor Newsom describing certain berthing options for the U.S.S. Iowa.  HSMPS recommendations were taken under consideration (and later enacted).  October 16, HSMPS staff joined senior members of the VFW for a briefing on the status of the U.S.S. Iowa and motored out to see BB-61 courtesy of the Solano Maritime Foundation and the Sea Scouts of America.  The VFW reaffirmed its support for HSMPS.  On October 21, HSMPS dined with the Consul General of the Republic of Korea at a lunch hosted by the Korean American Chamber of Commerce.  IOWA fought on the gun-line off the Korean Coast during the Korean conflict and is highly regarded by the Korean Government.  October 24, HSMPS staff joined Bay View Charters as narrators on yet another packed cruise for the paying public to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  October 27-31, HSMPS journeyed to Norfolk to attend the Annual Historic Naval Ships Association Conference.  We were joined there by the Veterans Association of the U.S.S. Iowa.  Together, we formed one of the largest contingents at the conference.  In Norfolk, we met with representatives of the Navy and discussed our progress.  That meeting with Naval Sea Systems Command was extremely productive.  October 26 found HSMPS at another Port Commission meeting at which HSMPS made further comments supporting IOWA's value.  At this San Francisco Port Commission meeting, HSMPS learned that certain recommendations it had advanced on an identified pier permitting space for the berthing of historic ships along the northern waterfront were adopted.

* November - November 1, HSMPS visits members of Congress in Washington.  November 7, HSMPS is once more invited to participate in San Francisco's Veterans Day Parade.  On November 9, HSMPS again presents itself before the San Francisco Port Commission.  November 20, committee members work on one of IOWA's whaleboats that is in our possession.  November 28, HSMPS escorts another cruise for the paying public out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* December - HSMPS attended the monthly San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission meeting. December 7, HSMPS and the Port of San Francisco meet a delegation from the Navy to discuss bringing the battleship to San Francisco. The Port informed the Navy that it wanted the U.S.S. Iowa retired here in San Francisco. HSMPS held its annual symposium on the IOWA and the progress toward bringing the battleship to San Francisco. Our new promotional video was aired. Over 100 attended the December 7 function. Our guest speaker was an official from the maritime administration. In December, HSMPS was invited to meet the San Francisco Korean Chamber of Commerce. The South Korean people have never forgotten the aid the U.S.S. Iowa provided in defending their country. HSMPS attended and testified at a Port of San Francisco commission meeting. December 30, HSMPS Directors and staff met and greeted Secretary of the Navy Gordon England at a public function as he prepared to attend the Emerald Bowl football game in San Francisco.

2005

* January (log forthcoming)

* February (log forthcoming)

* March (log forthcoming)

* April - April 4, HSMPS attended City and County of San Francisco Veteran's Affairs Commission meeting. April 8, HSMPS and its engineers met with the Bay Conservation and Development Commission to discuss pier assignments for IOWA. April 11, HSMPS made a presentation to the North Beach Neighbors Association. April 12, we attend another Port Commission meeting. April 16, HSMPS mans a booth and is honored at the City of Benicia Opening Day Ceremonies. April 16, committee members work on our whaleboat. April 19, HSMPS makes a presentation at the Coalition of San Francisco Neighborhoods and receives a resolution, forwarded to Mayor Newsom, endorsing the berthing of the U.S.S. Iowa in San Francisco. April 23-25, HSMPS Directors visit the Veterans Affairs Commissioner for the State of Iowa and Governor of Iowa, the Honorable Thomas J. Vilsack. The Governor presents a letter of support to HSMPS and places his administration behind bringing his state's namesake battleship to San Francisco. HSMPS meets former Governor Terry Branstad and is offered his support. April 24, HSMPS escorts a Suisun Bay cruise of visitors to see the U.S.S. Iowa. April 26, HSMPS attends another Port of San Francisco Commission meeting. April 28, HSMPS makes a presentation at the Military Officers Association, Solano Chapter. April 29, HSMPS engineers and Directors inspect Pier 48. April 30, HSMPS escorts a group to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* May - May 1, HSMPS attends a Navy League function and is recognized by the Napa County Navy League, Yountville Veterans Home.  May 2, HSMPS attends a City and County of San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission meeting.  May 10, HSMPS attends a Port of San Francisco meeting.  May 11, HSMPS Director Bill Stephens addresses the Vallejo Convention and Visitors Bureau. May 17, HSMPS attends the Fisherman's Wharf Advisory group meeting.  May 19, HSMPS attends National Maritime Day lunch and meets San Francisco Port Director. Our project is announced. May 22, we escort visitors aboard Bay View Charters out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  May 22, HSMPS visits U.S.S. Missouri in Pearl Harbor and is given a special tour and briefing by that memorial's staff. Visitor safety program and environmental issues are addressed.  May 23, HSMPS addresses the Board of Supervisors of the City and County of San Francisco.  May 29, HSMPS attends a Memorial Day Ceremony. May 30, HSMPS attends the City's main Memorial Day Ceremony and is honored in the program for its efforts to bring the U.S.S. Iowa to San Francisco. Our exhibit is overwhelmed with visitors. 

* June - June 1, HSMPS formally presents the Port its Proposal for Berthing the U.S.S. Iowa at the Port of San Francisco. This nearly 200-page long document is a business plan that address all aspects of bringing the battleship to San Francisco and satisfies the Port's "Historic Ship Policy".  June 1, we attend a Board of Supervisors meeting at City Hall.  June 2-3, HSMPS visits the U.S.S. Wisconsin in Norfolk and meets with caretaker staff. June 6, HSMPS is represented at the Veterans Affairs Commission in San Francisco.  June 6-7, we visit Congress.  June 7, HSMPS testifies to San Francisco's Board of Supervisors.  June 14, HSMPS attends and testifies at a Port of San Francisco Commission meeting.  That same day, HSMPS attends a City Board of Supervisors meeting and addresses Commissioners.  June 24, HSMPS and Port leadership meet with Navy officials. Navy requests and is given a copy of our formal proposal to the Port.  That evening, HSMPS attends and is honored at a Korean War Veterans Diner in San Francisco. In attendance is the Korean Consul General. Our 13- foot model of the U.S.S. Iowa is photographed by the San Francisco Chronicle.

* July - July 5, HSMPS addresses the Sacramento Council of the Navy League. July 6, HSMPS resolution to back Congressional action supporting San Francisco's bid for the IOWA was passed in Land Use Committee of the Board of Supervisors for the City of San Francisco. July 12, HSMPS resolution to win Board of Supervisors support for bringing the IOWA to San Francisco is defeated. The proposal had garnered 50% of needed votes after passing subcommittee review. July 12, the Korean American Chamber of Commerce unanimously pass a resolution supporting the berthing of the U.S.S. Iowa in San Francisco.  Same day HSMPS attends and testifies at a Port of San Francisco Commission meeting.  July 14, Jean Burns of KGO AM 810 Talkshow did a piece on the IOWA and San Francisco Board of Supervisors, supporting the battleship's placement in San Francisco.  July 14, San Francisco Examiner editorial criticizes Board of Supervisors for not supporting the IOWA. Senator Feinstein blasts Board of Supervisors for not endorsing the U.S.S. Iowa.  July 18, IOWA work party sands 30 foot whaleboat.  July 27, HSMPS attends Port of San Francisco Commission meeting.  July 29, NBC Channel 11 interviews Director Bill Stephens about U.S.S. Iowa, Board of Supervisors and efforts to place the battleship in San Francisco.  July 31, HSMPS escorts another BayView Charter cruise to see the IOWA.

* August - August 1 NBC (Channel 11) does a feature on HSMPS.  August 1, HSMPS attends Veterans Affairs Commission meeting. On August 6 HSMPS puts in another hard day of work on our IOWA whaleboat.  August 9, HSMPS attends and testifies at a Port Commission meeting.  August 20 (on or around), AOL survey shows 89% of America believes City Supervisors were wrong in voting against bringing the U.S.S. Iowa to San Francisco.  August 27, another workday on the whaleboat.  August 23, HSMPS attends and testifies at Port Commission meeting.  On August 28 HSMPS leads yet another cruise out to see the IOWA.

* September - The organization met with Veterans Affairs Commissioners in San Francisco.  On 09/25, HSMPS staff escorted yet another Bay View Charters cruise out to see the battleship

* October - HSMPS joins the crew reunion.  HSMPS sponsored a rally on 10/04 at City Hall in San Francisco to support berthing the U.S.S. Iowa.  The organization sets up a Fleet Week booth at Pier 39 (courtesy of Pier 39 management).  Staff attended the monthly Veterans Affairs Commission meeting in San Francisco.  The effort is featured on the nationally broadcast "Daily Show" and in the Los Angeles Times.  The organization hosts visiting crewmembers to Fleet Week's largest dinner and show, "Fleet Week Appreciation Night".  On 10/30, the organization escorts as narrators yet another charter cruise out to see U.S.S. Iowa. 

* November - HSMPS participated with two car displays in the Veterans Day Parade in San Francisco.  The organization attended the monthly Veterans Affairs Commission meeting.  Committee members met with Congresswoman Lynne Woolsey in Marin County.  We again served as escorts on a charter out to see the IOWA.  San Francisco Supervisors Maxwell and Ma meet with HSMPS to discuss U.S.S. Iowa.  President Merylin Wong appears in a KCBS radio broadcast on November 20.  Committee members continue restoration of our whaleboat from the U.S.S. Iowa.

* December - On December 5, HSMPS is invited to attend a VFW dinner in San Francisco.  Committee members continue to work on our whaleboat.  The San Francisco Chronicle runs a favorable article about the U.S.S. Iowa.  On December 30, HSMPS sponsors an event for the organization celebrating the Committee's courage and commitment.

2006

* January - The organization addresses waterfront communities in San Francisco.  HSMPS works on an internal feasibility study of Mare Island in Vallejo as a berthing site for U.S.S. Iowa. 

* February - HSMPS attends the monthly Veterans Affairs Commission meeting in San Francisco.  HSMPS continues an internal feasibility study of Mare Island in Vallejo as a berthing site for U.S.S. Iowa. 

* March - HSMPS is invited to meet with the San Francisco Giants baseball team to educate that organization about the U.S.S. Iowa.  On 03/26, HSMPS meets with the business community in Vallejo at a Chamber of Commerce organized event.  HSMPS escorts an 03/26 cruise out to see the battleship.  In March, San Francisco Port Commissioners votes to provide time to allow HSMPS to begin a feasibility study and to commence raising funding.  The organization attends a monthly San Francisco Veterans Affairs Commission meeting.  HSMPS continues its internal feasibility study of Mare Island in Vallejo as a berthing site for U.S.S. Iowa. 

*April - HSMPS is invited to set-up a booth at the San Francisco Emergency Response Symposium upon the commemoration of the 1906 earthquake.  This booth describes the emergency uses the battleship offers--berthing, communication capabilities, etc.  The organization is in a City parade with police and fire department units.  San Francisco Chronicle poll shows that San Franciscans support berthing the U.S.S. Iowa by a factor of two to one.  The Vallejo Times Herald runs an article on the U.S.S. Iowa coming to Vallejo.  On April 20, HSMPS meets Vallejo City Council members and the mayor at a social function in Vallejo.  The organization is invited to a Korean American Chamber of Commerce lunch in San Francisco.  HSMPS escorts a cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa in Suisun Bay on April 30.

* May - The City Council for the City of Vallejo votes unanimously to support bringing the U.S.S. Iowa to Vallejo.  HSMPS meets twice in May with the Lennar Corporation (that is developing Mare Island)and the City of Vallejo to begin planning for the U.S.S. Iowa at Mare Island.  The Committee boards U.S.S. Iowa twice in May for engineering inspections.  The Vallejo Fire Department inspects the battleship and begins to work with HSMPS on fire and safety plans for visitors aboard the battleship. On May 28, Committee members escort yet another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  The organization attends the Memorial Day ceremonies at the Presidio National Cemetery in San Francisco, sets up an information booth and is honored in the day's published program as a community project.  Hundreds of signatures are collected for a petition being delivered to the Navy.

* June - HSMPS selects an economic feasibility consultant for a Mare Island location.  The organization also commissioned a survey of the Mare Island Straits.  HSMPS sets up an information booth at the weekly Wednesday evening fair in downtown Vallejo while continuing to operate a booth at the Saturday farmers market.  A HSMPS work party spends time painting our whaleboat that was once on the battleship.  On June 15, HSMPS makes a presentation to the Glen Cove Community Association in Vallejo.  HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the IOWA.

* July - HSMPS makes an engineering survey of U.S.S. Iowa.  The organization continues to meet with the Vallejo Fire Department.  HSMPS sets up an information booth at the weekly Wednesday evening fair in downtown Vallejo while continuing to operate a booth at the Saturday farmers market.  Hundreds upon hundreds of signatures are gathered for a petition supporting bringing IOWA to Vallejo. The organization appears in Bay Area print media.  On July 30, the organization escorts a cruise out to see the battleship.

* August - HSMPS spends 4 days aboard U.S.S. Iowa conducting an engineering study.  On August 27, the organization takes another group out to see the battleship.  HSMPS sets up a booth at the weekly Wednesday evening fair in downtown Vallejo while continuing to operate a booth at the Saturday farmers market.  Hundreds upon hundreds of signatures are gathered for a petition supporting bringing IOWA to Vallejo. The organization continues to prepare a proposal for the Navy.

* September - HSMPS sets up an information booth at the weekly Wednesday evening fair in downtown Vallejo while continuing to operate a booth at the Saturday farmers market. Hundreds of signatures are gathered for a petition supporting bringing IOWA to Vallejo.  On September 20, HSMPS meets with local businesses on Mare Island to establish communications and common ground.  The meeting is an outstanding success.  The organization escorts another cruise out to see the battleship.  The organization continues to prepare a proposal for the Navy.

* October - HSMPS conducts another ship check aboard U.S.S. Iowa in early October.  HSMPS is offered a booth at Pier 39 in San Francisco over Fleet Week (October 6-8) to project bringing the battleship to Mare Island, Vallejo.  The organization operates the booth with visitors three roles deep asking questions about the project while the Blue Angels scream by a few hundred feet overhead.  HSMPS participates in the Columbus Day Parade in San Francisco with a float that advertises the battleship at Mare Island.  HSMPS makes a presentation to the Napa City Council.  HSMPS attends a Bay Planning Commission meeting.  The organization completes a promotional film.  On 10/24, the organization makes a presentation to the Solano County Supervisors.  A public service announcement begins running on KSFO, one for the Bay Area's most popular talk show radios.  HSMPS sets up a booth at the weekly Saturday farmers market in Vallejo.  HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the IOWA.  The organization completes a voluminous proposal for the U.S.S. Iowa and hand delivers this in-depth business plan to the Navy along with a multi-media presentation in Washington DC. 

* November - HSMPS staffs its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo. KSFO radio airs a new public service announcement for the IOWA in Vallejo.  HSMPS deploys a float for the Veterans Day Parade in San Francisco showcasing the battleship in nearby Vallejo.  On November 13, HSMPS makes a presentation to the Kiwans Club of Benicia.  The organization escorts a cruise out to see the battleship.

* December - HSMPS staffs its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  On December 2, HSMPS escorts two cruises out to see the IOWA for the Vietnam Veterans of America (Fresno Chapter).  On December 9, HSMPS held a round of veterans interviews with former crew members.  These interviews are filmed for our oral history program.  On December 12, HSMPS engineers inspect the U.S.S. Iowa.  On December 14, HSMPS gave a presentation to the Rotary Club of Napa County.  On December 15,  HSMPS representatives participated in a Bay Planning Coalition meeting in San Francisco attended by all bay front cities and big businesses using the bay.  On December 29, HSMPS held a successful fundraiser in Vallejo, attended by the Mayors of Vallejo and San Pablo.  At month-end, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

2007

* January - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  HSMPS staff work on proposal updates for the Navy. At month-end, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* February - HSMPS staff its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  HSMPS staffed work on proposal updates for the Navy. HSMPS attends the Solano County Economic Conference on February 15.  On February 22, HSMPS holds another fundraiser in Vallejo.  At month-end, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* March - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  HSMPS made a presentation to the Rotary Club of Tiburon.  This month, HSMPS completed its Phase Two Proposal for the IOWA.  This updated proposal included answers to Navy questions as well as updates to almost every chapter of our large and in-depth proposal to the Navy.  A team of HSMPS presenters flew to Washington to deliver the proposal and made a multi-media presentation.  At month-end, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* April - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  HSMPS attends an April 12, Bay Planning Coalition Conference in San Francisco.  On April 19, HSMPS welcomes Navy inspection team to Vallejo.  At month-end, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* May - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  The organization also opens a second booth at the Thursday evening fair held in nearby Benicia each week. On May 2, HSMPS traveled to Washington DC and attended a naval award function in the Senate Building.  During this event, representatives met senior Navy leadership.  On May 9, HSMPS was interviewed over the radio.  On May 16, HSMPS representatives attended a Vallejo Convention and Visitors Bureau meeting.  The organization joins the Vallejo Convention Bureau.   On May 21, HSMPS maintenance and museum teams visit U.S.S. Missouri Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.  Valuable maintenance and environmental recommendations are made by MISSOURI management, who were informative and courteous hosts.  On May 24, HSMPS attends a Vallejo Chamber of Commerce mixer.  The organization joins the Vallejo Chamber of Commerce.  On May 27, HSMPS escorts another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  May 30, HSMPS is honored during Memorial Day remembrance ceremonies held in San Francisco's Presidio.  The organization has a public relations stand at the latter event.  KSFO 560 AM continues to run public service announcements.

 * June - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  The organization also maintains another booth at the Thursday evening fair held in Benicia each week.  June 2, HSMPS and three Bay Area mayors greet the Chief of Naval Operations to demonstrated support for the Navy and the U.S.S. Iowa in Vallejo.  June 4, HSMPS attends a local Navy League meeting in Vallejo.  On June 16-17, HSMPS has a booth at the Vallejo Pirates Festival, attended by almost 23,000!  The booth was enormously successful.  On June 19, HSMPS attends Solano County Economic Summit.  This month local Bay Area architects surface and join the committee.  During the month, HSMPS whaleboat crew meet and continue their work.  June 24, HSMPS escorts another tour of the mothball fleet to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* July - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  The organization also maintains another booth at the Thursday evening fair held in nearby Benicia each week.  A third information booth is opened Wednesday evening during the Vallejo summer fair.  July 4, HSMPS has a large float in Vallejo's 4th of July Parade.  July 11-15, HSMPS staffs an information booth at the Solano County Fair.  HSMPS whaleboat crew meet and continue their work.  On July 18, HSMPS designers visit the pier site and inspect buildings on the property for conversion prospects.  Detailed technical data on structures are provided by the Lennar Corporation.  New and revised plans for the pier site are completed.  On July 21, HSMPS representatives are invited to the 63rd Commemoration of the Port Chicago explosion at the Concord Naval Weapons Station.  HSMPS representatives meet with Department of Defense officials on the facility.  On July 29, HSMPS staff escort another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* August - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  The organization also maintains another booth at the Thursday evening fair held in nearby Benicia each week.  HSMPS video crew commences filming our latest promotional video in "high definition".  We were pleased to be joined by the O'Kane Division of the Navy League Sea Cadets who participated in the filming.  HSMPS engineers visit the berthing site on Mare Island and gather more measurements.  New and enhanced drawings of the berth site are prepared.  The City of Vallejo Planning Department gets to see plans for the pier site, including museum buildings, landscaping, parking and more. Our IOWA whaleboat receives its third coat of paint.  HSMPS staff escort another cruise out to see the U.S.S. Iowa.

* September - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  On September 13, HSMPS sets up a booth at the California Maritime Academy in Vallejo at the invitation of the school's administration.  Later in the month, HSMPS escorts a Bay View Charter cruise to see the IOWA.  The whaleboat crew puts another weekend of work into refurbishing the organization's whaleboat-"Little Iowa".  An important meeting is held with the Lennar Corporation who manages Mare Island, Congressional representatives and the City of Vallejo to discuss commercial activity near the pier site.  HSMPS staff travel out of state to meet with consultants.

* October - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  October 6 - 7, HSMPS establishes a booth at popular Pier 39 in San Francisco during Fleet Week.  Staff are overwhelmed with inquiries about the U.S.S. Iowa.  Lines of people 3 rows deep at times surrounded the booth.  Many donations are received.  Support for the IOWA was very, very strong.  October 9-12, HSMPS representatives attend the Historic Naval Ships Association Annual Conference in San Diego aboard the aircraft carrier museum U.S.S. Midway.  HSMPS staff meet with Navy representatives to discuss the U.S.S. Iowa.  At that meeting, updated pier plans are submitted and other important information is exchanged.  On October 13, HSMPS is invited and celebrates the Navy's birthday with the Fleet Reserve Association at a gala dinner.  The organization meets the future President of the Fleet Reserve Association.  On October 23, HSMPS is invited to attend a meeting of candidates running for positions on the Vallejo City Council.  On October 27, HSMPS work crews are hard at work repairing IOWA's whaleboat (that is owned by the organization).  On October 28, the organization escorts a cruise to the IOWA; afterward HSMPS film crew, veterans of the U.S.S. Iowa and Navy League Sea Cadets from the O'Kane Division board Bay View Charters to finish shooting segments of our latest promotional film in high definition, with the U.S.S. Iowa as a backdrop. 

* November - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support.  HSMPS participated in the San Francisco Veterans Day Parade.  HSMPS received formal notification that it had been selected as the most viable candidate for custodianship of U.S.S. Iowa.  HSMPS began contacting donors with the news that the organization's in-depth proposal and business plan had passed muster with the Navy and that it was being viewed as the final nominee to receive the U.S.S. Iowa on completion of funding.  HSMPS met with Congresswoman Lynne Woolsey at her birthday party on November 3.  The Congresswoman has supported the U.S.S. Iowa's placement in the Bay Area. On November 6, HSMPS Board members flew to New York City and attended the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Four Freedom Awards dinner.  There our organization met with Directors and management of the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute to discuss the FDR memorial aboard the U.S.S. Iowa.

* December - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month), collecting signatures of support and providing information.  HSMPS architects and design team met with the Lennar Corporation and the City of Vallejo to review the pier site plan.   HSMPS gave a presentation to the Vallejo Chamber of Commerce.  The organization attended a county economic conference.  On December 16, HSMPS traveled  to Des Moines where the organization's leadership met with Governor Chester Culver and prior Governor Terry Brandstad.  These discussions were very productive and far reaching in consequence.  The organization held talks with the Navy while in Iowa on December 17.  On December 29, HSMPS sponsored a successful fund raiser dinner in Vallejo.

2008

* January - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month).  HSMPS funding team left San Francisco to meet potential donors in the Los Angeles basin.  Committee members worked on the organization's whaleboat.  On 01/27 HSMPS escorted two cruises to see the U.S.S. Iowa.  HSMPS met with one of the Bay Area's largest radio stations (KFSO), which is supporting the project. 

* February - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month).  HSMPS funding team left San Francisco to meet with Iowa State officials and prior Iowa Governor Terry Branstad in Des Moines.  This was the second visit in three months.  State officials were brought abreast of the latest developments on the project, and plans were made for a visit by State representatives to the battleship.  On February 14, HSMPS leadership held discussions with a prominent fund raising group in IOWA.  Later in February, HSMPS representatives met with the President of the influential internet company Military.com to discuss their potential involvement and support.  Committee members finished working on the hull and most of the cockpit area of the organization's whaleboat (off the IOWA).  The organization escorted another set of cruises out to see the IOWA.

* March - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month).  HSMPS welcomed a representative from the Governor's office of the State of Iowa at the Suisun Bay Reserve Fleet.  We provided a tour of the U.S.S. Iowa for this State dignitary.  To say that the ship visit was a great success would be an understatement.  We next anticipate that Iowa Governor Chet Culver plans to board the U.S.S. Iowa for an inspection.  A week later, HSMPS flew to Washington D.C. and met with Navy officials to discuss financial and operational issues of the project, especially the timeline for moving the battleship and dredging.  The Navy informed HSMPS of potential dredging plans along Mare Island, including IOWA's project berth.  HSMPS representatives met with Iowa and California Congressional delegations (both the Senate and House) and updated all on progress made.  Within two weeks Congressional letters of support for accelerated dredging in the Mare Island Straits by the BRAC Commission were filed with the Department of the Navy.  This included the entire Iowa State delegation and national leaders from California.  In Washington,  HSMPS representatives attended the largest military exhibition in the country, the Navy League's, Sea-Air-Space Expo.  There HSMPS representatives met with key management figures of defense companies and attended a private reception with Navy League of the United States leadership.  On returning to the Bay Area, HSMPS representatives met with the Mayor of Vallejo for a briefing on the progress of the project.  The organization escorted another set of cruises out to see the IOWA.

* April -  HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month).  HSMPS attended 25th anniversary celebration of the Bay Planning Coalition which advises on dredging in San Francisco Bay.  On April 19, HSMPS held a ceremony in Vallejo to commemorate the 19th anniversary of the tragic gun turret explosion aboard IOWA.  This event appeared on Bay Area televised news.   On April 26, HSMPS met Navy staff at a Restoration and Advisory Board meeting in Vallejo addressing remediation efforts on Mare Island and at U.S.S. IOWA's future berth.  Key HSMPS HAZMAT  personnel visited the chief engineer aboard the aircraft carrier museum U.S.S. Midway in San Diego.  HSMPS escorted two cruises out to see the IOWA.

* May - HSMPS staffed its booth at the Saturday farmers market in Vallejo (each Saturday of the month).  On May 2, HSMPS joined the environmental manager of Lennar Mare Island Co. and a demotion company to inspect pier side buildings.  On May 2, HSMPS fundraising staff met with potential donors in southern California.  On May 8, HSMPS leadership flew to IOWA and met with professional fundraisers in Des Moines.  In Des Moines HSMPS representatives met with state officials and other political leaders.  HSMPS met the National President of the Navy League (Mike McGrath) on May 10 in Vallejo while addressing a regional Navy League meeting.  On May 14, HSMPS attended Vallejo's annual tourism luncheon sponsored by the Vallejo Convention and Visitors Bureau.  In May, a leading Bay Area engineering firm donated its Navy approved software and time to validate certain mooring calculations.

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