Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 (313) 884-2500 www.gpyc.org
Advertising Director & Graphic Designer
Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org
Writers
Jennifer Benoit
Alexa Coole
Christina Noland
Past Commodore James L. Ramsey
Secretary Kurt Saldana
Michelle Shore
Alex Turner
Eric Voigt
Aaron Wagner
Commodore Robert Weiland
Peter Wendzinski
Gordy Woods
Photographer
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
The Grosse Pointer
Postmaster, send address changes
Grosse Pointe
As we step into spring, the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club is brimming with excitement for the season ahead. This month’s cover, captured by John F. Martin Photography, reflects the unfiltered joy of childhood during the holidays—even when the bunnies look a little creepy. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most imperfect moments create the fondest memories.
Spring at the Club means a vibrant return to outdoor activities. The Harbor will soon be bustling with boats, the tennis courts will come alive with friendly matches, and our patios will once again be filled with laughter and camaraderie.
While we look ahead, we also honor where we’ve been—recognizing the generations of members who have shaped GPYC into the remarkable community it is today. Their dedication and passion have created a place where traditions are celebrated and new memories are made.
Additionally, as we continue to grow, we invite you to take advantage of the advertising opportunities available through the Club. Whether you’re looking to promote your business or support upcoming events, there are plenty of ways to engage with our thriving membership. For more information, please reach out to me directly.
Here’s to a season filled with sunshine, adventure, and the moments that make GPYC feel like home.
See you at the Club!
Jennifer Benoit Marketing Director
Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Officers
Fleet Officers
Commodore Robert V. Weiland
Dr. Robert G. Hubbard, Fleet Captain Power
Vice Commodore
David M. Schaden
Dr. John T. Seago, Fleet Captain Sail
Rear Commodore Bruce G. Knapp
Commodore's Corner
Treasurer Michael J. Sobolewski
Rev. Walter A. Schmidt, Fleet Chaplain Mark E. Hauck, Fleet Measurer
Secretary Kurt J. Saldana
Com. Sean M. Schotthoefer, Fleet Quarter Master
Dr. Wendy A. Lucid, Fleet Surgeon
Directors
Peter G. Beauregard
Peter T. Gleason
Mark E. Hauck
Front Desk (313) 884-2500 frontdesk@gpyc.org
Christopher Izzi
Dr. Kevin M. O'Brien
Editorial
Information for this publication should be submitted to:
Michael A. Page
William S. Turner
Marketing Director – Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org
Fleet Officers
Dare I say, spring has sprung! As we welcome another summer at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, the Club is back in full operation. Boats will soon fill our harbor, and our highly anticipated summer programs are fast approaching.
We have emerged from a tough winter with minimal damage, thanks to the hard work of our harbor staff. The resurfacing of our pickleball courts is on the horizon, pending cooperative weather and scheduling with our installers. Additionally, members are now experiencing exciting updates to the Club’s website and app, thanks to an all-hands effort led by Aaron and his team.
Staff Emails
Paul D. Kelly, Fleet Captain Power
Robert D. Eger, Fleet Captain Sail
Dr. Michele G. Ramsdell, Fleet Surgeon
General Manager – Aaron Wagner awagner@gpyc.org
Rev. Walter A. Schmidt, Fleet Chaplain
Douglas W. Manix, Fleet Measurer
Assistant General Manager – Sean Brown sbrown@gpyc.org
Michael D. Riehl, Fleet Quarter Master
Chief Financial Officer – Jim DeMasse jdemasse@gpyc.org
The Board of Directors remained active during our annual retreat in February. We were fortunate to have Ted Gillary, a longtime friend of the Club, share industry best practices and insights on key topics that will help guide our Board in executing consistent and strategic governance for years to come. Discussions covered aligning financial and brand strategies, as well as developing a results-oriented strategic plan. Additionally, our Centennial Planning Committee, led by Treasurer Mike Sobolewski, will soon share ideas for a significant campus update. We value your input and look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Committee Chairs
Thomas Stephenson, Bowling
Membership Director – Alexa Coole acoole@gpyc.org
Marketing Director – Jennifer Benoit jbenoit@gpyc.org
Treasurer Michael Sobolewski, Bylaws & Centennial
Robert Eger, DRYA
At our regular monthly Board meetings, we reviewed our annual food and beverage benchmarking reports to ensure we remain competitive while delivering excellent value to our members. A special thank you to Chef Eric and Food & Beverage Director James Ahee for consistently providing an outstanding dining experience.
Graphic Designer – Heather Shock hshock@gpyc.org
Commodore Robert Weiland, Executive
Director Christopher Izzi, Facilities
Christopher Sheeren, Finance
Human Resources Director – Gregory Martini gmartini@gpyc.org
Anthony Ventimiglia, Fitness & Wellness
Edward & Taffany Van Rossen, Fleet Review
Food & Beverage Director – Heather Aldrich haldrich@gpyc.org
Director of First Impression – Kaylee Gerniski kgerniski@gpyc.org
James Mestdagh, Foundation Scott Bade, Golf - Men's Marney Ramsey, Golf - Women's Director Michael Page, Harbor
Executive Chef – Eric Voigt evoigt@gpyc.org
Joseph Schaden, Heritage
The Club’s social calendar is packed with exciting events! A lucky group of members will soon enjoy a spring getaway to Charleston, many thanks to Past Commodore Gary Gonzalez and his wife, Chris, for leading this trip. We also look forward to seeing everyone at the Back to the Club Party on April 26. Get your Gatsby-era outfits ready! Members Dave and Rebecca Stevens have put together a spectacular event. Please make your reservations through the Front Desk.
Our rendezvous schedule is filled with fantastic destinations, many of which are open to both social members and boaters. We would love to have you join us.
Vice Commodore David Schaden, House
Harbor Master – Alex Turner aturner@gpyc.org
Catering Director – Maria Dallas mdallas@gpyc.org
Past Commodore Carl Rashid Jr, Legal Taffany Van Rossen, Membership & Membership Activities
As I’ve shared before, a healthy club is a growing club. Please share your Club experience with friends and family, and encourage them to explore all that GPYC has to offer. If you know someone who is interested, let us know—we would be honored to give them a private tour.
Tennis Director - Dmitri Diakonov tennispro@gpyc.org
Pickleball Professional - Mike Andrews picklepro@gpyc.org
Notes from the Manager
Boating Season is NOW for Everyone at GPYC!
The Grosse Pointe Yacht Club has long been a destination for yearround pursuits. From swimming in the summer to trap shooting in the winter, the Club offers something for everyone. However, at its core, GPYC is all about the waterfront lifestyle—especially boating. Whether you own a boat, dream of owning one, or simply enjoy being on the water, GPYC is the place to be.
Now, we have an exciting announcement to enhance that experience! Thanks to our partner, Colony Marine, owned by GPYC members Pete and Linda Beauregard, the Club will feature three brand-new premium boats available for daily rentals this summer. Members can book these boats through the Club website and choose from the following options:
- 26’ Cobalt R6 Surf – A sleek and powerful sport boat - 21’ Boston Whaler 210 Vantage – A high-performance speedboat - 23’ Crest Caribbean LX230 – A spacious and comfortable Tritoon
Rental rates are $400 for a half-day (4 hours) and $600 for a full day (6 hours).
To qualify for rentals, members must complete the Michigan Boating Safety Online Course. We encourage you to complete this over the winter so you're ready to hit the water when summer arrives. To take the course, visit www.boat-ed.com and register.
For more information on the Boat Rental Program, visit www.gpyc.org and click on “Lifestyle.”
We hope you take full advantage of this incredible opportunity! It’s a fantastic way to experience boating without the commitment of ownership, and it also allows current boaters to explore a different type of vessel.
Welcome to boating season—everyone!
Aaron Wagner General Manager
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:
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From the Boardroom
Dear GPYC Members,
By Secretary Kurt Saldana
With winter finally behind us, we are looking forward to beautiful spring weather and the excitement of another great season at GPYC. In just 45 days, the Harbor will be open, and preparations are well underway to ensure an exceptional experience for all members. As spring approaches, we are seeing a renewed interest in membership, with more prospective members looking to join our vibrant community.
At the recent Board of Directors meeting, discussions focused on enhancing Club facilities and member experiences. Several exciting projects are in motion to refresh and improve club spaces, ensuring members have more opportunities to connect, unwind, and enjoy the Club throughout the day. While details are still being finalized, members can look forward to expanded offerings and enhancements that further elevate the GPYC experience. The Club has also refreshed its wine menu, ensuring a high-quality and competitively priced selection, led by Food & Beverage Director James Ahee.
Financial Performance & Budget Considerations
Treasurer Sobolewski reported that for the four months ending January 2025, the Club is exceeding budget projections by $12,085, with continued strong performance in Food & Beverage. However, higher-than-budgeted costs for snow removal due to this winter's snowfall have impacted expenses.
Upcoming Events
•3-Year Club Event (4/03): A special gathering featuring Champagne & Charcuterie, a tasting, and a take-home burgee-engraved cutting board.
•Spring Getaway – Charleston (4/11–4/13): Feel free to contact Aaron Wagner for details.
•Back to the Club – Roaring 20s & Casino Night (4/26): A revamped White Party, now with a sophisticated Roaring 20s & Casino theme, chaired by Dave and Rebecca Stevens.
We look forward to a great season ahead and hope to see you at the Club soon!
Sponsorship
Opportunities Available
Contact Bethany Sly, 734-261-0123 x 2
Tradition
The Great Lakes Boating Festival is an exciting event with a long-standing history in southeast Michigan at the prestigious Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. The show is the largest spring in-water show in the region featuring boats up to 80 feet, marine products, services, accessories and more!
Free Admission
This event is open to the public and free to attend. Positioned on the beautiful shoreline of Lake St. Clair, this boating lifestyle event is sure to become one of your favorites. Parking with shuttle from North High School.
Friday, May 16: Charity Party by appointment and special access. Saturday, May 17: Noon - 7 pm Sunday, May 18: Noon - 5 pm
Location: Grosse Pointe Yacht Club 788 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, MI
Sailing Success
By Christina Noland
GPYC Sailing Success at 420 Midwinters in Jensen Beach, FL
While many were hitting the slopes over Midwinter Break, two of our most talented sailors, Peter Horst and Erin DeGrazia, took to the water in Jensen Beach, Florida, to compete in the prestigious 420 Midwinters regatta. This event attracts top sailors from across the country, with an impressive fleet of 147 boats battling it out on the water.
Peter and Erin represented our team with skill and determination, navigating challenging conditions and gaining valuable experience along the way. “It was a great opportunity for us to be able to sail in a competitive regatta during the wintertime, when we are unable to sail during this time back at home,” said Peter.
After three days of racing, they finished the regatta in 79th place—an impressive achievement in such a competitive field. “This regatta was a great experience! I learned a lot and was able to sail against tough competition at the national level, that was different from the local regattas,” Erin shared. No doubt, they gained valuable knowledge from racing against some of the best young sailors in the nation.
I am incredibly proud of their efforts and look forward to seeing how they apply their new skills in future regattas. Congratulations to Peter and Erin on their hard work and dedication to the sport of sailing!
race may end here but your family legacy
Jason M Geisz, has competed in the Bayview Mackinac Race for 24 consecutive years, winning back-to-back in 2009 and 2010, and being on the podium 4 other times in the last 5 years, after campaigning his Tripp 36, ‘Affirmed’, from 2011-2015. Jason is currently crewing on the SC70 ‘Evolution’, a member of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club and CEO and Founder of Famiglia Wealth.
At Famiglia Wealth, “wealth is about family….always.”
Contact Jason at: 248-341-0592 or jason@famigliawealth.net www.famigliawealth.net
To Your Health
By Peter Wendzinski
Choosing the Right Smartwatch for Your Needs
Smartwatches are essential tools for tracking fitness, staying connected, and improving health, but with so many options available, it can be tough to find the right one for you. I’ve used an Apple Watch for its versatility and seamless iPhone integration, but I’m now considering switching to a Garmin or Whoop due to their unique features and battery performance.
Apple Watch: Great for Daily Use, But Battery Drains Quickly
The Apple Watch is perfect for daily use—it offers fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and smooth integration with your iPhone. However, one drawback I’ve noticed is that its battery can drain quickly, especially when using apps. Whether it’s tracking a workout with GPS or running multiple apps at once, the battery can run low within a day, often requiring a midday charge. This makes it less ideal for long runs or extended outdoor activities where you need the watch to last for several hours.
Garmin: Built for Endurance Athletes
Garmin watches, on the other hand, are known for their long battery life. Some models last up to several days, even with continuous GPS tracking. For runners or outdoor enthusiasts, Garmin watches like the Forerunner and Fenix series offer advanced metrics like VO2 max and lactate threshold, making them ideal for serious athletes who need reliable performance over long periods.
Whoop: Focused on Recovery and Performance
Whoop takes a different approach to fitness tracking, focusing on recovery, strain, and sleep rather than traditional smartwatch features. The Whoop strap offers continuous monitoring with a battery life of up to five days, making it perfect for those who prioritize long-term health and performance optimization.
Which One is Right for You?
When choosing the right watch, it depends on your priorities:
• Apple Watch: Best for all-around use and daily fitness tracking, but may require frequent charging, especially when using apps.
• Garmin: Ideal for athletes who need long battery life and advanced sports metrics.
• Whoop: Perfect for those focused on recovery and long-term performance optimization.
Each smartwatch has its strengths, so it’s important to find the one that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. Whether you need a stylish smartwatch, a battery powerhouse for endurance, or a recovery-focused tracker, there’s an option out there for you.
Danny DeKeyser Sales Associate
Specializing in:
Residential home sales
Commercial properties
Investment properties
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Covering all of southeast Michigan as well as Northern Michigan
C: 313-513-0984
Danny.DeKeyser@SarosRES.com 17108 Mack Ave. Grosse Pointe, Mi 48230
Up Your Alley
By Gordy Woods
Rolling Recognition
It has been 80 years since the GPYC bowling lanes were built, but on March 3, 2025, history was made! Charles Molnar became the first member to roll an 800 series, an extraordinary feat for any bowler. Charles delivered an impressive performance with games of 258, 299, and 245, totaling an 802 series. Did we mention he averages over 220?
Earlier this year, Charles also bowled a perfect 300 game, making this an unforgettable season for him. The 802 series marks his first sanctioned 800 series—a milestone truly worth celebrating!
Other Notable Scores
Wednesday Night League – Dominic Neumann 257, Dianna Smith 181
Thursday Morning Ladies – Barbara Alcorn 167, Julie Storen +152 over average
Thursday Night Mixed – Sean Fannon 254, Marilyn Stephenson 190
Member Guest Bowling Tournament Recap
On February 15, GPYC hosted its inaugural Member/Guest Bowling Tournament, where 15 members teamed up with guests for an afternoon of friendly competition. Congratulations to our winners:
First Place – Steve McQueen & Brian Stidham (Handicap Score: 1,499)
Second Place – David Schaden & Gordon Ford (1,409)
Third Place – Gardner Martin & Ryan Gunderson
Spring Bowling League – Sign Up Now!
We’re excited to launch a Spring Bowling League, kicking off April 24 and running for five weeks until Memorial Day weekend. The cost is $20 per week, and you only pay when you bowl.
Interested? Email me at gwoods@gpyc.org to sign up!
Thank you for supporting the GPYC Bowling Program!
Upcoming Events - April
Saturday, April 5
Wednesday Mixed vs. Thursday Mixed League Challenge
Saturday, April 12
Ladies GPYC vs. Red Run Interclub
Wednesday, April 16
Team Club Championship
Thursday, April 17
Individual Club Championship
Thursday, April 24
Thursday Night Spring Bowling League
Open Bowling Schedule
5:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Friday, April 11
Saturday, April 12
Saturday, April 19
Friday, April 25
Saturday, April 26
Harbor Happenings
Dear Harbor Residents,
By Alex Turner
We’re actively working to prepare the Harbor for the upcoming season by clearing all the winter debris, removing ice eaters and pulling furniture out of storage. We look forward to a great season with many activities and events for you to enjoy in the coming months.
As you’re getting ready to launch and return for the 2025 season, I’ve attached a few important reminders for you!
•You must notify us of your arrival plan so we can have your well ready, staff on call, and verify all insurance documents. (You must list the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club as additional insured)
•A ssume that you will have plenty of debris in the lake to avoid and travel with caution. Pending arrival dates, entrance buoys might not be installed.
•Expect high winds, rain, and varying water levels for the month. It is critical that you keep an eye on lines as they stretch, put out fenders as needed and contact us if you’re going out of town.
•Water, fuel and pump out service is customarily turned on May 1, 2025. Weather patterns might impact this date for certain services, and if it changes it will be blasted within The Buzz and on social media.
•Harbor Staff hours are 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in the month of April.
•Full operation hours begin May 1, 2025 (7:00 am to 11:00 pm)
Join the Sailfish Swim Team!
Ready to dive into an unforgettable summer? Join the GPYC Sailfish Swim Team and experience expert coaching, team camaraderie, and plenty of fun in the pool! Whether you're perfecting your strokes or competing for personal bests, the Sailfish team is the place to be.
Sign up today! Contact Head Coach Jim Singelyn at jsingelyn@gpyc.org or Swim Chair Michelle Shore at michelle.shore@me.com to get started.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting summer tradition!
VIP's of the GPYC
National Pet Day is celebrated annually on April 11. It's a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating the wonderful pets in our lives. We asked the members to send in all of their beloved pets to celebrate with us!
Ellie Van Rossen
Bo Weiland
The Martin Dogs
Hamlet Prush Maverick Russell
The O'Neill
Stella Fannon
Darby Rodriguez
Beans Herbert
Abby Graziani
The Gaedcke Family
Sugar Gust
Maggie Mae Ramsey
Paisley Parker
Abby Schaden
Sherman Shore
Aspen Vasilou
The Allard Family
Packer Fish
Feltcher DeGrazia
Finley Joseph
GPYC Upcoming Events
Mahjong
Wednesday, April 2 | 1:00 p.m.
Interest in this game has been phenomenal. The game provides you an opportunity to meet new people as well as play with existing friends.
If you are interested in more information or lessons, please contact Nancy Hohlfeldt at (313) 418-0800 or Joyce Rubino at (860) 305-6174.
Additional Dates:
Wednesday, April 9 | 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 16 | 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 23 | 1:00 p.m.
Wednesday, April 30 | 1:00 p.m.
Ladies Book Club
Wednesday, April 2 | 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.
Please contact Mariann Channell at medievalmd@aol.com if you are not already on the Book Club email list.
Gatsby Glamour & Derby Chic Pop Up
Thursday, April 3 | 6:00 p.m.
Join us in the Spinnaker for a stylish evening as the Peacock Room showcases a stunning collection of Gatsby Glamour and Derby Chic merchandise. From elegant accessories to race-day fashion, find the perfect pieces to elevate your look for the upcoming Back to the Club Party & Kentucky Derby Watch Party!
Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 19 | 2:00 & 3:30 p.m.
Join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt outside the Clubhouse! Children will have the opportunity to hunt for eggs, visit a petting zoo, enjoy crafts and face painting, and take photos with the Easter Bunny and Easter Chick, courtesy of John Martin Photography. There will also be a live DJ, and Easter cookies, brownies, and soft drinks will be available.Kids will get chicken tenders and fries meal.
$28++ per child 2 and up
Drinks are by subscription.
Easter Brunch
Sunday, April 20 | 10:30 a.m. & 1:30 p.m.
Hop into Easter fun at the Club! Enjoy a delicious brunch featuring a Raw Bar Station, Omelet Station, and a variety of breakfast and lunch favorites.
The Easter Bunny will be greeting guests, while Baffling Bill and Gus the Bunny amaze with strolling magic, and Miss Tootsee will be creating fun balloon twists.
Step back into the Roaring '20s with complimentary champagne during cocktail hour, strolling hors d’oeuvre stations, entertainment, and '20s themed drink specials.
Attendees will receive 1 drink ticket.
Wear your best '20s attire and join us for one of the biggest parties of the year!
$100++ 10guestsormorewillreceive10%off
Drinks are by subscription.
Sunday Brunch & Brunch and Bowl
Every Sunday in April 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Join us for Brunch is every Sunday in the Main Dining Room. Enjoy an omelette station, fresh fruit, homemade desserts and other brunch items.
$30++ per adult
$16++ per child
Drinks are available by subscription.
Reservations can be made through our website, mobile app, or by contacting the Front Desk at (313) 884-2500 or email frontdesk@gpyc.org.
• Boat Tops & Covers
• Custom Interiors
• Marine Carpet
• Cushions & Upholstery
• Contract Sewing
• Exceptional Traction
• Unparalleled Comfort
• Shock Absorption
• Yacht Enclosures
• Acrylic & Bonded Windows
• Sailboat Dodgers
• Canvas Service & Repair
• SeaDek Flooring
• Protection for Boat Surfaces
• Noise Reduction
Custom Outdoor Patio Covers
Membership Matters
By Alexa Coole
Spring into the Season!
Spring is officially here, and we’re gearing up for an exciting season at GPYC! With new events, enhanced programs, and even more opportunities to connect, there’s so much to look forward to.
We’re kicking things off with our first Three-Year Event of the season on Thursday, April 3! This special gathering celebrates all the wonderful members who have joined the Club over the past three years.
Fun fact: The Three-Year program isn’t just for members who have been here exactly three years, it includes everyone who has joined from 0 months to three years. These exclusive events are designed to help newer members get familiar with the Club, make new friends, and build lasting connections. If you receive an invite, I highly encourage you to attend. You won’t regret it!
Another exciting update, our boat rental program is officially live and ready for booking! Members can rent boats for 4 or 6 hours each day, and we’ve added some fantastic "add-on" features to enhance your experience. Some of our “add on” options include a boat captain, stocked coolers, boat platters, a fishing guide (subject to availability), and lily pad rentals. To participate, members just need to complete the required course, linked in The Buzz & Weekend Ahead, before making their first reservation. This is a fantastic way to get out on the water and enjoy the best of the boating season with ease!
As a final note, don’t forget to introduce yourselves to the new faces you see around the Club! We’ve welcomed over thirty new members into our wonderful GPYC community, and a warm hello can go a long way in making everyone feel at home.
We can’t wait to see you at the Club and share in all the fun this season has to offer!
Culinary Excellence
By Chef Eric Voigt
Easter Feasting: A Celebration of Tradition and Flavor
Easter is more than just a holiday, it’s a time of renewal, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious food. Across cultures and countries, Easter feasts bring people together with dishes that symbolize tradition, faith, and the arrival of spring. From sweet treats to savory roasts, let’s explore the flavors that make Easter a truly special occasion.
Classic Easter Dishes Around the World
Hot Cross Buns (United Kingdom & Beyond)
A staple of Good Friday, these spiced, sweet buns marked with a cross have been enjoyed for centuries. Traditionally flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruit, they symbolize the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.
Lamb Roast (Europe & America)
Lamb has deep religious symbolism in Easter celebrations, representing Jesus as the "Lamb of God." In many households, a succulent roasted leg of lamb, seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and lemon, takes center stage at Easter dinner.
Easter Bread & Cakes
Different cultures celebrate Easter with unique breads and cakes, each with special meaning:
• Colomba di Pasqua (Italy): A dove-shaped sweet bread, similar to panettone, often topped with almonds and sugar.
• Kulich (Russia & Eastern Europe): A tall, cylindrical Easter bread, typically decorated with icing and colorful sprinkles.
• Paska (Ukraine & Poland): A rich, eggy bread, sometimes adorned with intricate dough designs.
Deviled Eggs (United States & Europe)
Eggs have long been a symbol of new life and rebirth, making them a natural fit for Easter. Deviled eggs, made by mixing hard-boiled yolks with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings, are a popular appetizer at Easter gatherings.
Ham (United States)
In many American households, glazed ham is the star of the Easter table. Often coated with a honey or brown sugar glaze, it’s a sweet and savory centerpiece that pairs perfectly with sides like scalloped potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Sweet Easter Treats
Chocolate Eggs & Bunnies
The tradition of chocolate eggs stems from ancient springtime fertility symbols and has been embraced worldwide. From handcrafted artisanal chocolates to mass-produced favorites, Easter wouldn’t be the same without them.
Carrot Cake
A moist, spiced cake with cream cheese frosting, carrot cake is a beloved Easter dessert. Its connection to spring and the Easter Bunny makes it a fitting addition to the holiday menu.
Bringing Easter to Your Table
No matter where you celebrate, Easter is a time for gathering around the table with loved ones. Whether you prepare a traditional family recipe or try something new, the joy of sharing a meal is at the heart of the holiday.
This April, embrace the flavors of Easter and make your holiday feast a memorable one!
• 1 (6- to 8-pound) boneless leg of lamb, butterflied to an even 1-inch thickness and trimmed of excess fat
Method:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small, non-reactive saucepan over medium heat, warm the olive oil until shimmering, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, shallot, anchovies, rosemary, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shallots and garlic are softened, 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a small heatproof bowl. Stir in the salt and pepper.
5. Rub half of the mixture inside the butterflied lamb leg.
6. Roll the lamb leg and tie it securely at 1-inch intervals with butcher’s twine.
7. Rub the remaining mixture over the exterior of the lamb.
8. Optional: For the best flavor and texture, rest the lamb uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours.
9. When ready to cook, place the lamb, fat side up, on a wire rack set in a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet.
10. Transfer to the oven and roast until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest section of the lamb registers:
• 110°F to 115°F for medium-rare
• 120°F to 125°F for medium
This will take 2 to 3 hours.
11. Remove from the oven and rest, covered, for 40 minutes to 1 hour.
12. While the lamb is resting, increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C).
13. Return the lamb to the oven and roast until the exterior is deep brown and crisp, about 15 minutes.
14. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
15. Remove the twine with kitchen shears, transfer the lamb to a cutting board, and slice into 1/4-inch slices.
Club Highlights St. Patrick's Day Party
The luck of the Irish was in full swing at our St. Patrick’s Day Party in the Pub! Members gathered for a festive evening filled with lively music, delicious bites, and plenty of green spirit. The Pub was buzzing with energy as guests enjoyed classic Irish tunes performed by the talented live entertainment.
A special thank you to Commodore Jason Grobbel for generously sponsoring the live music and appetizers, making the celebration even more memorable. From savory snacks to toe-tapping melodies, it was a night of camaraderie and fun that brought out the Irish in all of us.
Sláinte to everyone who joined us—we can’t wait for next year’s celebration!
Staff Spotlight
Interviewed By: Jennifer Benoit
We are incredibly grateful to have Everett Deal as part of our team. With nearly a decade of experience in banquet management and a strong background in hospitality, Everett brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to our Club. His passion for service, leadership, and teamwork is evident in everything he does. Get to know Everett a little better as he shares more about his background, interests, and inspirations.
Can you tell us about your career journey?
I started in hospitality as an on-call set-up team member and worked my way up to on-call server and bartender. Eventually, I became a Banquet Manager at MotorCity Casino Hotel, where I spent seven years in that role after four years as an overnight auditing manager for the hotel. Now, I’m thrilled to be here at GPYC, continuing my passion for exceptional service and event management.
Where’s home for you, and where did you go to college?
I’m from Detroit and the oldest of nine siblings. I attended Morris Brown College in Atlanta, GA – which is a historical black liberal arts college.
What is your favorite sport to play or watch?
Basketball is my favorite sport, both to play and watch. I played for eight years during school and spent five years coaching high school and AAU basketball.
If you could go on vacation anywhere, where would you go and why?
Wherever my wife wants to go! She’s always wanted to travel overseas, and while I don’t love long flights—anything over four hours and I start to lose it—I’d make an exception for her. Paris is high on our list.
If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, living or deceased, who would it be? I would choose my uncle, whom I was named after. He passed away two years before I was born, and I’ve heard so many great things about him. I’d love the opportunity to learn more about him firsthand.
VIP's of the GPYC Staff
Lulu & Winston Woods
Puppy & Poopers Wood
Louie & Ben Benoit
George Wendzinski
Blue Coole Bruno Dallas
Calvin Ahee
Maple Wagner
Cali Nutting
Nova Moore
Coconut Dallas
Cooper Moore
Pebbles Deal
Skylar Deal
Libby Hauff
Penny Wood
Chloe Welcdon
GPYC News
Harbor Info
April 1 through April 30
8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
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
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 our Membership Director, Alexa Coole for any additional information at (313) 640-3188 or email acoole@gpyc.org.
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 ServiceConcierge
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.
Spring & Summer Clubhouse Attire
Gentlemen (ages 12-up):
Collared shirts with tailored pants, denim or dress-length shorts may be worn. Hoodies, t-shirts and hats are not permitted. Athletic attire, pants or denim with holes or rips, cut-off shorts, swimwear and shirts without sleeves are prohibited. Sandals may be worn, rubber shoes, Crocs or slides may not be worn. Shirts and cover-ups must be worn on the Gazebo Deck.
Ladies (ages 12-up): Blouse, sweater or collared shirt with tailored pants, denim or appropriate shorts may be worn. Dresses and skirts worn in good taste are also permitted. Hoodies and t-shirts are not permitted. 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, cut-off shorts and swimwear are prohibited. Sandals may be worn, rubber shoes, Crocs or slides may not be worn. Shirts and coverups must be worn on the Gazebo Deck. Family friendly attire is required at the pool.
Athletic Attire: Athletic attire is restricted to the Fitness Center and Locker Rooms. Members and guests wearing athletic attire are encouraged to enter and exit through the south side of the Clubhouse, either the locker room entrance on the lower level or the entrance nearest the Fitness Center. Athletic attire may be worn on the Binnacle Terrace during breakfast and lunch only.
Outerwear: All coats and outerwear must be worn or kept at coat check. Coats and outerwear are not to be hung on chairs in the dining room.
Event Specific Attire: Any events that require specific attire will be outlined in the event description or invitation.
Online ReservationsDining
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.
A La Carte Lunch Service
Lunch will resume April 30, 2025.
A La Carte Dining
A La Carte Dining is available Wednesday through Sunday at the Club for dinner. Please be sure to check The Weekly Buzz and other publications for dining hours and dining rooms available.
Grog Shop Store Hours
Saturday, April 19 | 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Saturday, April 26 | 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday, April 27 | 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Please be sure to check The Weekly Buzz and other publications for Grog Shop hours. If you have any questions, please call (313) 774-0187 or email jbenoit@gpyc.org.
Kid's Club
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 your children's favorites!
To maintain the appropriate staff-to-child ratio, the maximum number of children who can 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, but there will be an additional $20 charge per walk-in visit.
By Past Commodore James L. Ramsey
Looking Aft Sea Witch: The Ship Behind the Painting
Anyone familiar with the massive 10-by 20-foot oil painting that hangs above the fireplace in the Club Ballroom (pictured topright) knows something of how it came to be: How it was commissioned by Commodore John French to commemorate the grand opening of the clubhouse in 1929; how it was painted in Massachusetts by noted marine artist Frank Vining Smith; and how it depicts an actual race between three fast clipper ships in the mid-1800s – the Raven,Typhoonand SeaWitch -- all running hard under full sail somewhere in a choppy China Sea. It’s a dramatic scene, an impressive work of art and certainly one of the Club’s proudest possessions.
What is not so well-known is the story of the ship in the foreground. The SeaWitchwas a real-life American clipper ship in the days before steam power, built to haul valuable cargoes of tea and porcelain from China to New York in the fastest possible manner. To that end, her 170-foot hull was rigged for speed with three unusually tall 140-foot masts, each of which carried five sails that powered her through strong winds and heavy seas, setting long-distance sailing records that are unbroken to this day.
In 1847, under the command of Captain Robert “Bully Bob” Waterman, the SeaWitchmade a record-setting run from Hong Kong to New York in 77 days. Two years later, under the same skipper, she made the run in 74 days. That record stood for over 150 years until 2003, when the racing trimaran Great American II lowered it to 72 days. Even so, the SeaWitch’s record time still stands for mono-hull sail craft -- and it was achieved without modern electronics to expedite navigation and weather forecasting.
With the discovery of gold in California in 1848, the owners of SeaWitchchanged her mission. She would no longer make the tea run from China to New York. Instead, she would carry precious gold ore from San Francisco around Cape Horn to her home port in New York, a voyage she achieved in 1850 in the record time of 97 days. She was the first ship in history to complete the trip in under 100 days.
But time and hard use eventually took a toll of the speedy freighter. As her condition deteriorated, she was relegated to use as a transport carrying passengers from the Orient to the Western Hemisphere. In 1856, with some 500 Chinese immigrants aboard, she struck a reef just west of Havana, Cuba, and sank. The loss of human lives in the sinking was tragic enough, but it also claimed one of the greatest – and swiftest –sailing ships of all time. Because of her wood construction and the lack of salvage capabilities in the Caribbean, the SeaWitch was never recovered. But while the ship may have been lost to the deep, her legend as a lightning-fast, trans-world cargo carrier remains intact.
Thanks to the skilled brush strokes of Frank Vining Smith, the SeaWitchsails powerfully on -- in immortality, we hope -- high above the festive floors of our ballroom. It’s a painting of a ship, yes. But more than that, the SeaWitchseems to symbolize the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club itself: a tall, determined vessel sailing true and proud upon the challenging waters of life.
