Sunday, September 17, 2006
State of the Association
Another successful year for NBUA

By Rich Johnson
President

The 2006 Baseball season is about over and it was another successful year on and off the field. Once again, NBUA made more than 10,000 umpire assignments representing more than $500,000 in game fees. Congratulations to all of our members for their hard work and professionalism. NBUA remains one of the premier amateur umpire associations in the nation.

In addition to our efforts on the field, the organization has achieved numerous accomplishments during 2006. Below is a partial list of those accomplishments:

• Implemented Member Services Agreement for all NBUA members
• Established membership requirements for all NBUA members
• Established proper parental waiver requirements for under age members
• Executed service contract with Assignor
• Increased game fees charged to all non-school customers
• Lowered potential assessments for the second consecutive year
• Engaged certified public accountant to provide contract accounting services
• Established and implemented an assignor back-up plan
• Established Membership Liaison Program and position
• Recognized 28 members working more than 100 games in 2005 with gift certificates and special hats
• Successfully defended organization against discrimination lawsuit
• Provided volunteer umpires for two charity events at Safeco Field
• Reduced outstanding accounts receivables from 2005 by more than 60%
• Improved relationships with our biggest customers by meeting with league directors and attending league meetings
• Expanded two-man junior varsity to ALL leagues

2006 was a great year for the Northwest Baseball Umpires Association. Come join us in celebrating this successful year at the end of season Banquet at Maplewood Greens Golf Club on Saturday October 14. The Banquet will begin at 6 p.m. with a no-host bar, followed at 7-7:30 p.m. with a fabulous dinner. Hope to see you all there.