The San Francisco Yacht Club
November 2011
November 2009
THE
BULLETIN
The Bulletin
Magazine of The San Francisco Yacht Club November 2011 Volume 17 • Issue 10 OFFICERS & DIRECTORS
Columns
Departments
AUXILIARY OFFICERS & DIRECTORS President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Directors:
Lisa Harris Melissa Tulp Mimi Blakeslee Lori Fromm Molly Brilliant Ginny De Maria Tina Setzer Ginna Milan Sue Milliron Marily Rimmer Vicki Silverman Jane Young Alisa Bekins - Ex-Officio Emily Heller - Honorary General Manager Steve DePetro Asst. General Manager Evelyne Swinscoe-Byer
THE BULLETIN Editor Ads/Calendar Editor Race Editor Production Manager Bulletin Committee
Contributors
Photographers
P/P Mimi Cornelius AGM Evelyne Swinscoe-Byer Ross Tibbits Vince Mattera Joan Linn Bekins Mike North P/P Sally Secor Barbara Raeuber Thomas P/P Jane Watts Bob McDermott David Carrel, S/C Ken Frost, Forrest Gay, Scott Harris, Harold Kleiderman, S/C Carl Lewis, Angie Lackey Olson, Chef Reny Madrid, Steve Mason, Ginger Souders Mason, Anne McCormack, Bob McDermott,Suzie Moore, P/P Janice Still, Bob Van Blaricom Tony Hooker, Jim Rimmer, Molly Robinson.Vickie Silverman, Ron Steinau, S/C Jon Swain, Duane Yoslov, Natalie Watson, Tim Wilkes
THE SAN FRANCISCO YACHT CLUB 98 Beach Road • P.O. Box 379 Belvedere, CA 94920-0379 (415) 435-9133 • FAX (415) 435-8547 www.sfyc.org
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photo by S/C John Swain
Commodore Auxiliary News General Manager Food and Beverage Yellow topped pilings marked safety ladders
Bowline Club News Race News Youth Sailing
Features 11 15 16 19
A Point in Time Scholarship Program Cruising Crossing Wakes
November 2009
photo by Tony Hooker
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The SFYC Burgee flew proudly during the International Cruise
Social Events 20
On the Horizon
Cover photo: Charles Froeb and Jim Johnstone qualified for the 2012 US Sailing Multihull Championship on Froeb’s new Hobie Wildcat F18, in a fleet of 21 boats recently at the Richmond YC. Froeb say’s, “I registered under SFYC burgee and my boat has burgee stickers on each hull. A guy named Bill Gage approached me afterwards and said he was ‘surprised and pleased to see a catamaran racing and winning under the SFYC burgee.’” Cover photo by Tim Wilkes
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photo by Molly Robinson
Robert Heller W. Robert Griswold Thomas C. Lacey Paul S. Rosenlund Suzie Moore Jay Hooker Daniel C. Buckstaff Edward Lynch William Melbostad Angie Lackey Olson William Stark Jr. S/C Raymond Lynch
Lola Bushnell leads around the leeward mark.
photo by Jim Rimmer
Commodore Vice Commodore Rear Commodore Secretary Treasurer Port Captain Directors:
The San Francisco Yacht Club
Copperhead brought beauty and excitement to The Leukemia Cup
From the Commodore Bob Heller, Commodore / commodore@sfyc.org
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y now, most of you have had the opportunity to welcome our new General Manager, Steve DePetro, to The Club. Indeed, many club members were already well acquainted with Steve because he had served in years past as the General Manager at both the Bohemian Club and the St. Francis Yacht Club across The Bay. Given the considerable overlap in our memberships, his first few days at SFYC sometimes had more of the flavor of a homecoming or reunion of old friends and acquaintances than the introduction of a new GM. So it was no surprise that at the formal welcoming reception for Steve it was standing-room only! The beautiful days of Indian Summer brought an end to a very busy racing season, with our club hosting the Express 27 U.S. National Championship and the Farr 30 Pre-Worlds, along with a long list of club races. We were also privileged to host the Seattle Yacht Club for the Perpetual Cup Challenge that brought some exhilarating races on The Bay. Things were not so exciting for SFYC racers who traveled to the Chesapeake Bay to defend the Corinthian Cup against the well-prepared Annapolis Yacht Club. Unfortunately, the very light wind conditions were not what our racers excel in, so Annapolis took home the trophy. The conditions reminded me of my sailing days on the Chesapeake when we were living in Washington, DC. I do not recall with pleasure the days when the mosquitoes were faster than the wind. We are lucky to live on San Francisco Bay! After a highly successful summer season came to a close for our Junior Sailors, they celebrated their many accomplishments with a fun and festive dinner party dressed up in their finest. All the trophy winners are listed on the Youth
S/C Ray Lynch, Kim Lynch, Emily Heller and Commodore Bob Heller recently represented The SFYC at the International Council of Yacht Clubs in Seattle, Washington. (Yes, that is The America’s Cup on the table behind them.)
Sailing pages. Forrest Gay, our Director of Sailing, was celebrated with a standing ovation by SFYC’s exuberant future Olympians and their grateful parents. Our cruisers enjoyed a spectacular fall cruise through the Greek and Turkish islands and barely noticed the local unrest along the way. My family was fortunate enough to enjoy cruising the beautiful and serene Canadian Northwest, using the home of our in-laws at Bliss Landing on Desolation Sound as a home base. Other club members cruising the same waters, included Staff Commodores George Vare and Mitch Wilk as well as Wyman and Gay Harris. While we never encountered each other in the vast expanses of the Northwest, we were able to trade phone calls and e-mail messages with them. No Commodore’s column can be complete without an update on the maintenance and construction projects taking place at The Club. You will have noticed that the Harbor renovation is well under way. The renovations of the “Zero Dock”, as well as the Member and Guest Docks, have now been completed well under budget and ahead of schedule thanks to the able leadership of Ed Lynch and the Harbor Committee. Everyone appreciates the more stable docks and the resilient skid-resistant decking. We have begun work on the “100 Dock” and hope to complete the “100” to “300” Dock renovation a little more than a year from now. We were able to schedule the entire project more quickly than initially anticipated to take advantage of very favorable labor and material pricing. Sometimes the bad economic conditions work to our advantage. We hope to have a similar performance with the kitchen renovation. We are now applying for a building permit for this badly needed and long overdue project, which will bring our kitchen up to standard. But because our refrigeration, dish washing and food preparation space will expand, we need to find a new home for our Accounting and General Manager’s offices. Many alternatives have been considered, including an addition to the main clubhouse and putting a second story addition onto the Sailing Center. But in the end, neither of these ideas was judged to be optimal. So we are now exploring whether it would be feasible to create some more space in conjunction with the renovation of the Cove House. All this will cost money – and we are very mindful of that. But eventually we will have to do the necessary maintenance and renovations to keep our club up to the standards that we all expect and enjoy. If you have an idea or suggestion to contribute, please let us know. As always, wishing you pleasant winds and fair sailing!
Commodore Bob
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The Bowline Keeping the SFYC membership tied to what’s happening around The Club
IMPORTANT HARBOR SAFETY MESSAGE TO ALL SFYC MEMBERS AND GUESTS Safety ladders have been installed to provide a quick and easier way for people who have fallen into the water to climb out on the SFYC docks. Please be aware that safety ladders are located near each YELLOW TOPPED piling in the SFYC harbor.
bulletin@sfyc.org
Celebrating the 44th Anniversary of the Commodores’ Ball
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik
Castle on the Rhine Honoring Bob Heller & the Staff Commodores
Reminisce & revel in the beauty of the Rhine! Saturday, November 5th
Champagne Reception 6:00 p.m. Dinner 7:30 p.m. Dancing 9:00 p.m. Black Tie
Do You Have A Story? Do you have a story, photo, or idea for an article you would like to share with the SFYC membership? The Bulletin editors welcome submissions and ideas. Please contact the editors at bulletin@sfyc.org.
P/P Mimi Cornelius Assistant General Manager Bulletin Editor Evelyne Swinscoe-Byer Ads/Calendar Editor
Ross Tibbits Race Editor
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Kindly respond to the Front Office at 435-9133, extension 10
Chair Elizabeth Merrill
THE SAN FRANCISCO YACHT CLUB AUXILIARY
2011 Annual Meeting Luncheon Thursday, November 17 10:30 a.m.
Welcoming America’s Cup 2013 Featured Speaker Tina Kleinjan Setzer A Lady Remembers! $45.00 per person (Inclusive of Service & Tax) Shopping
RSVP Front Office: 435-9133 ext.10
H H H H H H The San Francisco Yacht Club’s 142ndAnnual Members’ Meeting Saturday, December 3, 2011 12 Noon Club is closed for Members ONLY 1 to 3 p.m. Hosted Buffet Lunch 2 to 5 p.m. Games – Voting from 12 noon to 5 p.m. – Special Luncheon Speaker 5 p.m. ANNUAL MEETING 6 to 7 p.m. Hosted Bar 7 p.m. Hosted Dinner Stay after dinner for our special Entertainment
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Club News
Valkyrie Comes Home By Commodore Bob Heller
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few weeks ago I had the honor to be invited to the Commodore’s Dinner at the St. Francis Yacht Club. This is a rather formal and elegant event preceding the annual St. Francis Tinsley Island Cruise. In addition to the StFYC Flag Officers hosting the event, the guests included the current Commodores of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club, the Seattle Yacht Club, the Santa Barbara Yacht Club and others. After the dinner, St. Francis Staff Commodore Robert C. Keefe rose and stated that he would like to make a special presentation. S/C Keefe served as Commodore in 1975, the year after the great 1974 Christmas fire that burned the StFYC Clubhouse to the ground. S/C Keefe related the story of a lady who came to the club soon after the fire and presented a beautiful model of a sailing yacht. She stated, “I heard you lost everything in the fire and so I wanted you to have this nice model of a sailing yacht that used to belong to my husband” With that she turned around and disappeared. Careful research by the St. Francis revealed that the sailing yacht model that the anonymous woman left behind was Valkyrie, a beautiful 34 footer designed and built in the 1930’s. But the research also showed that Valkyrie had never sailed under the St. Francis burgee. S/C Keefe’s gaze was now firmly fixed upon me as he revealed that further research had shown that she actually sailed under the San Francisco Yacht Club burgee. He very graciously added that in the spirit of friendship and good will that has always prevailed between our two clubs, Valkyrie should come home to the club across the Bay. Needless to say, I was very touched, expressed our thanks for this gracious gift and promised to give her a good home. After taking Valkyrie very carefully home, I contacted our Club Historian, S/C Ken Frost and related the story to him. I asked Ken whether he knew who had owned the boat. The following day, I had the results
of Ken’s meticulous research. His recollections are summarized below. Valkyrie had been originally owned by Gus Barth, who was a member of our club long before The Club moved to Belvedere. Eventually, Valkyrie was passed down to his son, Bob, who sailed the boat out of Belvedere Cove throughout the 1950’s and 60’s. Ken states that “She was comfortable, but not fast.” Ken added that Bob and Ruth Barth were great friends of Midge and John Moore. John, who unfortunately passed away last year, became a SFYC member in 1953 and was the SFYC Treasurer for many years when the harbor was financed and built. Midge is still a very active member. At that point the story became even more interesting and personal to me because Midge Moore is the grandmother
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of Megan, who is married to my son Chris, who is also an SFYC member. When I showed the model to Midge Moore’s daughters, Kathy, and Robin Moore, who is also a member of The Club, Robin exclaimed, “Oh I loved Valkyrie. As kids Joan Barth, the daughter of the owner Bob Barth and I used to play on Valkyrie while Joan’s mom, Ruth, cooked pancakes down below. As a matter of fact, I still have the oars of Valkyrie’s dinghy hanging in my own living room!” Needless to say, I was more than surprised to learn about all these connections and the many friends and relatives that Valkyrie had touched. They personalized Valkyrie’s homecoming for many of us and we will do our best to give her a good new home at The SFYC.
Race News Angie Lackey Olson / Anne McCormack
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s 2011 Leukemia Cup Regatta Hits $1Million Milestone Top charity Regatta in the nation raises funds for blood cancer research and patient services. eukemia Cup Honorary Chairman, Tom Perkins, and VIP Dinner guest speaker, John Doerr of Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, along with hundreds of Bay Area sailors raised an impressive $1,020,000 for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) at the sixth annual Leukemia Cup Regatta on October 1-2, 2011. This annual fundraising regatta continues to be the top charity regatta in the nation and supports LLS’s mission to find a cure for leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma and improve the quality of life for patients and their families. This year’s top individual fundraiser was Leukemia Cup Committee Co-Chair, Anne Feinberg, with a total of $35,055. Anne and the Fast Friends crew also received the Leukemia Cup Perpetual Trophy, an award given to the top fundraising boat. Charles Froeb came in second with a total of $29,813 and Bill Nolan placed third with a total of $25,900. These top fundraisers, along with thirteen other participants who raised over $8,500, qualified to attend a weekend sailing event in New York City with National Chairman, Gary Jobson.
photo by Jim Rimmer
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Leukemia Cup supporter Bob Ray and his children enjoyed the race aboard Jim and Marily Rimmer’s Avatar. In an exquisitely decorated dinner setting by Anne Feinberg and Committee Member Stacy Achuck, guest speaker, John Doerr delivered a stimulating discussion regarding social media, mobile applications and the local versus global indications of these technologies.The live auction following Mr. Doerr’s presentation raised more than $125,000. One of the premier lots at the auction was a private dinner with Tom Perkins at his Millennium Tower Penthouse. Executive Committee member Bill Nolan was the lucky winner. In
Leukemia Cup Honorary Chairman, Tom Perkins, and VIP Dinner guest speaker, John Doerr of Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers addition, Brad Webb auctioned a sail for 12 guests aboard USA 76 and John Doerr purchased it. Other auction items included an AC45 catamaran ride from Artemis Racing and a guest racer spot on ORACLE Racing’s AC45. Montres CORUM USA donated two beautiful Admiral’s Cup watches, one for the top fundraising trophy award and another for the auction. Leukemia Cup top fundraiser, Anne Feinberg, generously donated her prize watch, which literally caused the event to cross the $1 million threshold. Seventy-three boats competed in a variety of classes on Sunday, October 2, 2011. The race was PHRF with spinnaker and non-spinnaker divisions. The class winners include: Skip McCormack, Trunk Monkey (Div 1 spinnaker); Frank Morrow, Hawkeye (Div 2 spinnaker); Phillip Laby, Godot (Div 3 J/105); Hank Easom, Yucca (Div 4 spinnaker); Magnus “Julle” LeVicki, Min Flicka (Div 5 spinnaker); Jim Lindsey, Topgallant (Div 6); David Borton, French Kiss (Div 7); Craig McDow, Sweet Reward (Div 8); Susan Bell, Twinidad (Div 9 Colgate 26). Final race results are posted on the SFYC website at www.sfyc.org.
SAVE THE DATE: Race Recognition Night Saturday, November 12 6 p.m. Mexican Fiesta Buffet $14.95 subject to service and tax Members’ Dining Room
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WOSSER CUP By Bob McDermott
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t was a glorious day for the final two races of this year’s Club Series, the double-header Wosser Cup, sailed on a sparkling Bay ruffled by breezes of ten to 15 knots. The sailors and the race committee had the added attraction (or was it a distraction?) of the Fleet Week air show, which however, restricted City Front access. To accommodate the southwest wind PRO Tim Russell set the Yellow Bluff buoy a bit to the south to have a good weather first leg. Then, to get a balance between up/down and reaching legs Tim sent the 21 boat fleet on a triangular course from the Start near Knox to Yellow Bluff, Harding Rock and back to Start followed by a “sausage” to Yellow Bluff and Finish, just over six nm. Since the wind was fading in mid-afternoon just as the ebb current was picking up, Tim chose a simpler and shorter (4.6 nm) double “sausage” course to Yellow Bluff for the second race which had only 19 starters as two boats succumbed to the allure of the Blue Angels and headed across the Bay. Fortunately the westerly breeze kicked in as the last boats rounded the mark the second time allowing all starters to finish without a problem. The leaderboard’s results were consistent with the performances throughout the year. Doug Holm and his supersized crew in Mirthmaker got a bullet in the first race and second in the second race to finish first for the day in the Spinnaker Division. Coming in second was Trig Liljestrand in Ragtime who delivered his best performance of the year, placing third and first, while Steve Stroub in Tiburon had to settle for third place with a second and a fourth. For those without kites the seemingly unbeatable Glen Issacson in Q had two bullets while Eben Marsh in Elusive (third and second) had to share second place with Kyle Elliott and Bill Smith in Fast Friends (second and third). Special mention should go to Cissy Kirrane who entered her Bird Boat, Robin, for the first time this year and came in a very respectable fourth. Unfortunately, the low water caught Robin as she swung into her berth and she had to wait for the waters to rise before
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Ruth Wosser and Commodore Heller spoke at the Wosser Cup Awards Presentation joining the after-race festivities. As the winner of the Spinnaker Division, Doug will have his name engraved on the lovely Wosser Cup trophy. Jake Wosser’s wife, Ruth, who is still an active Club member, was kind enough to present Doug with the trophy. The complete and official results of the Series will be announced at the Race Recognition night on November 12, but it is a near certainty that Doug and Glen will have their names on the King George V Trophy. Assisting Tim on Victory were Angie Lackey Olson (scorer), Linda Tripp (spotter), Jay Hooker (timer), Bob McDermott (flagman), and John Sanford (driver and noise maker). Setting the marks and keeping watch over the action on the racecourse on Martin was driver, Charles James who was ably assisted by prospective member Jason Dachtler. Larry Drew was the Jury Chair, but did not have to exercise his skills due to the good behavior of all the participants on the water.
Race News Angie Lackey Olson / Anne McCormack
Express 27 Nationals By David Carrell his all got started in 2010, when Angie Olson was on the Encinal Yacht Club’s docks following the season’s second-half opener. Several Express 27 owners let me know that the fleet was looking for a venue for their 2011 Nationals. Knowing that we had a new boat in the fleet, Longboard, I agreed to entertain the idea. After consultation, David Carrell and Paul & Michelle Mourani (team Longboard), decided this to be a mighty fine idea especially as team Longboard also agreed chair the regatta. The weekend of September 16-18 could not have been more perfect. All racing was in the Knox venue for easy access to and from The Club. Friday was fraught with tricky winds and a solid flood causing boats to seek relief on the right-hand side of the course. The wind fluctuated and shifted all day. It changed back and forth faster than racers could change headsails. Yet there was gold to be found as winners played the shifts and found the right current. Saturday’s long distance race saw similar serious weather fluctuations. Medium wind at the start, a building flood as boats headed towards the gate and out at Bonita there was just barely enough breeze to get around the mark. Heading to Blossom the breeze continued to build and boats saw 20 knots at the bottom
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Second Annual Corinthian Cup
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eam SFYC headed off to Annapolis Sept 24-25 for a weekend of racing and Corinthian spirit in a lovely venue for both racing and cruising. Unfortunately there was no time for cruising as the Annapolis YC kept us busy with racing and entertaining events. And let me tell you, they throw a very good party. All teams competed aboard J/22s. At the competitors’ meeting, we decided that it would be best to start races in breezes over four knots, yes, four. This was a drastic change from last year here, where it blew MUCH more than that. Our team consisted of Jody McCormack, helmsman Skip McCormack (note spousal relation) and Jim Barton on the adult team. Youth team was Jack Barton (note familial lineage), helmsman Scott Buckstaff and Corey Lynch. The Joint Committee included SFYC’s Angie Olson and Kyle Elliott, Paul Borrsuck and Tim Cusack from AYC (if this last name sounds familiar, it should as Tim is our very own Jeff Cusack’s brother, who also participated in the event) and Barbara Vosbury from SSA as the fifth member. And Rear Commodore Tad Lacey traveled east with wife Anne where all the Lacey kids congregated for the racing and to celebrate Tad’s birthday. Back to the four knots of breeze… well that was about the best we saw. It was more in the two to three knot range; which
mark. Short tacking up the City Front, racers faced a 25-knot breeze towards Blackhaller. Then it was a very fast and lively ride with wind and flood taking the fleet back to Blossom. At that point, conditions required quick thinking as kites were hoisted, doused and hoisted again on the way to Southampton. Next, racers faced the calm behind Angel Island. Drifting a bit, sailors eventually found fresh air and finished with a fun and pleasant breeze at the finish in Raccoon Straits. Although Vicki Sodaro picked the longest course available, it worked out perfectly. We had a bit of everything for this around the Bay tour. Sunday morning was a dead calm. Race set up at Knox and waited…and waited. Nada. So up went the “L” flag and off we went to Sausalito, where we waited again. Finally the building westerly seemed to be heading to Knox, so off we went again. Fortunately, an almost perfect ten to 15 knots of breeze presented itself for the conclusion of this competitive nationals event. Volunteers assisting PRO Vicki Sodaro for this three day extravaganza included Madeline Morey, Rob Roberts, Ed Thompson, Tom Roberts, Julia Yost, Jay Lawton, Roxanne Fairbairn, Jerry Eaton, Colleen Coyle, Terrence Cush, Jay Hooker, Danielle Dabbah, James Feliz, Tristan Ruhland, Oliver Wiggett, George Brewster, Alison Russell and Angie Olson. Taking home the trophies were: 1st Nick Gibbens, Shenanigans 2nd Zachary Anderson, Motorcycle Irene 3rd Brendan Busch, Get Happy makes for some challenging sailing. Two flights were completed on Saturday and two more on Sunday before the race committee lost control of the competitors as the combined youth teams engaged in some wake boarding. AYC won the event six to two, and we’re proud to report that the youth teams tied for second overall. Everyone had a fantastic time and represented our club well. Generous sponsors of the events were Wells Fargo Advisors, Wells Fargo Advantage Funds and local jewelers Liljenquist & Beckstead Jewelers along with Omega Swiss Watches. We’re looking forward to AYC coming back to the Bay.
OUR UNSUNG HEROES (Arbitration and Protest Committees) Every regatta has those volunteers that you hope you never have to meet in “the room.” They sit patiently by, every racing weekend, awaiting the call of… Red Flags or No Red Flags. They could be out racing, or hiking on Mt. Tam or involved in any number of other activities. But no, they are patiently waiting by the phone or on the SFYC deck awaiting protests. We thank them for their dedication to the rules of the sport. This year’s volunteers were: Ben Ballard III Katie Maxim Don Schumacher Larry Drew Rich Pearce Vicki Sodaro Bryan Kemnitzer Tom Roberts Ed Thomson Glenn Isaacson George Rygg
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Youth Sailing Forrest Gay, Director / youth@sfyc.org
SFYC YOUTH RACE TEAM RESULTS PERRY #1 @ CABRILLO BEACH YC (SEPTEMBER 17-18) 420s (33 boats) 17th Kennedy Placek/Lea Russell; 25th skipper/Kristopher Swanson
Alex Moody, Sammy Shea, Graham Gooding and Scott Buckstaff at the Youth Awards Dinner
NORCAL #1 @ STOCKTON (SEPTEMBER 17) Gold Fleet (19 boats) 6th Branson (William McMullen/Isabelle Sennett); 11th Branson (Will Dana/Harry Schmidt) Silver Fleet (18 boats) 17th Marin Academy (Peter Schmidt/Michael Hasson) NORCAL #2 @ STOCKTON (SEPTEMBER 18) Gold Fleet (22 boats) 4th Branson (William McMullen/Isabelle Sennett); 17th Branson (Will Dana/Harry Schmidt) CRESSY QUALIFIER @ SFYC (SEPTEMBER 24-25) Radials (35 boats) 1st Kyle Larsen (Summit); 5th Lola Bushnell (SF Waldorf); 10th Lindsey Baab (Castilleja); 13th Lawson Willard (Urban); 21st Francesca Dana (Sacred Heart); 24th Kristopher Swanson (Marin Academy); 30th Will Dana (Branson)
Guest presenter Jonny Goldsbury and James Moody winner of the Bill Black Trophy
photos by Duane Yoslov
PCISA #1 @ MONTEREY (OCTOBER 1-2) Gold Fleet (26 teams) 6th Branson; 17th Redwood Silver Fleet (27 teams) 7th Marin Academy
OPTI SOUTHEAST CHAMPS @ NAPLES, FL (OCTOBER 8-10) 243 boats 22nd Lucy Wilmot; 151st Sally Wilmot Kennedy Placek, Top 420 Skipper and guest speaker Jonny Goldsbury 10 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
A Point In Time S/C Ken Frost, SFYC Historian
Carl A. Henry, 1927 Vice Commodore and Host to Sir Thomas Lipton
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few weeks ago the Historical Committee was asked if we could provide some information about Carl A. Henry by his great-grand niece Marilyn Henry. That stimulated a search of our records and related historical references to see if we could find out any interesting information. What follows is a colorful bit of San Francisco and SFYC history, and a bit of America’s Cup lore. Mr. Henry was born May 21, 1872, in San Jose, California. When Mr. Henry was still a small boy his parents moved to San Francisco and it was in the public schools that he gained his education. Before and after school he delivered newspapers in San Francisco’s financial district. At the age of 14 he secured a position as office boy in an insurance firm with one of his customers and left school. By the time of the Panama Pacific Exposition in 1915, he had gone from the Boys’ High School to office boy and to one of the most important businessmen on the Pacific Coast. According to “San Francisco Genealogy” a 1915 Chronicle publication, he was one of the joint agents in the Pacific department of several of the world's leading fire insurance companies, and he was Vicepresident of the Owl Drug Company of San Sir Thomas Lipton Francisco, one of the foremost concerns of its kind in the United States. This publication also included biographical data on Commodore John Hanify. At that time Carl belonged to a number of social organizations, among them the Claremont Country Club, the Athenian Club of Oakland, the Olympic Club and the Bohemian Club of San Francisco, as well as the Yerba Buena Parlor of the Native Sons. He was a Mason holding membership in the Golden Gate Commandery and Islam Temple of the Shrine. He had not yet joined The San Francisco Yacht Club. In 1921, he became President of Owl Drug Company when his predecessor retired. Even so, he continued his active participation in the insurance business. At this time, Carl is credited with proposing the idea of a curved street on Lombard Street since the lots were inaccessible by autos and the property values were not as high as on neighboring streets. If a straight street were run down the block of Lombard between Hyde and Leavenworth Streets, the street would have had an impassible grade of 27%. In the 1920s the people living on this street, like people all over the City, wanted cars, but the street was too steep. Since Carl owned half of the
lots on this block and land all around the street, he convinced his neighbors to approach City Engineer Clyde Healy who came up with the street design. When the two-way brick paved street was constructed in 1922 the curved switchbacks were installed, and the grade was reduced to 16%. Carl created a lily pond and rose gardens and planned to give his land to the City as a park. When the work was completed people could drive up and down, and the property values rose. The first reference we find in Club records to Carl is in 1924. In 1925 he was a member of the Motor Boat Committee and in 1926 he was elected to the Board of Directors. In 1927 he was elected Vice Commodore. This follows The Club’s purchase of the Belvedere Cove property and he and Commodore John C. Piver were responsible for healing the wounds of the bitter debate over where The Club should relocate. This is the same year he hosted a reception for Sir Thomas Lipton aboard the beautiful motor yacht Hopestill. (See the reproduction of the newspaper photos sent to us by Marilyn Henry). Sir Thomas was at this time an honorary
Hopestill
Sir Thomas Lipton Lipton salutes USS Tennessee and Commodore Piver
member of The Club and, based on the pictures, all the important yachtsmen in The Club must have been aboard. The tour included a pass close aboard the battleship USS Tennessee where they dipped their colors in his honor and stopped at the Clubhouse in Sausalito and Belvedere Cove at our temporary quarters in the Pacific Motor Boat Club. In 1928 he was appointed by Commodore Robert H. Goodale to the San Francisco site committee. At that time there was still interest in establishing a San Francisco station for The Club. Some efforts were made to develop a site at Aquatic Park, but they apparently went nowhere. It certainly would have been convenient for the Henrys living up the hill on Lombard Street! From 1928 through 1933, the beautiful motor yacht Hopestill (pictured here as she appeared in the 1928 SFYC Annual Directory) was registered to Carl. In 1934 he disappears from our records, but an undated citation by Susan Saperstein in her short history of Lombard Street indicates Carl’s widow had to sell their Lombard Street property to pay off debts.
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Auxiliary News Lisa Harris, SFYC Auxiliary President, 2011
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ike many of us around the Bay Area, the lack of anything remotely resembling summer has left me feeling cheated, maybe downright resentful, knowing full well that we have slid right into fall. Oh well…poof…done. So, as the leaves change and the days grow shorter, the Auxiliary is jumping in, full speed ahead, to bring about our signature events. Yes, I italicized all three of those intentionally. On the 7th of October the Auxiliary feted its Past Presidents with an Afternoon Tea in the Commodore’s Room. It was a nice turnout with eleven Past Presidents in attendance, if I include myself. Thank you P/Ps, Pat Duggan (1969), Mary Ann Christensen (1972), Christina Decker (1980 & ‘81), Ilene Medovich (1983), Carol Jesmore (1988), Janice Still (1990 & ‘91), Sally Secor (1992), Joan Harter (1994), Jane Watts (2004), and Mimi Cornelius (2006 & ‘07) for coming. You made it festive and fun ladies. Most of you wore fabulous hats or fascinators and P/P Mimi Cornelius actually made her showstopper from scratch! I think our beautiful tea would rival any proper tea “across the pond”. I want to commend Ricardo and Juan M. for making it so by paying such close attention to us and serving it all with great style. I am also forever grateful to our Catering Manager, Natalie Watson, whose calm and grace under fire continues to seamlessly pull us all together. November 17th brings the Annual Meeting, “A Lady Remembers”, welcoming the America’s Cup, 2013. Our keynote speaker is Auxiliary Board member, Tina Kleinjan Setzer and the event is Co-Chaired by Ginny DeMaria, Sue Milliron and Vicki Silverman. The day will feature quite a few components: 1) Shopping, shopping, shopping; 2) Tina’s fascinating talk on the America’s Cup and how she saved rotting America’s Cup boats from the wrecking ball in an abandoned lot in New Zealand; 3) Sue Hoeschler, as last year’s recipient, will surprise a distinctive and deserving female sailor when presenting this year’s top secret Marianne Mason / Yachtswoman of the Year Award; 4) P/P Christina Decker will present a Special Services Award to an unassuming and worthy recipient; and 5) The vote for next year’s Board of Officers and Directors. Did I mention there would be a lot of holiday shopping available from the various and varied vendors? The Co-Chairs have quietly arranged for each table to sport and sell a Limited Edition, glass ice bucket, with our burgee and America’s Cup 2013 emblazoned on them. Arrive at 10:30 to take advantage of all we are offering because it will be an action-packed, fun-filled day. The Children’s Holiday Party on December 11th will be a 12 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
lot of fun this year with new and different activities planned under the expert guidance of Ginna Milan and Jane Young. Light the Night has been resurrected as the “Get Lit” party with a nod and a wink to the past. Mimi Blakelsee, Molly Brilliant and Marily Rimmer don’t mean for the name to personally encourage members to over imbibe though; they just want to really get out the word to illuminate your boats with holiday lights. Please help them by making this year’s harbor sparkle! Judging will take place at the party on December 14th. The holiday gala, “A Rudolph Red Evening”, will feature the fabulous Fundamentals Orchestra. This will be an evening to remember and is being expertly organized by the talented trio of Ginny DeMaria, Sue Milliron and Vicki Silverman. Mark your calendars for Friday, December 16th for dinner and dancing from 6:00 p.m. till midnight! See you around The Club! Warmly, Lisa Harris
Auxiliary Notes – A History to Remember
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hirty-two years ago my dear friend, Gwen Price, encouraged me to join the SFYC Auxiliary Board. I did. Being new to The Club, this was the perfect opportunity to meet the creative, hardworking and dedicated women who organized and Janice Still, supported The Club’s SFYC Auxiliary President activities. And what 1990 and 1991 GREAT activities and parties they produced! (And still do.) Years later I had the opportunity to go back on the Auxiliary Board, serving as President my last two years. Again, I had the privilege of working with another terrific group of women. What is really wonderful is the many lifelong friends and memories the Auxiliary and SFYC have provided my husband, Ed and me. We are so fortunate!
SFYC Auxiliary Past Presidents Enjoyed Traditional High Tea In High Style
SFYC Past Presidents: L-R: Front Row: Jane Watts, Mary Ann Christensen, Pat Duggan, President Lisa Harris. Back Row: Sally Secor, Carol Jesmore, Janice Still, Mimi Cornelius, Joan Harter, Christina Decker, Ilene Medovich
Mimi Cornelius and Joan Harter
photos by Vicki Silverman
Pat Duggan and Mary Ann Christense Emily Heller, Lisa Harris and Jane Watts
Sally Secor, Christina Decker and Ilene Medovich
Carol Jesmore and Janice Still NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 13
Auxiliary Race NewsNews Lisa Harris, SFYC Auxiliary President, 2011
Calling All Volunteers! The SFYC Auxiliary will be decorating The SFYC Clubhouse for the Christmas Holidays
The San Francisco Yacht Club
GET LIT
Wednesday, December 14 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Join in the fun of this traditional Auxiliary activity November 28 and 29 9 a.m. Dress Casually! Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Lori Fromm at 415-461-8054
Join us as we celebrate the Lighting of the Harbor! Prizes awarded for the best decorated boats! First prize is one month free berth rent Holiday Sweets and Appetizers (No-Host Bar)
1st Annual
Auxiliary Family Holiday Brunch With Santa Sunday December 11 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Adults $40 Children $20 (Subject to service and tax)
RSVP SFYC Front Office 415-435-9133
14 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
Scholarship Race News Program
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hanks to the generous support of our membership, the Club’s scholarship program provides grants to eligible employees and their dependent children, helping them realize the benefits of a higher education. 10,000 Degrees (formerly the Marin Education Fund) with its outreach, counseling, and administration remains an indispensible partner in our efforts. Since the program’s inception, it has assisted eight applicants through the process without cost to The Club, allowing 100% of all donations to be earmarked for grants. Two of this year’s grant recipients are Tyler Jones and Pia Mangahas. Tyler, the son of SFYC Catering Sales Manager, Natalie Watson, is finishing up his degree in Resort and Lodging Management, while interning at Hyatt, Incline Village. He writes: “Growing up, I sailed Lasers on the Lagoon and later became a sailing instructor at SFYC. I was a camp counselor on Angel Island, became an Eagle Scout with Troop 101 in San Rafael, worked at Waypoint Pizza, and was a manager at the Tiburon Playhouse. I’ve always had a job and I’m currently employed at the front desk of the Hyatt, Incline Village. In my life, I’ve moved a lot and made it a point to “throw myself in,” taking advantage of opportunities wherever I am. At Chico State, the scholarship grant offered through The Club afforded me a head start on my career. I’ve just been recommended for a position as a Corporate Sales Manager with Hyatt and am waiting to hear where I will be moving next. I appreciate my beginnings in Marin and at The San Francisco Yacht Club and I look forward to one day setting sail for Tiburon again.” Natalie adds: “Tyler and I want to thank the members of The San Francisco Yacht Club for their generous support.”
Pia Mangahas is from the Philippines and a member of our galley staff. In her native country she was a graduate of the school for Hotel and Restaurant Management, with a focus on baking. Before immigrating, she had her own bakery, supplying schools in the Metro Manila area and specializing in artisan ciabbata, focaccia, and pizza. She writes: “I would like to thank all the members of The San Francisco Yacht Club for making it possible for me to pursue my studies and improve my craft. After coming to America two years ago and then working with Chef Reny, I saw that I have so much to learn. When I asked if it would be possible to go to school and specialize in patisserie and baking, I was encouraged to go for it, and the rest is history. I graduate in November and, together with two classmates, will be doing a six week internship here at our very own SFYC. Thank you and God Bless!” Those members wishing to support the Club’s scholarship program may do so by making a tax deductible donation to: 10,000 Degrees 781 Lincoln Avenue, Suite 140 San Rafael, CA 94901 To insure the funds are properly earmarked, it’s important that you specify on your check that the funds are for use by The San Francisco Yacht Club program. Donation cards are also available at the Front Desk, allowing payment by credit card as well as by check. Please be sure to indicate how you wish your donation to be recognized in the recap that will be published in the February Bulletin. On the subject of recognition, we want to use this opportunity to recognize two donations that were overlooked earlier this year, those of S/C Don and Jane Harvey, and S/C Ken and Jane Frost. We wish to thank them and all others who have supported this program. Finally, we want to thank S/C Mitch Wilk and S/C Bill Smith for their work on the Scholarship Committee. Both will be leaving the committee this year, but their contributions in helping to get our program established were most helpful. Any member wishing additional information is encouraged to contact a member of the committee. Thank you for your support. The Scholarship Committee Alison Elliott, S/C Bob Kahn, Tad Lacey, and S/C Carl Lewis
NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 15
Cruising News Dick Stark
International Cruise
photo by Bill Stark
O
ur International Cruise began in Athens, Greece and was led by RoyAnne Florence. We gathered in Athens for several days of exploring, visiting and dining. On September 17, nineteen cruisers embarked on Wind Star, a 440-foot sailing cruise ship. From Athens we visited the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes. Then we traveled into Turkish waters, cruising along the coast and visiting Bodrum and Kusadasi before arriving in Istanbul on September 24. Some cruisers departed for other destinations while others spent several days in Istanbul and Cappadocia. In Istanbul we explored in and around the old section, took a cruise on the Bosphorus Straits and visited the Asian side, and explored the Grand Bazaar on the European side. In Cappadocia we stayed in the hotel built in the caves, took a hot-air balloon ride, and had lunch at a Turkish home. On October 1, nine cruisers boarded a 30-meter gulet (a two-masted sailing vessel) named Tanem H in the Turkish port of Gocek. Time on Tanem H was spent cruising nearby islands and bays to explore ancient sites and historical towns. We hiked to visit a nomad family at the top of one island and visited Cleopatra’s Bath, an ancient ruined bath house. We enjoyed three extensive Turkish meals per day as well as swimming and lounging around the gulet. And, of course, much time was spent shopping for the elusive bargains in local markets and shops. All and all it was a very successful cruise due to the leadership of RoyAnne Florence. She volunteered to lead this cruise about two years ago and the result was outstanding – great sights, wonderful facilities and boats, and an excellent itinerary. But, most importantly, we had a chance to visit with many club members and make new friends. Thank you, RoyAnne!
P/P Ann Welch flashed a smile of joy as she climbed along the bowspirit of the gulet Tanem H
SFYC’s International Cruise leader RoyAnne Florence proudly gifted the burgee to the captain during the voyage.
photo by Tony Hooker
16 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
Life aboard a gulet brought many smiles to her SFYC passengers.
photos by Tony Hooker
NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 17
Cruising News
2011 aCruise Year Wrap Up
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By Harold Kleiderman
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he annual Tinsley Quad Cruise was a great success again this year. Many thanks to Scott and Nancy Harris and Rich and Shawn Widemen for organizing this year’s event. In other cruising news, we are pleased to announce that we (Lisa Klairmont and Harold Kleiderman) will be co-chairing the Cruising Committee next year. Bill Stark has been chair for the past five years and has done a tremendous job. Bill revitalized the cruising program at SFYC and spurred us all on to participate in the many successful and fun cruises over the past few years. Bill will continue on as a member of the Cruising Committee and we
will rely on his good advice and experience as we work to provide an active cruising program and expand member participation. Please join us in giving Bill a big THANK YOU from all of us at The SFYC. In other cruising news, the Cruising Committee is actively working on the 2012 cruising calendar. We are planning up to ten Club cruises next year. Included will be the favorites, South Beach/Giants, Angel Island, Petaluma, Delta Yacht Club and the Tinsley Quad Cruise, as well as some new venues. Look for future articles in the Bulletin and Bow Wave for upcoming cruises.
Tinsley Quad Cruise By Scott Harris n early October over 150 cruisers from The SFYC, Corinthian, Tiburon and Marin Yacht Clubs sandwiched three beautifully sunny days in between unseasonably early rains for the 10th Annual “Quad Cruise” to Tinsley Island. Combined with a “warm-up” cruise to the Delta Yacht Club, everyone had a great time. For several days, we cruising chefs generated enticing aromas from the commercial-quality kitchens, and concurrent with Martini, Bloody Mary and Margarita Parties, and “The Greatest DJ in the Delta”, shared memorable camaraderie amidst this year’s Halloween theme, as we renewed old friendships and made new ones. Please plan to join us, via water or blacktop, next year.
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Scott and Nancy Harris’s new power boat 18 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
Crossing Wakes Steve Mason & Ginger Souders-Mason
on a and Alice Shinn shipped Ariel home to Newport from Southampton aboard the M/V Slotergracht in September. The days of big seas and bigger sails are now behind them as Ariel is for sale, to be replaced, as happens with almost all of us, by a powerboat. Jon says it will be a smallish powerboat that has a transom door and can be kept stern to the dock. Myron and Marina Eisenzimmer had an uneventful trip to San Diego aboard Mykonos in preparation for the Ba Ha Ha. They reported following seas all the way south with the highest winds of 42 knots by the Big Sur coast for about five hours, then winds dropped to about 25-30 knots. Rounding Pt. Conception they had no winds over 15 knots and nothing over 20 knots going down the Santa Barbara channel. Steve and Ginger Mason, aboard Sea Jay, were going the other direction but without the same good fortune. (Some in The Club thought this long-delayed journey would never take place after many proposed departure dates were unmet.) Sea Jay left on September 18. Recalling Suzie Knecht’s story, Ginger was seasick for the first 24 hours of their journey. The Masons first stopped in Noyo for fuel, only to discover there is no longer a fuel dock in the harbor. After a short rest, Sea Jay were kicked off the abandoned fuel dock when an urchin harvester arrived to unload. Returning to smooth seas and light winds, Sea Jay progressed toward Cape Mendocino. Close to Shelter Cove the wind picked up and by dark the wind was up to 28kn. As the night progressed, the wind peaked at 39 knots just before they rounded the cape. The wind and waves were so big Steve and Ginger feared the windows in their cockpit would blow in. But, luckily, only spray blew through the zippers. The trip from Mendocino to Brookings was calmer. During the night passage the running lights breaker kept tripping. After several hours of testing and fussing, Steve discovered the wires up inside the pulpit had chafed and were shorting out. It took a day to completely rewire the bow light, a job that included removing and rebedding the pulpit.
J
The Masons waited an extra day in Brookings to let the high seas subside before heading for Cape Blanco and did so without being inspected by the Coast Guard. (Was that a first?) That night and the next day they saw nothing but fog, never the cape or any of the markers. Huge kelp rafts were scattered everywhere, making it necessary to thread the needle to get through even at depths of over 200 ft. The Newport stop for refueling lasted one hour. In that time the wind went from 8 to 18 knots and the seas doubled. The wind was from the south so Steve double reefed the main and set the jib on the pole about 1/3 unrolled with both an after guy and fore guy. Sea Jay sailed and motor sailed for 48 hours. It was really bumpy, Sea Jay rests quietly with breaking seas from three Victoria Harbor directions plus 6-8 foot wind waves. It was bad enough for Steve to get sick. Ginger did a yeoman’s job of keeping them going until he recovered. The wind and seas calmed down for the last afternoon at sea and Sea Jay rounded Cape Flattery Sunday night. The weather report was predicting gale winds so Steve and Ginger headed directly for Victoria. Five miles from the Victoria harbor entrance the storm hit. In one minute the wind went from 10kn NW to 35kn SW and included big seas and rain. Fortunately one of the last cruise ships for the season was in, so Steve and Ginger ducked behind it to drop the sails. Though unpleasant at times such trips are like childbirth, once in a safe and pleasant harbor the discomfort is forgotten. This was the case when Sea Jay was tied up in front of the Empress Hotel for a couple of days. On October 8 Sea Jay arrived at her winter moorage in Sointula, Malcolm Island, ready for next spring’s journey to Alaska.
Landfall on Mauritius Island for Misty By Bob Van Blaricom n late September, SFYC member Connor Leech safely reached the South Indian Ocean island of Mauritius aboard Bob Van Blaricom’s former boat, the little 32' sloop Misty, with Misty’s new owner, Peter Forrest. The first 2000 mile leg of the passage, from Darwin, Australia to Cocos-Keeling Islands, took 17 days and was passed in reasonably good weather, and “boisterous” trade winds, as Connor described them. In the next 2600 mile leg to Mauritius the winds apparent were a lot stronger with very rough seas. Five days from landfall the water paddle of the Monitor wind vane gear was lost, but the small electric tiller pilot was able to handle the steering chores until arrival. Peter and Connor hope to have a new metal paddle fabricated on the island. No other problems were reported. Connor described Cocos-Keeling Island as a delightful little paradise. He also said he was enjoying the life at sea. Apparently Mauritius, with 1.8 million inhabitants, is a surprisingly busy, bustling place. Misty’s next stop is Durban, South Africa 1,600 miles to the west. Misty found tropical paradise on Cocos Keeling
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NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 19
Champagne Dinner FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18
Thanksgiving Dinner Thursday, November 24 27th 2-8 p.m. 12 noon – 6:00 p.m. Appetizer: Appetizer BuffetSampler includes: Escargots Chilled Seafood – Seasonal Crudités in shells Oysters, Clams,Vegetable Shrimp, Crab Claws, and Chef ’s Smoked Thanksgiving Bourguignonne Salmon Pates .95 Jumbo Mexican Prawns on Ice $10.00 $15 Miyagi Oysters on the Half Shell Smoked Entrée: Alaskan Salmon Traditional Waldorf Soup or Salad Salad Vine Ripened Tomato and Cucumber Salad Dinner Mixed Field Green Saladincludes with Assorted Dressings Chef ’s Potatoes and Seasonal Vegetables & Choice of Dessert Entrees choice of: trimmings – $24.00 Roasted Organic Turkey with all the Roasted Organic Turkey with all the Trimmings.00 Poached Filet of Salmon with citrus butter – $28 Cedar Plank Alaskan Halibut
Oysters on the Half Shell (6) $12.00
COVE HOUSE Come spend an evening with one of America’s oldest and favorite sparkling wine houses:
RECEPTION 6:00 P.M.
Schramsberg Vineyards
DINNER: 6:30 P.M.
These wines have been served at many White House dinners. Now is your chance to delight in experiencing a Gourmet 4 course dinner with sparkling wines!
RESERVATIONS REQUIRED PLEASE CONTACT THE FRONT OFFICE 435-9133 EXT.10
SFYC Members Only Limited to 50 Seats
Saturday
Night
November 12, 19, 26
of Beef Au&Jus Creekstone AngusAngus PrimePrime Rib ofRib Beef Au jus horseradish – $32.00 Braised Veal “OssoBucco” – $26.00 Homemade Desserts include: Homemade Pumpkin Pie and Dessert: Homemade Apple Pie a la mode Pumpkin Pie Mill Valley Gelato Pumpkin ice cream Apple Pie with Cheddar Cheese or a la mode
Reservations Required
RSVP to the Front Office 435-9133 ext. 10
The San Francisco Yacht Club’s
Pasta Nights November 6 and December 4 Enjoy fresh pasta dishes cooked to order in the Member’s Dining Room BUILD YOUR OWN PASTA BAR INCLUDES CHOICES OF: Steak, Chicken, Shrimp, Scallops and Calamari Bell Peppers, Mushrooms, Olives, Broccoli, Sundried Tomatoes, Winter Squash and Seasonal Vegetables
Cedar Plank Salmon Dinner for Two
YOUR CHOICE OF PENNE PASTA OR FETTUCCINI WITH Alfredo Sauce, Pesto Sauce or Marinara Sauce Delicious Garlic Bread and Full Salad Bar with Chef Reny’s famous Assorted Salads
served with tableside Caesar Salad $48.95 for two
ALL YOU CAN EAT $18.95 Adults $10.95 Kids 10 and under
All prices subject to Club service charge and Marin sales tax.
All prices subject to Club service charge and Marin sales tax.
20 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
Save the Dates for Holiday Celebrations
The San Francisco Yacht Club Auxiliary Holiday Gala
Auxiliary Holiday Decorating November 28 & 29
“A Rudolph Red Evening”
Auxiliary Family Holiday with Santa December 11 Auxiliary Light the Night December 14 Auxiliary Holiday Gala December 16 The Club’s Casual New Year’s Dinner December 31
Enhance your dining experience every
Thursday All Day at The San Francisco Yacht Club with
NO CORKAGE option
Presents
Friday, December 16, 2011 6:00 p.m. – Midnight Dinner 7:00 p.m. $80 ++ Featuring the Fabulous Fundamentals Orchestra Reservations Front Office 435-9133, ext. 10 Members and their guests Festive Attire Co-Chairs: Ginny DeMaria, Sue Milliron & Vicki Silverman
Get in the spirit… Book a holiday party now while dates are available… Give Natalie a jingle in the Catering Office and enjoy the magic of the season… Cheers! catering@sfyc.org or 435-9133 ext. 25
NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 21
From the General Manager Steve DePetro, General Manager / Steve@sfyc.org
I
would like to introduce myself. I am Steve DePetro, The Club’s new General Manager. As I write my first column for The Bulletin it is Sunday, October 9th with Fleet Week happening and the Blue Angels ready to perform later in the day. It is very exciting to have the chance to join the staff of The San Francisco Yacht Club and my thanks go to the Flag Officers, Commodore Bob Heller, Vice Commodore Bob Griswold and Rear Commodore Tad Lacey and club member Lou Burnett for making it happen. My club career actually began in the Bay Area many years ago and with the chance to come back here to be a part of such a special club is a great personal and professional opportunity. Since arriving in early October, there are three things that have impressed me: the warm and friendly welcome and spirit of the membership and the staff, the incredibly beautiful setting and facilities of The Club, and the high level and variety of The Club activities going on! These are three key components of a great club and The San Francisco Yacht Club has them in spades. My club
career has included working for both member owned and driven private clubs as well as developer owned private clubs and the difference is dramatic. While developer clubs offer stunning facilities, amenities and settings there is not the history, tradition and member passion seen in a “truly private” club. It is unrealistic to expect such a club to develop the culture and tradition in a short time…that takes generations and generations to happen. In my brief time at SFYC I have met “three generations” of family members here. When you couple that with such an incredible setting, the result is something very special. Simply stated, you have it all! My initial focus as the new General Manager will be getting to know the membership and the staff while learning and understanding The Club’s history, culture and pulse. Everyone has been so welcoming it has almost been overwhelming. I hope to get to know you and remember your names in the weeks and months ahead. I look forward to seeing you at The Club.
Steve
The Blue Angels provided “volumnes” of excitement along the San Francisco waterfront.
22 • NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org
Food and Beverage Reny Madrid, Executive Chef / renymad@sbcglobal.net Chef’s From The Hood Philosophy: “Success is not measured by what a man accomplishes, but by the opposition he has encountered, and the courage with which he has maintained the struggle against overwhelming odds.” -Charles Lindbergh
Kitchen Confidential: Ask me how it felt to have the County Health Inspector show up on the Friday before Leukemia Cup and take 2-1/2 hours of my day going through the galley and bar on an unannounced inspection….! I want to thank all my staff for their hard work in making the Leukemia Cup go so well. They really did a great job. Last month, I set up a day for all SFYC staff to come together and help each other prepare for the “Serve Safe Certification” test. The instructor came in for a two hour class and afterward the group stayed on to quiz each other. It was a great bonding experience for everyone. They all passed and are now certified. Upcoming Dining Events: Make your reservations for Thanksgiving. I have a new concept for this year’s dinner service. Complete dinners will be from $24 to $32 and come with soup or salad, choice of entree and dessert. Last year we charged $42.95 and had low attendance, so I hope this new pricing will bring more members in to enjoy the day. Happy Thanksgiving! “The Saturday Special for Two” in November will be Cedar Plank Salmon for $48.95++. The dinner will come with tableside Caesar Salad. Please feel free to email me with any ideas or suggestions: renymad@sbcglobal.net.
Chef Reny and his Galley Crew created a beautiful High Tea for the Auxiliary Past Presidents’ Tea
At the recent SFYC Yappy Hour Party, the guests of honor and their “masters” had a wonderful time, but had very hard time posing for a photo…..
Eat well. Feel Good. Regards, Reny Vince serving at Yappy Hour NOVEMBER 2011 THE BULLETIN • www.sfyc.org • 23
Sunday
November 2011
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
3:30-9 p.m. 2 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
3 No Corkage Fee All Day
8
3:30-9 p.m. 9 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
10 No Corkage Fee All Day
15
3:30-9 p.m. 16 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
Club Closed Appleton 6 Regatta: Richardson: Youth Pasta Night
Club Closed
(no a-la-carte menu)
13
Club Closed
20
7
14
27 Auxiliary
Holiday Decorating
Sunday
4
28 Auxiliary
29
Holiday Decorating
Club Closed
18
Tuesday
5
12
Club Closed
Club Closed
Wednesday
6
3:30-9 p.m. 7 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
Christmas Day Club Closed
13
m
Club Closed
Club Closed
Breakfast: Sat 0830-1130; Sun 0830-1400
•
14
20
Auxiliary Get Lit 3:30-9 p.m. 21 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
27
3:30-9 p.m. 28 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
Club Closed
26 Club Closed
Auxiliary 17 18 Annual Mtg. Schramsberg Luncheon Champagne Dinner: Cove House No Corkage Fee
25
With Dinner
Saturday
Appleton 5 Regatta: Richardson: Youth Commodores’ Ball
Cedar Plank 12 Salmon for Two $48.95++ Race Recognition Night
19
Cedar Plank Salmon for Two $48.95++
Cedar Plank 26 Salmon for Two $48.95++
B e n i c i a Ya c h t C l u b C r u i s e I n
December 2011
19
25
4
11
3:30-9 p.m. 23 24 Thanksgiving Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
3:30-9 p.m. 30 Beef Sliders & Mini Tacos
(no a-la-carte menu)
Auxiliary 11 Family Holiday with Santa
Speaker Series
Friday
Club Closed
Club Closed
Club Closed
22 Club Closed
Monday
Pasta Night
Club Closed
21 Club Closed
Benicia Cruise In
Club Closed
Thursday
Thursday
1 No Corkage Fee All Day
Friday
2
8 No Corkage Fee All Day
9
15 No Corkage Fee All Day
16
22 No Corkage Fee All Day
Auxiliary Holiday Gala Dinner Dance
29 Capricorn No Corkage Fee Lunch All Day
Lunch: Thur-Sun 1130-1500
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23
30
Saturday
Members’ 3 Annual Meeting All Day
10
Chateaubriand Dinner for Two $48.95++
17
Chateaubriand Dinner for Two $48.95++
24
Christmas Eve: Club Open for Lunch Club Closes: 3 p.m.
31
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Dinner: Wed-Sun 1730-2100 (Fri 2200)