2023 December Grosse Pointer _ Special Edition

DECEMBER 2023 | VOL. 1 ISSUE 13

MEET THE COMMODORE PAGE 5

A YEAR IN REVIEW PAGE 10

UPCOMING EVENTS PAGE 16

GPYC TEAM SPOTLIGHT PAGE 28

LOOKING AFT PAGE 30

A M O NT H LY M A G A Z I NE O F T H E G R O S S E P O I NT E YA C H T C L UB

Content

Jennifer Benoit

Editor

4

Commodore's Corner

Contributing Editor

5

Meet the Board

6

Notes from the Manager

8-9

Meet the commodore

Alexa Coole Kaylee Gerniski Heather Shock Aaron Wagner Peter Wendzinski

Publisher

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club 788 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 (313) 884-2500 www.gpyc.org

Advertising Director

Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org

Graphic Designer

Heather Shock hshock@gpyc.org

Writers

Aaron Wagner Commodore William Dillon Dr. Larry Stephenson Vice Commodore Robert Weiland Heather Aldrich Jennifer Benoit Alexa Coole Heather Shock Peter Wendzinski

Photographer

10-11

A year in review

12

Did you know?

13

The Grosse Pointer Magazines are published twelve times a year under contract with the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

Postmaster, send address changes to: The Grosse Pointer, 788 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 Grosse Pointe Yacht Club ©2023 - all rights reserved.

This publication is the property of the GPYC, for member use only. No unauthorized use, sale or dissemination of information herein shall be made for commercial, personal or other purposes, without the written permission of the GPYC.

To your Health / Trap Shooting

15

up your alley

16-17

upcoming events

20-21 culinary excellence

A Traditional Christmas Dinner

22 23

John F. Martin Photography, Inc.

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Established 1914 788 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 (313) 884-2500 www.gpyc.org

Com. William Dillon

Wine of the month Membership matters / 12 days of christmas

24-26 Club highlights 28

GPYC Team Spotlight

29

GPYC News

30

Looking Aft

31

2023 december/2024 January Calendar

3

it's the Holiday Season This month's cover photo, taken by John F. Martin photography, is a sweet moment captured with Santa from our annual Santa Brunch.

As a kid, visiting Santa for Christmas was always an exciting and magical experience. It usually involved going to a local shopping mall or a holiday event where Santa had set up his temporary workshop.

The anticipation would build up as we stood in line, eagerly waiting for our turn to meet Santa. The line was usually filled with other children, all dressed in festive outfits, buzzing about their Christmas wishes and dreams. After finally reaching Santa and sharing Christmas wishes, Santa would cheerfully laugh and often have a little surprise for us, such as a candy cane or a small gift.

Sometimes, we would get to sit on his lap for a quick photo, capturing the happy memory forever.

After leaving Santa, we would feel an immense joy and excitement, knowing that Santa had listened to our wishes and that Christmas was just around the corner. The anticipation and belief in the magic of Santa Claus made visiting him as a kid for Christmas an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and holiday spirit.

Happy Holidays!

Fleet Officers Dr. Robert G. Hubbard, Fleet Captain Power Dr. John T. Seago, Fleet Captain Sail Rev. Walter A. Schmidt, Fleet Chaplain Mark E. Hauck, Fleet Measurer Com. Sean M. Schotthoefer, Fleet Quarter Master Dr. Wendy A. Lucid, Fleet Surgeon

Front Desk

(313) 884-2500 frontdesk@gpyc.org

Editorial

Information for this publication should be submitted to: Marketing Director – Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org

Staff Emails General Manager – Aaron Wagner awagner@gpyc.org Assistant General Manager – Sean Brown sbrown@gpyc.org Chief Financial Officer – Jim DeMasse jdemasse@gpyc.org Membership Director – Alexa Coole acoole@gpyc.org Marketing Director – Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org Graphic Designer – Heather Shock hshock@gpyc.org Human Resources Director – Gregory Martini gmartini@gpyc.org Food & Beverage Director – Heather Aldrich haldrich@gpyc.org Director of First Impression – Kaylee Gerniski kgerniski@gpyc.org Executive Chef – Eric Voigt evoigt@gpyc.org Harbor Master – Alex Turner aturner@gpyc.org Catering Director – Maria Dallas mdallas@gpyc.org Catering Coordinator – Cassandra Kinna ckinna@gpyc.org Catering Coordinator – Mary Primak mprimak@gpyc.org Bowling Director – Gordy Woods gwoods@gpyc.org Trap Shooting Manager – Christina Noland cnoland@gpyc.org Security Director – Mike Lee mlee@gpyc.org Athletic Director – Peter Wendzinski pwendzinski@gpyc.org

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club © 2023 - all rights reserved. This publication is the property of the GPYC, for member use only. No unauthorized use, sale or dissemination of information herein shall be made for commercial, personal or other purposes without the written permission of the GPYC.

Commodore's

Corner

The 2023 year has almost flown by and it’s hard to believe the Christmas holidays are here. Hopefully you were able to visit the always popular Holiday Boutique in mid-November. Committee chairs Sue Wegner and Maureen Gleason have made it a huge success yet again.

If you haven’t already, please take a minute to take in the ambiance of our Club during the holiday season.

The Club is decorated in all the dining rooms and main gathering areas beautifully. This has been a very interesting year on so many levels, so it’s important to take a moment to enjoy the Club, decorated to make the Christmas season special.

The Commodore’s Ball is the first huge event of the year. The Club celebrates the beginning of the new Commodore’s year with this great event. We hope to see you there! If you are attending the Ball, I personally hope you enjoy the well thought out evening.

Santa Brunch is going to be on Sunday, December 10. Make sure to sign up for this classic brunch so you can give your family the opportunity to have their picture taken with Santa Claus, and of course tell Santa what they want! The Elf Magic event is back and will be on Sunday, December 17. The event will offer the children who attend an afternoon of Christmas fun. You can expect games, Christmas crafts, Buddy the Elf and a buffet with many member favorites and delicious desserts.

Make sure to mark your calendars and visit the Grog Shop Sip N’ Shop pop-up event on December 21 and December 22 so you can purchase GPYC Christmas gifts to put under the tree. All the GPYC basics such as hats, sweatshirts, GPYC flannel pants and winter coats will be available.

Now is the time to join the Club. If you have any friends who are not already members, it may be a nice time to show them your Club decorated for the holidays. If they have any interest in joining, please make sure to contact Membership Director Alexa Coole. She would be happy to arrange a tour at a later time for the prospective members.

Finally, Jennifer and I hope you and your family have an enjoyable Christmas and a prosperous New Year!

Regards,

Commodore William Dillon

4

Meet the

Board

Commodore William J. Dillon is owner of Gresham Driving Aids since 1993, which modifies vehicles and homes for people with physical challenges. William and Jennifer along with daughter Kim have been Grosse Pointe Shores residents since 2000. He has been an avid boater since the age six. William has been a member since 1995.

Kurt J. Saldana grew up in East Detroit. He graduated from East Detroit High School in 1976, where he met his wife Kathleen. Kurt graduated in 1980 from Oakland University. He has two beautiful children, Adam and Kristen, and two granddaughters.

Kurt is looking forward to his second year on the GPYC Board.

Vice Commodore Robert V. Weiland is an Equity Partner at the Kapnick Insurance Group and a Kapnick Board of Directors and Executive Committee member. Bob resides in Grosse Pointe with his wife, Mary, and their four children. He currently serves on a wide variety of local boards.

In his free time, Bob enjoys boating and traveling with his wife.

Peter G. Beauregard graduated from Northwood University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management. He and his family have owned Colony Marine Sales & Service since 1958, so boating has been in the family for over 60 years. Mr. Beauregard and his wife Linda have been members of the Club since 1993, and has been on the Board since 2016.

Aside from boating, the Beauregard family enjoys snow skiing, water skiing, and enjoying time on the Great Lakes.

Rear Commodore David M. Schaden is a graduate of Michigan State University, BA. and University of Detroit, MBA. He is presently the Sr. General Manager of Sales at Toyoda Gosei. He has been married to his wife Amy Lynn, for 26 years and has three wonderful children, Thomas, Sara, and Mary. David has been a Member of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club since 1996. Over the last three years, David has served as Board liaison for The Harbor Committee and led the Strategic Harbor Committee, which oversaw the Harbor renovation project.

Christopher Izzi is the owner of Unique Technical Services based out of Saint Clair Shores, MI. His company has been providing industries with strapping systems, complete plant end of the line packaging solutions, PLC programming, electrical panel upgrades, robotics, and more since 1988. Christopher and his wife, Joanna, have resided in Grosse Pointe Shores for the past 19 years. They have been Active members of the Yacht Club for over 20 years. Christopher has had a boat in the Harbor since joining in March 2003. His daughter, Valentina, is also an Active member of the Club. Cruising the Great Lakes is a big part of his summer activity along with attending social events at the Club. In the winter, he is active on the Monday Night Bowling League.

Christopher and his family consider the GPYC their home away from home.

Treasurer Bruce G. Knapp has been married for 37 years to his wife Chris and has two beautiful Daughters, Erin and Hannah. He also has two grand children, Keegan and Avery. Bruce lives in Grosse Pointe Park and truly appreciates the community.

Bruce looks forward to spending more time at the Club in the upcoming years and loves spending time with the great friends he has come to know through the GPYC.

Peter T. Gleason and his wife, Maureen, have been active members of the GPYC since 2000. They have watched their two children grow up here at the Club (Kelly – 24, and Meg – 21) and have made many lifelong friends.

Pete has served on 10+ committees and has chaired 6 committees including Membership, Swim Team twice, and Harbor. Pete is looking forward to giving back to this Club, which has provided such an enriching experience for him and his family for the last 23 years, by providing a keen eye on the present and the future while also protecting many of our traditions of the past.

Secretary Michael J. Sobolewski ("Sobo") was born in Branford, Connecticut. He holds a Bachelor's and Masters in Accounting from the University of Connecticut. His career began at PricewaterhouseCoopers, where he's a Partner overseeing PwC's Greater Michigan Private Company practice and the US Construction sector. In 2009, Mike and his wife Katie moved to Michigan. They currently reside in Oakland Township with their two sons, Ethan and Caleb, and Bob the dog. Team Sobo enjoys boating in the summer, as well as golf, cooking and travel.

William S. Turner is a second generation GPYC member and a lifelong sailor. William and his wife Ally have four kids that have been a part of the GPYC summer programs for years. He is looking forward to finding ways to grow both adult and youth sailing at the Club.

Joseph Backer, Jr. has been in the landscaping business since 1987, and has owned and operated Backer Landscaping, Inc since 1994. Joe has three children, Andrew, Maxwell and Bridget. He enjoys boating and golfing in his free time. Joe has been a member of the Club since 2006.

5

Kevin M. O'Brien is a physician specializing in Nuclear Medicine, Molecular Imaging and Theranostics, (a newly emerging field of therapy.) Kevin is a father to four adult children. For most of their life together, Kevin and his late wife watched their children enjoy the Club as they participated in sailing, swim team, and tennis. During his time as a member of the Club, Kevin has been Fleet Surgeon twice, the Wine Committee Chair and Pickleball Chair. His favorite job so far has been organizing the Milliken Rendezvous the last five or so years. Kevin and his fiance, Connie, enjoy the Club many times throughout the week. They own a boat in the Harbor and love to cruise the lake. In addition to family, their passions are pickleball, bowling, food and wine, dancing, and enjoying their extensive group of great friends, mostly made through the Club activities.

Notes from the

Manager

Winter Fun at the Club

The holidays are a time for families to get together and enjoy spending time. There is no better place than the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club to facilitate those memorable moments. It was great to see all the families here for Thanksgiving Day and the Annual Tree Lighting.

Even after almost two decades of seeing the kitchen cook all of those turkeys, I am still amazed! I am very grateful for our wonderful culinary professionals and our service staff that provides the first class experiences our members have come to love. This past month we also honored our GPYC Veterans with the Veterans Appreciation Brunch which featured some very distinguished speakers. The Club was honored to host Major General Darren Werner, former Commander of the Detroit Arsenal and Brigadier General Matthew Brancato who is the Commander of the 127th Wing Michigan Air National Guard at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. In addition to those gentlemen saying a few words, the Club also enjoyed hearing about the Guardian Angels Service Dogs and meeting a veteran who was the recipient of the service dog Cobalt. The stories behind these individuals were very inspiring. I would recommend taking a look at their program at www.medicalservicedogs.org. Looking ahead, the Club is about to host its 95th annual Commodore's Ball in honor of Commodore Dillon. If you haven’t attended a Commodore's Ball in the past, please make plans to do so this year as it is always a great evening with delicious food and lively entertainment. Soon after that, Santa Claus will pay a visit to the GPYC on December 10 for the Annual Brunch with Santa. Make your reservations today as this event tends to sell out quickly! Don’t miss your photo opportunity with Santa with the backdrop of the Club. Looking further ahead, the Winter Blast is set for Saturday, January 20 and promises to be another amazing time with unique winter activities and fun. These traditional Club events are great opportunities to invite friends to the Club and introduce them to the GPYC lifestyle. Did you know there is currently a membership incentive opportunity that expires on December 31? This program could be perfect for a family member or friend to join the Club. Please reach out to Membership Director Alexa Coole for more details.

Happy holidays from all of us at GPYC. We look forward to seeing you at the Club!

Aaron Wagner General Manager

6

Meet the

Commodore

Interviewed by Vice Commodore Robert Weiland

2023-24 GPYC Commodore:

William Dillon

Q: Let's start at the beginning. Where were you born and raised?

WD: I was born in Detroit. I was adopted as a newborn and born at Receiving Hospital. I grew up in St. Clair Shores with my adopted parents. I have an adopted brother as well. I went to High School at Notre Dame and graduated in 1971.

Q: How did you come to join the GPYC? WD: I bought GPYC member Dave Kranker’s 43’ Hatteras that he had here at the Club. At that point, there was a TIFA between 9 mile and 10 mile. TIFA stands for Tax Increment Financing Authority, which is where they take money and put it in a fund to use for developments. They were going to tear the marinas down – no boat storage and very few wells. A buddy of mine was an attorney, and he snuck us in to see what was going on. Then we decided to join the Club, so we had a boat well.

Q: How long have you been a member?

WD: I have been a member since 1995. I first joined as a Social Member.

Q: Have you been on any previous committees for the Club? If so, what are they?

WD: I have only ever been on the Finance Committee. I started during Commodore Lauzon’s year, which was 2016. I have been on it ever since!

Q: What are your goals this year as Commodore?

WD: Number one, take care of the basics of this building and of the property. I want to take care of the stuff that is not visible, the behind-the-scenes stuff that needs to be fixed. A lot of times it’s easier to raise money for the glamorous side of the Club, but other areas need attention too.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

WD: I like to work on boats. I have been working on boats my whole life. I have replaced the transom myself and did all the varnishing. I keep my boat in a heated storage well, and I like to go there and make a little man-cave out of it during the winter. We also have a new puppy named George. He is six months old and weighs about 45 pounds. He is the fourth Old English Sheep Dog I have owned. I like to wrestle him and walk him.

Q: Tell us about how you met Lady Jennifer.

WD: Jennifer was my insurance agent. Then she started working for me. We started off as friends. Over time, the relationship evolved. We have been together for 29 years.

Q: What is the best advice you have been given?

WD: The best advice I have been given is from Bud Griner, who was on the Board here. He said, “I expect that you will make mistakes, never bet the company, don’t make the same mistake twice, and if you go drinking for lunch, don’t come back and don’t do it too often.”

Q: What are some of your greatest strengths or weaknesses?

WD: Well, I have had some employees for 40 years so I must be doing something right.

I have been very lucky. From being adopted, all the way through my life I have been very fortunate.

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Q: Do you have a favorite TV Show or Movie?

WD: My favorite movie is The Hunt for Red October. It’s a great movie!

Q: What is your favorite book or reading material?

WD: I read the Wallstreet Journal every day. I also read one of the Detroit Newspapers every day. I grew up reading the LOOK Magazine and boating magazines. I also read the Tom Clancy books, which turned into The Hunt for Red October.

Q: You have a winter home down in Islamorada, how long have you had that?

WD: We have had the place since 2000. My boat neighbor way back when at Miller Marina had a boat that they took down there and I would go down to visit them while traveling for work and such. I loved going there. Every time we went down, we would look at the real estate available and kept a close eye on it. Two places finally came up across the street from each other. One had shutters and the other had carpet. The owner wanted to sell so he could buy a 40-foot post.

I said, “that’s my kind of guy.” We wrote the offer and went out boating.

Q: Tell us about your boats.

WD: I have a 1987 54’ Hatteras. The name is Consternation. My mom hated boating, and one morning at breakfast she said, “those darn boats are nothing but consternation.” All my boats names have been a theme out of consternation ever since. We have a 28’ Pursuit down in Islamorada. I also have a 1956 18’ Chris Craft that is being restored for next summer.

We keep our 2001 24’ Pursuit Center Console Alacrity on Shoreline 7.

Q: Tell us a little about work.

WD: My company modifies vehicles for the handicap. We manufacture dual breaks for drivers training cars and distribute them throughout the country. We have a federal supply contract with the VA where I pay employees in other states to install equipment. We also modify used vehicles. There are three locations - Kalamazoo, Saginaw, and Wixom. The business is 65 years old. I had a full-time job when the opportunity to buy the company came up. I got a phone call from the accountant and banker saying, “we are going to foreclose on the mortgage and line of credit. Do you want the business?” I made a promise to the owner’s wife that I would take care of her husband, so I decided to do it. I eventually had to quit my other job. I opened the Kalamazoo and Saginaw locations.

Q: What is your favorite meal to order at the Club?

WD: My favorite meal to order is a hamburger. I like to order bacon and American cheese on it, along with all the other toppings it normally comes with. We have a really good burger here. Also, I would take an order of onion rings on the side over fries any day.

Q: What is your favorite holiday to celebrate?

WD: My favorite holiday is Christmas. Our Christmas decorations, specifically the Manger Scene, are huge and it’s my favorite part. It is Fontanini hand painted. We start setting it up before Thanksgiving. You don’t need to do any weightlifting when you are done setting it up – this is the real deal.

Q: Any additional thoughts?

WD: We really have made a tremendous amount of progress over the last few years on how far the Club has come.

Everyone always wants more, but we have done so much already and it’s important to take a second to reflect on that.

I am so appreciative of it all and I hope our members are too.

9

A Year in

Review

St. Patrick's Day

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

Winterblast & Winter Fest

Easter Brunch

Summer Launch Party

Havana Nights

Mother's Day

Memorial Day

Fourth of July

Father's Day

10

Review

Cars & Coffee

GPYC SAILFISH

Fleet

Docktails

Fall Family Festival

Pirates & Mermaids

DOGGIE SPLASH DAY

WINE DINNER

Did You Know?

Toys for Tots The giant toy chest is back and ready to accept Toys for Tots donations! The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to less fortunate youngsters that will assist them into becoming responsible, productive, patriotic citizens. The last day for donations is December 22, and the toy chest is located in the GPYC lobby.

Want to donate but don't have time to buy a gift?

Let us do the shopping for you! Our team will pick out a great gift for the toy chest and add a charge to your account. Please contact Membership Director Alexa Coole by emailing acoole@gpyc.org with the amount you would like to donate.

Call us to help Rethink your Personal, Employee or Business Insurance.

At Sterling Insurance Group, we make sure you have proper coverage as your needs change over time.

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Paul Mattes

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12

To Your

Health

Healthy Holiday Recipes

The holidays are a time where we all over-indulge in food and drinks. Below are a few of my favorite healthy recipes and each one takes under 10 minutes to prepare and make.

Peter’s Specialty Smoothie

Green Smoothie

Tofu Pudding

• ½ cup frozen blueberries • 1 frozen banana • ¼ cup frozen cherries • ¼ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt • 1 teaspoon of chia seeds • 1 cup almond or oat milk • Blend

• 1 frozen banana • ½ cup frozen mango • ½ cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt • 1 cup spinach or kale • 1 teaspoon flax seed (ground) • 1 cup almond or oat milk • Blend

• 16 ounces Silken Organic Tofu • 1/3 cup cacao powder • ¼ cup maple syrup (optional) • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • Pinch of salt • Blend in food processor

Best in health, Peter Wendzinski pwendzinski@gpyc.org

TRAP SHOOTING Join us for Trap Shooting on Saturdays and Sundays from11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 2 Sunday, December 3 Saturday, December 9 Sunday, December 10 Saturday, December 16 Sunday, December 17 *Please note there will be no Trap Shooting available on December 23, 24, 30, & 31.

Join us at the Marine Activity Center with complimentary Chef John's Chili.

Members and guests must bring their own firearm and eye protection. The GPYC does have eye protection for sale. $30 per person. Includes ammunition and hearing protection. After rounds are completed drinks by subscription are available.

We do accept drop-ins and will do our best to keep rotations going.

Please provide guests names when reserving your spot.

To make a reservation, please contact Trap Shooting Manager Christina Noland by emailing cnoland@gpyc.org.

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AWARD-WINNING ARTISTRY SUPERIOR SELECTION EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE

AHEE.COM 14

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313.886.4600

Up Your

Alley

Bowling Leagues are in Full Swing!

Greetings! The bowlers are in the middle of a great season. As mentioned in last month’s article, all the GPYC leagues are full. There have been some outstanding scores.

Here are some of the highlights over the past few weeks: Monday Men’s League: John Seago 289, Brad Drummy 247 game.

Wednesday Night League: Julie Granger 190 game, Barbara Alcorn 183 game. Com. Kevin Granger 223, JP Lang 217.

Thursday Morning Ladies League: Brenda Taylor 107 pins over average.

Thursday Night Mixed League: Paul Navetta 234 game. Renee Seago 169 game.

Bowling Etiquette Reminders: 1. Be ready when it’s your turn. Be at the lanes when the bowler you follow is just finishing his/her frame.

2. Do not go on the approach until it’s your turn. The person on your right has the right of way unless he/she let you go ahead.

3. When waiting to throw your second ball (spare ball) step off the approach until your ball comes back from the ball return. You may then grab your ball to shoot your spare.

Always be prepared to bowl. For a four-person team, it should not take any longer than 2 ½ hours to bowl three games.

For a five-person team, it should only take less then three hours. Your teammates should not have to call your name every time it’s your turn to bowl.

The Club held its first interclub tournament of the season against Lochmoor Club. I am pleased to say the GPYC Men Keglers took care of business. We had to spot their Club a whopping 1215 pins before even starting to bowl. After the first game, GPYC cut that deficit in half. At the end we won by 443 pins. We were led by the team of Mike Cytacki, Ted Lucia, Andrew Christians, Howard Smith, and Charles Molnar. Charles ended with an actual total score of 670. Andrew had the high game of the night with a 255 game. Our next interclub event will be on Saturday, November 11 against the Red Run Golf Club.

There will be open bowling during the holidays. The hours of open bowling will be Wednesday, December 27 from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m., Thursday, December 28 from 12:00 - 9:00 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 12:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Reservations are required. Please email gwoods@gpyc.org or call at (313) 640-7005.

We will also offer open bowling on New Year’s Eve, December 31 from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. A la carte dining menus will be available for food options.

Thank you for supporting GPYC bowling!

Gordy Woods Director of Bowling Operations

HOLIDAY OPEN BOWLING

Wednesday, December 27 and Thursday, December 28 12:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Friday, December 29 and Saturday, December 30 12:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Cost for a lane is $40 per hour. $7 shoe rental.

New Year’s Eve, December 31 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Cost is $50 per hour per lane. $7 shoe rental.

15

GPYC Upcoming

Events

95th Annual Commodore's Ball

Mahjong

Saturday, December 2 | 6:00 p.m.

Commodore William Dillon and Lady Jennifer Winckler invite you to the 95th Annual Commodore's Ball. This black tie event of the year is a time-honored tradition. Join us for a beautiful evening of spirits, dinner and dancing.

The Commodore's Ball is steeped in tradition and is an opportunity for the membership to honor the incoming Commodore and to say thank you to departing leadership. The current Board of Directors is acknowledged and Flag Officers are presented with the flag appropriate to their office.

The celebration begins with a grand march into the Ballroom with the designated emcee introducing each Past Commodore and spouse, board members and spouses, and all visiting Commodores and spouses.

After the formalities, the party begins with dinner and dancing all evening in our beautiful Ballroom with fellow members and friends. Enjoy this fun event, it will be an unforgettable evening! $140++ per person.

Drinks by subscription.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Wednesday, December 6 | 1:00 p.m.

The game of Mahjong is a new experience at the Club this year. Interest in this game has been phenomenal.

To date, 34 members have signed up for free lessons. Lessons involve 3 sessions each for two hours.

The game provides you to meet new people as well as play with existing friends.

If you are interested in more information or lessons, please call or text Nancy Hohlfeldt at (313) 418-0800.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Women’s Book Club

Wednesday, December 6 | 6:00 p.m.

The group meets at the Club on the first Wednesday of each month (unless that falls on a holiday). The book of the month is discussed over dinner and cocktails.

The Maid by Nita Prose Please contact Mariann Channell at medievalmd@aol.com if you are not already on the Book Club email list.

Euchre Night

Friday, December 8 | 6:30 p.m.

Enjoy a light dinner, dessert and a fun night with friends. Please bring $10 that will be collected when you arrive toward game play. $20++ per person Drinks by subscription.

You must register 48 hours in advance.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

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Sip & Sleigh: A Detroit Holiday Lights Tour

Friday, December 8 | 5:00 p.m.

Get in the holiday spirit and join the Club for a 3-hour tour on the town.

The Club will offer a pre-tour bar with roadies available by subscription and an after-glow with a Detroit themed Coney bar in the Spinnaker. The Spinnaker will be open at 5:00 p.m. The tour starts promptly at 7:00 p.m.

Tour stops include: Campus Martius Detroit Holiday Market The Congregation (Specialty Drink Included) The Fisher Building Tour provided by The Detroit Bus Company – snacks will be provided. $100++ per person Drinks by Subscription.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Sunday Brunch

Every Sunday | 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Join us for Brunch is every Sunday in the Main Dining Room. Enjoy an omelette station and other favorite brunch items. $30++ per person $16++ per child Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Holiday Open Bowling

5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, December 16 Saturday, December 23 Saturday, December 30

Save

Santa Brunch

Sunday, December 10 10:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. Seating Santa will be arriving with his helpers and joining us for brunch. GPYC children will have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa in the Venetian Room. Baffling Bill and Gus the Bunny will be preforming magic. Bowling will be available from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Adults $40++ per person.

Kids 12 & Under $18++ per child.

Free for children 3 and under.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Ladies Bridge Club

Thursday, December 14 | 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 28 | 12:30 p.m.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Elf Magic

Sunday, December 17 | 3:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Meet Buddy the Elf and experience a magic show by Jasen Magic performing from 3:30 – 4:15 p.m. Have fun in our snow globe bounce castle, enjoy elf bowling, Elf the movie, and crafts for the whole family. Featuring a buffet with many favorites such as pizza, salad, chicken fingers, fries and delicious desserts! $30++ per person.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

These dates are accurate as of the printing of this Grosse Pointer. Times and dates are subject to change. Please stay tuned to the Weekly Buzz and eblasts for updates.

Sip N' Shop

Thursday, December 21 & Friday, December 22 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Need a last minute gift? Come shop in the Spinnaker for GPYC apparel and other merchandise!

A complimentary glass of champagne will be offered while you shop.

Drinks by subscription.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Sunday Turkey Dinner Special

Every Sunday | 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

The much loved turkey dinner special is back! Join us in the Main Dining Room for roasted turkey, sage stuffing, mashed potatoes, corn, gravy and cranberry!

Due to popular demand the Turkey Dinner Special is first come first serve.

Please contact the Front Desk for reservations at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Kid's Club Crafts

December 1 & 2 Santa Christmas Card December 8 & 9 Foam Snowflake Ornament December 15 & 16 Snowman Paperchain Garland December 22 & 23 Gingerbread House Sticker Craft December 29 & 30 New Year’s Paper Plate Noise Makers

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the Date

Mahjong January 3 Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League January 4 Cooking Night, Friday Couples #1 Bowling Kid's Club January 5 Trap Shooting, Kid's Club, Euchre Night January 6 Trap Shooting, Brunch & Bowl January 7 Monday Night Men's Bowling League January 8 Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League January 10 Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League, Wine Tasting January 11 Kid's Club, Open Bowling January 12 Kid's Club, Open Bowling, Karaoke January 12 Monday Night Men's Bowling League January 15 Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League January 17 Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League January 18 Kid's Club, Friday Couples #2 Bowling, Triple Threat Trivia January 19 Trap Shooting, Winter Blast, Kid's Club January 20 Trap Shooting, Brunch & Bowl January 21 Monday Night Men's Bowling League January 22 Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League, Rendezvous Reception January 24 Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League January 25 Kid's Club, Pop-Up Dinner January 26 Trap Shooting, Kid's Club, Sip N' Shop January 27 Trap Shooting, Brunch & Bowl January 28 Monday Night Men's Bowling League January 29 Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League January 31

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X SERIES: X50 M SERIES: M51 | M55 | M60 | M64| M75 S SERIES: S51 | S55 | S60 | S75 OFFSHORE SERIES: M600 | S600

M-LINE: M48 X-LINE: X60 | X70 FLYBRIDGE: 420 | 460 | 520 | 590 | 690 S-LINE: 420S | 460S | 520S | 590S

Culinary

By Heather Shock

Excellence

A Perfect Christmas Dinner

¾ cup unsalted butter softened 1 cup granulated sugar 1 large egg ¼ cup molasses 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp baking soda

Gingerbread Cookies

½ tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon if you like a strong cinnamon flavor, increase to 2 tsp total ½ tsp ginger if you like a strong ginger flavor, increase to 1-2 tsp total Optional: granulated sugar to roll cookie dough balls in

INSTRUCTIONS Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. First, mix together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Next, add egg and molasses and mix well.

In a separate bowl combine flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon and ginger, stirring to combine.

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until well combined.

Form or scoop balls of dough that are slightly smaller than a golf ball. If desired, roll dough balls in granulated sugar after forming.

Place them on a baking sheet approximately 2” to 3” apart to allow room for cookies to spread.

Finally, bake for 10-12 minutes, remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on baking for approximately ten minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.

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What is the perfect Christmas dinner? At the GPYC it’s families and friends gather around the table to share in the traditions of the season.

Christmas dinner is a time-honored celebration of family, love, and togetherness. Let’s explore the classic elements that make up a traditional Christmas dinner, the cultural significance of this culinary tradition, and the delicious variety that will add creativity to this age-old celebration.

The Main Course: Roast Turkey or Ham One of the most popular traditional main dishes of Christmas is often a roasted turkey or ham. Roast turkey symbolizes abundance and gratitude, a reminder of the first Thanksgiving feast celebrated by the Pilgrims. The turkey is typically seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices and roasted golden to ensure a tender and juicy result. Another main dish you may enjoy is a glazed ham with brown sugar and pineapple. Both options come with their own unique taste, and the choice often depends on family preferences.

Steal the Show with fabulous Sides!

Traditional Christmas dinners have various side dishes that enhance the overall experience. Some classic sides include: Stuffing: A mixture of bread, onions, celery, and various seasonings, stuffing is baked inside the turkey or as a separate dish. It soaks up the turkey's flavorful juices and adds a delicious component to the meal.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect addition to the plate, often covered with rich gravy.

Garlic and herbs can always be added for extra flavor.

Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tart cranberry sauce offers a nice contrast to the rich dishes on the table.

Roasted Vegetables: A variety of roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, adds a colorful and nutritious element to the meal.

Green Bean Casserole: A classic American side dish, green bean casserole features green beans in a

creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. Always a favorite!

The tradition of a Christmas dinner is more than just a culinary experience; it's a time to bond, reflect, and celebrate with loved ones. Many cultural and religious traditions are woven into the fabric of this feast.

In various countries and cultures, Christmas dinner customs differ. The key is that each tradition reflects the heritage and values of the people who celebrate it.

Christmas dinner is a time-honored and cherished tradition that brings joy and togetherness during the holiday season. Whether you're enjoying a golden roast turkey, a glazed ham, or other dishes, the heart of the tradition remains the same – celebrating with loved ones, sharing meaningful moments, and embracing the warmth of the holiday spirit. As the winter season approaches, there's no better way to create lasting memories and keep the spirit of the holidays alive than by the comforting and festive foods of a traditional Christmas dinner.

Delicious Desserts

The tradition of making and sharing Christmas cookies goes beyond the delicious taste. It is a way to celebrate the season. Families and friends gather in the kitchen to bake, decorate, and bond over yummy creations. Many families have their secret cookie recipes passed down through generations, adding a sense of nostalgia to the holiday season.

Christmas cookies also provide an opportunity for generosity. Many people share their homemade cookies with neighbors, colleagues, and those in need, embracing the spirit of giving and goodwill that is at the heart of the holiday season.

Cookies, Cookies, and more Cookies!

The beauty of Christmas cookies is that there are so many varieties.

There are many cookie types to choose from, each with its own flavor

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and character. Here are some classic varieties that fill holiday platters: Gingerbread Cookies: Gingerbread cookies are a perfect Christmas treat with their spicy, warm flavors and intricate designs. They are often shaped like people or houses and can be decorated with icing and candy.

Sugar Cookies: Sugar cookies are a blank canvas for creativity, making them a favorite for decorating. These cookies can be cut into shapes, from stars, angels, Christmas trees and snowflakes.

Chocolate Chip Cookies: A yearround favorite, they often make their way onto holiday dessert tables.

Snickerdoodles: Snickerdoodles are soft, cinnamon-flavored cookies rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before baking. Their warm taste is perfect for the holiday season.

Linzer Cookies: These elegant cookies consist of two almond-flour cookies sandwiched together with jam, leaving a small cutout window on top to reveal the colorful filling.

Peppermint Cookies: Crushed candy canes or peppermint extract adds a minty twist to various cookie recipes. Peppermint bark cookies and peppermint chocolate thumbprints are other options for this delightful goody.

Russian Tea Cakes: These delicate, crumbly cookies are typically made with ground nuts, powdered sugar, and a touch of vanilla. They are perfect for sharing!

The tradition of Christmas cookies is a heartwarming and delicious part of the holiday season, so it's no wonder that making and sharing these sweet treats has become a beloved custom in households worldwide.

Wine of the

Month

The Wine Committee has done it again. After a blind wine tasting of 5 different wines, we decided on the December Wine of the Month. It is Undertow North Coast Proprietary Red Wine Blend by Bloodroot Wines. The GPYC Wine Committee got a good laugh at the continued choice of wines with funny names, commenting that a upon seeing the label they may not have even picked this wine up. This is not a wine to be judged by its name or label. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and a touch of Sangiovese, Undertow is a wine that rose from the ashes of 2020.

A lot of wine was lost in 2020. We are seeing many vintages running short and some becoming difficult to find. Undertow is one of the lots that lived up to the lofty standards of winemakers Noah and Kelly Dorrance of Reeve Wines. They started Blood Root, as a collaboration of acclaimed Heather Aldrich winemakers, as a complementary brand to Reeves. The name as stated by the winemaker is Food & Beverage “meant to pull you under the surface.” It is a unique blend that will pair perfectly with your holiday Director roast or a charred Buther’s Choice from the GPYC specials list.

Undertow has notes of currant, laurel and cinnamon that harmonize with accents of pomegranate, blood orange and cherry, finishing with some earthier tones of tobacco and leather. It debuted on December 1 with tastings offered from 5:00-7:00 p.m. in the Dining Room. It will sell for $12/glass and $48/bottle throughout the month of December.

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Membership

Matters

Tis the Season – 12 Days of Christmas is BACK!

Tis the season to be jolly! There is truly no better place to experience the holidays than at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. A member favorite is back again, 12 days of Christmas. This is our way of spreading holiday cheer to our membership. All you must do is participate! Watch your inbox for special offers and discounts on GPYC merchandise, events, fitness, bowling, food and beverage, and more!

For every day you participate in the 12 Days of Christmas special, you will be entered in to win our grand prize. This promotion will start on Monday, December 11.

What an incredible time to join, with the holidays around the corner and our wonderful membership incentive we are currently running! Active and Social Members joining from October 1 through December 31, 2023 will receive complimentary dues for their first three months of membership.

Alexa Coole New members will also receive a $1000 credit on their account to help them get acquainted with Membership Director all the Club has to offer. Candidates that apply for this membership incentive will be responsible. for the initiation fee in their respective classification.

Members who sponsor an Active or Social member until February 29, 2024 will receive a food and beverage credit equivalent to 10% of the initiation fee paid by the incoming member.

Wishing you all a safe and happy holiday season!

Alexa Coole Membership Director

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• GROSSE POINTE YACHT CLUB •

Member Highlight

Please join us in welcoming GPYC members Brittanie Parker and Gregory Andrzejewski's new bundle of joy. This is their first child and they can't wait for all the future family memories to be made at the Yacht Club. Congratulations to them!

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Club

Highlights

Scotch & Cigar Night Wednesday, October 11, 2023

On Wednesday, October 11, members could partake in a relaxing night involving scotch, cigars, and hors d’oeuvres around bonfire pits on the Binnacle Terrace. Each member who attended received a complimentary cigar and a customized scotch flight hand-picked by our Food and Beverage Director, Heather Aldrich. Members could also purchase cigars on site, courtesy of Churchill’s. This event is requested every year and is something the Club looks forward to hosting again in the Spring.

THE FINEST FAMILIES

DESERVE

THE FINEST TEAM

Pictured left-to-right: Sue Minster, Jason Geisz (GPYC member), Adam Biswanger, Bob Alati, Beth Silver, Robyn Crewdson, Angela DiFranco (not pictured)

40900 Woodward Ave, Suite 302 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248-341-0596 www.famigliawealth.net Registered Representatives of Sanctuary Securities Inc. and Investment Advisor Representatives of Sanctuary Advisors, LLC. Securities offered through Sanctuary Securities, Inc., Member FINRA, SIPC. Advisory services offered through Sanctuary Advisors, LLC., an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Famiglia Wealth is a DBA of Sanctuary Securities, Inc. and Sanctuary Advisors, LLC.

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Witching Hour

WINE DINNER Wednesday, October 25, 2023

The Witching Hour Wine Dinner was a magical success. Attendance was light for the event creating a cozy atmosphere to enjoy and discuss wine paired with amazing food. The evening started with an unusual cocktail recommended by Jodi Holden, our representative from Trinchero Estates. Everyone was quite surprised by how much they enjoyed this special blend of two vermouths created

by Trinchero. The wines paired with dinner were from the Neyers and Quattro Theory. Chef Eric Voigt and Food and Beverage Director, Heather Aldrich went all out on décor and food parings with a Halloween flare.

Howling Halloween Family Night Friday, October 27, 2023

Howling Halloween Family Fun Night was a spooktacular hit. The whole Club was decorated by the GPYC Catering and Set Up department.

The kids dressed up in their favorite costumes, and a prize was given out to the best dressed. Members enjoyed the Haunted House out on the East Lawn, games and activities in the Ballroom, and trick or treating around the Club.

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Club

Highlights

TOWER OF TERROR Friday, October 27, 2023

Jim Hanika, Anita Shina, Nancy & Com. Brian Fish

Costume winners Briana & Mark Sarah & Richard Rozewicz

Kevin O'Brien, Connie Buffa & guests

• Boat Tops & Covers • Custom Interiors • Marine Carpet • Cushions & Upholstery • Contract Sewing

• Yacht Enclosures • Acrylic & Bonded Windows • Sailboat Dodgers • Canvas Service & Repair • SeaDek Flooring

• Exceptional Traction • Unparalleled Comfort • Shock Absorption

• Protection for Boat Surfaces • Noise Reduction

The Tower Pub was transformed into the Tower of Terror and the adults partied all night long. There were bats escaping the fireplace, cobwebs covering doors and skeletons hanging on the walls. The bartenders were serving creepy drinks with shots of "blood." The costumes did not disappoint, but the winners for the best costume were guests of GPYC Member Taffany Van Rossen, Briana and Mark. They dressed up as characters Beth and Rip, from the TV series Yellowstone. This spooky evening is always a hit and the camaraderie among the members was hard to beat!

Custom Outdoor Patio Covers

If you have a boat, you have a place for

Michigan Certified SeaDek Installer!

www.lakeshoreboattop.com • 586-465-1731 26

GPYC Active Members | Hill Association President Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce “Excellence in Business” Award Recipient

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Meet the

Staff

Interviewed by Jennifer Benoit

GPYC Team Spotlight Pastry Chef Christina Wood

Pastry Chef Christina Wood has been working in the restaurant & baking industry for over 15 years. She specializes in making cakes for all events. Her creativity is top notch, and the cakes are delicious! We are fortunate to have a Pastry Department on hand to cater members birthday, wedding, and any event a dessert is needed at.

How long have you worked at the GPYC? It will be two years in January of working at the Club.

What is your experience in restaurant hospitality?

I started off as a cook for three years at the Henry Ford Museum. I decided to go to Culinary School after that and was sent over to Big Rock Chophouse because I was outcooking the teacher. I was Chef Eric’s assistant for three years and was promoted to Pastry Chef after that.

What is your favorite part about working at the Club?

My favorite part is the view – I can’t believe it!

What is your favorite dessert to make?

My favorite dessert to make is a beautiful cake. My favorite flavor is chocolate!

Cakes by Christina

The GPYC is proud to offer custom cakes for all occasions, including weddings, made by our Pastry Chef, Christina Wood! She offers a variety of flavors (including gluten-free options), fillings, and icings. Cakes range in size from 6" to a full sheet. Standard wedding cakes are available in 3 or 5 tiers. To place an order, please contact Catering Coordinator Cassandra Kinna at ckinna@gpyc.org.

What is your favorite holiday to celebrate?

My favorite holiday is Halloween. I love making it spooky and dressing up however you want.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to travel. I am trying to visit all of the U.S. states! I have over 20 states left. I enjoy walking my dogs in my free time.

I also like watching TV, Below Deck specifically.

Pastry Chef Assistant Angel Haines

Pastry Assistant Angel Haines comes to the GPYC straight from culinary school. This is her first corporate job, and we are happy to have her as part of the culinary staff!

How long have you worked at the GPYC? I have been working at the Club for six months. This is my first real pastry job, as I am fresh out of the Culinary Institute of Michigan.

What is your favorite part about working at the Club?

My favorite part about working here is being able to have the freedom to do what I like, which is baking.

What do you like to do in your free time?

Some of my hobbies include sewing and crocheting. I also like to spend time with all my animals – 3 cats, 2 rabbits and a lizard!

What is your favorite dessert to make?

I really like making fruit tarts. They are beautiful and delicious.

What is your favorite holiday to celebrate?

My favorite holiday is Halloween. I love sweets, dressing up, and doing spooky activities.

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GPYC

News

Harbor Hours

Please contact Harbor Master Alex Turner if you have any questions by emailing aturner@gpyc.org.

Fitness Hours

Daily 5:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

GPYC Reciprocity

Don’t forget that the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club has reciprocity with numerous Clubs all over the world. Please contact Membership Director Alexa Coole within 48 hours’ notice of which Club you would like to travel to and the duration of your stay. Once Membership has obtained all information necessary, we will reach out to the Club of your choice and provide them with a Letter of Introduction, as well as a point of contact to the Club you are visiting. Contact Alexa Coole for any additional information at (313) 640-3188 or email acoole@gpyc.org.

Holiday Parties

The Holidays are here. It's not too late to book your party at the Club. Please contact our Catering Department to plan your event today!

Cancellation Policy

Members canceling a reservation for Club sponsored functions with less than 24 hours’ notice or not attending the function without giving notice will be charged the established price for each person involved. Thank you.

GPYC Concierge Service

All members can enjoy services such as menu requests, carry-out dining, event reservations and more! Save it as “GPYC Concierge” on your phone and start texting (313) 306-2437.

Winter Clubhouse Attire

Gentlemen (ages 12-up): Collared shirts with tailored pants or denim may be worn. Hoodies, t-shirts and hats are not permitted. Athletic attire, pants or denim with holes or rips are prohibited. Sandals, rubber shoes, Crocs or slides may not be worn.

Ladies (ages 12-up): Blouse, sweater or collared shirt with tailored pants or denim. Dresses and skirts worn in good taste are also permitted. Hoodies and t-shirts are not permitted. Ladies may wear appropriate hats. Leggings are permitted when worn as undergarments with a mid-thigh length top, sweater, skirt or dress. Athletic attire, pants or denim with holes or rips are prohibited. Sandals, rubber shoes, Crocs or slides may not be worn.

Grog Shop

Please note the Club will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Online Dining Reservations

Kid's Club

The Grog Shop is now closed for the season. Please reach out to Marketing Director Jennifer Benoit if you would like to make an appointment to shop, or visit our online store!

Make your reservations for our dining rooms through OpenTable! Simply visit our website or phone app, log in, and go to the “Reservations” tab. There, you will see an OpenTable widget where you can select the day and time to dine with us. Parties of 9 or more will need to call the Front Desk to make a reservations for all rooms.

Ala Carte Dining

A La Carte Dining is available Wednesday through Sunday at the Club for lunch and dinner. Please be sure to check The Buzz and other publications for dining hours and dining rooms available. If you have any questions, please call (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Staff Holiday Fund

This is the time of year when members can express appreciation for the kindness, courtesy and dedication of the staff at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

This is particularly true regarding the many behind-the-scenes staff members who do not share in gratuities, but who nevertheless contribute to the overall excellence of the Club. From the cooks and dishwashers in the kitchen, to the setup crews in catering, to the administrative, housekeeping, maintenance, security and Harbor staff – all are deserving of your holiday generosity.

You may email your gift amount to cbuffa@gpyc.org or rhauff@gpyc.org.

Forms, which can be mailed or dropped off at the Club, were mailed out to those members who receive their statement via mail. For those who receive their statements via email, a form will be attached to their monthly statement email.

Donations are accepted through Friday, December 15, 2023.

On behalf of our staff and your Board of Directors, we thank you for your support and continuing generosity. We wish you and your family a most joyous holiday.

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Parents – you have the opportunity to enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening at the Club, while your kids enjoy Kid’s Club on Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 – 10 p.m. Children must be three years old and potty trained. $30 for the first child, $25 for each additional child in the family, this includes a buffet made up of some your children's favorites!

To maintain the appropriate staff-to-child ratio, the maximum number of children who may attend Kid’s Club is 6 children per sitter. Reservations are required. The cut-off for reservations is by 4:30 p.m. the day of. We understand things can happen last minute. There will be an additional $20 charge per walk-in visit.

To sign up your children, contact the Front Desk at(313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.

Dining Hours BRUNCH: Main Dining Room Sunday

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Afternoon Menu 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.

LUNCH: Main Dining Room Wednesday - Saturday 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

DINNER: Binnacle Friday & Saturday 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Main Dining Room Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Friday & Saturday 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Spinnaker 5:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Dates for dining December 1, 2, 8, 9 & 16 Happy Hour: Main Dining Room Wednesday - Friday 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.

Looking

Aft

Forgotten Rooms

By Larry Stephenson, MD

Before becoming a GPYC member and eventually commodore (1956), Mervyn Gaskin was employed in 1929 as chief engineer for the company providing the structural steel for the clubhouse. He later explained that several architectural features in the original blueprints had to be either modified or eliminated, mostly due to cost overruns, and the planned elevator did not survive the cost cutting. The Directors lost their meeting room and the tower area was relegated to storage use.

With no designated meeting space, Club Directors apparently met wherever they found an available room, but by the 1950s, the need for a special meeting room was acknowledged.

Obviously a room already being used for another purpose had to be found somewhere, and it was.

Just off the Main Dining Room was an area made up of two rooms that could become one large room if needed, used by members for private dining or for special functions. Those two rooms became one permanent large room that is today’s Commodores Room.

A happy ending has finally come for the two forgotten rooms with no easy access. The present elevator was installed in 1995 and the storage room was then remodeled to become the Tower Pub. The Loggia was enclosed and became part of the Pub, but recently has been remade into the Club’s Library. The elevator runs perfectly, but quite frankly, most of us should be using the stairs. Incidentally, Commodore Gaskin donated the painting,"Roaring 40s" to the GPYC, one of our most valuable paintings.

Most GPYC members of today have been to at least one special event in the Tower Pub and are becoming increasingly familiar with our newly established Library on the same floor. Looking at the original clubhouse blueprints indicates an entirely different use for those rooms was intended. The Pub area is labeled the Directors Room and the Library is the Loggia, an open-air porch to be used for viewing and judging regattas and fleet reviews. One word explains why this plan never left the drawing board – Elevator.

Those same blueprints show an elevator, located in the same spot as today’s elevator, that not only provided access to those rooms but continued on up into the Bell Tower. Even though the shaft was built as specified, an elevator was never installed, rendering those rooms unusable as intended.

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2023 GPYC

Calendar

JANUARY 2024

december 2023 Fri., December 1................ Kid's Club

Wed., January 3................. Mahjong

Sat., December 2 .............. 95th Annual Commodore's Ball, Kid's Club

Thurs., January 4............... Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League

Sun., December 3............... Brunch & Bowl

Fri., January 5................... Cooking Night, Friday Couples #1 Bowling Kid's Club

Mon., December 4............. Monday Night Men's League Wed., December 6............. Mahjong, Ladies Book Club, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League Thurs., December 7........... Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League Fri., December 8................ Euchre Night, GPYC Christmas Bar Crawl, Kid's Club Sat., December 9 .............. Kid's Club Sun., December 10............. Brunch with Santa, Brunch & Bowl

Sat., January 6 .................. Trap Shooting, Kid's Club, Euchre Night Sun., January 7.................. Brunch & Bowl, Trap Shooting Mon., January 8................. Monday Night Men's League Wed., January 10............... Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League Thurs., January 11............. Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Wine Tasting, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League Fri., January 12................. Open Bowling, Kid's Club

Mon., December 11........... Monday Night Men's League

Sat., January 13................. Trap Shooting, Open Bowling, Kid's Club, Karaoke

Wed., December 13........... Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League

Sun., January 14 ................ Brunch & Bowl, Trap Shooting

Thurs., December 14......... Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Ladies Bridge Group, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League

Mon., January 15............... Monday Night Men's League Wed., January 17............... Mahjong, Wednesday Night League

Fri., December 15.............. Kid's Club Sat., December 16 ............ Kid's Club, Open Bowling

Thurs., January 18............. Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League

Sun., December 17 ............ Brunch & Bowl, Elf Magic

Fri., January 19................. Kid's Club, Friday #2 Couples Bowling, Triple Threat Trivia

Mon., December 18........... Monday Night Men's League

Sun., January 21 ................ Brunch & Bowl, Trap Shooting

Wed., December 20........... Mahjong, Wednesday Night League

Mon., January 22............... Monday Night Men's League

Thurs., December 21......... Sip N' Shop, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League

Wed., January 24............... Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League, Rendezvous Reception

Fri., December 22.............. Sip N' Shop, Kid's Club Sat., December 23 ............ Kid's Club, Open Bowling

Thurs., January 25............. Thursday Ladies Bowling League, Thursday Night Mixed Bowling League

Wed., December 27........... Mahjong

Fri., January 26................. Kid's Club, Pop-Up Dinner

Thurs., December 28......... Ladies Bridge Club

Sat., January 27................. Trap Shooting, Kid's Club, Sip N' Shop

Fri., December 29.............. Kid's Club

Sun., January 28 ................ Brunch & Bowl, Trap Shooting

Sat., December 30 ............ Kid's Club, Open Bowling

Mon., January 29............... Monday Night Men's League

Sun., December 31 ............ Brunch & Bowl

These dates are accurate as of the printing of this Grosse Pointer.

Please stay tuned to The Weekly Buzz and eblasts for updates.

Wed., January 24............... Mahjong, Wednesday Night Mixed Bowling League

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Grosse Pointe Yacht Club 788 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236

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Proudly serving Southeast Michigan since 2001 INDUSTRY’S LEADING WARRANTY 5 YEARS