Smooth Sailing Newsletter ~ February 2020 Issue

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SPYC 11 0n the Water 11 News

Membership Highlights

FOUNDED 1909

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Upcoming Events

MEMBERSHIP IS BY INVITATION ONLY

Clubs Within the Club

CHAPTER FOUR 2

COMMODORE’S LOG

I

hope your year has gotten off to a great start! On that note, I would like to share a recent personal experience I had at the Club. While my daughter and her family were visiting we decided to try out the Club’s new Deck Boat. We had a great time! We picked up the boat at the main docks at about 9:00 am. Everything we needed, including kids PFDs for my granddaughters, were ready to go. After a thorough safety and equipment check we were off. We took a nice leisurely ride under the Skyway and headed for the Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse.

The ride was smooth and dry and the Bimini provided great shade. The Dock Master met us at the floating dock and helped us get tied up. It was very easy. The floating dock made it exceptionally easy for the grandkids to get in and out of the boat. After a great lunch, and some sun around the pool, we decided to head back to the main docks downtown. We arranged to have our car waiting at Pass-a-Grille so that if the kids were tired they could come back by car.

They were not having any of that…they wanted to ride back in the boat! We were back by 4:00 pm. and had a fantastic day. If you haven’t tried out the Deck Boat, I highly recommend it!

of our Club. If you see a new member around the Club please take a moment to introduce yourself. Stay tuned for photos and details from this event in our March issue.

This year is the 51st Anniversary of the Regata del Sol al Sol race to Mexico. It takes place from April 3rd - May 1st.

Registration is still open. For complete details visit www.spyc. org/regattas or www.regatadelsolalsol.org.

Other upcoming regattas include: • Valentine’s Regatta - Feb. 8th & 9th • The St. Petersburg NOOD - Feb. 14th - 16th • The Thistles Midwinters East Championship - March 1st - 6th.

(Please find the complete Regatta schedule in this issue.)

We have already hosted a few great events at the Club so far this year, including the Family Feud Game Night & SPYC KIDS! Video Game Bus Party. Keep up to date with your Smooth Sailing and weekly E-news as many more exciting events are happening soon. You won’t want to miss out on the Complimentary Corned Beef & Cabbage Lunch at both the Downtown & Pass-a-Grille Clubhouses, and the ever popular Grand Prix Garage Party coming in March.

Happy Valentines Day!

A big THANK YOU to everyone who attended this year’s Annual VIP Proposer & New Member event. We had a large crowd and a good time. Please remember to think about new members all year long. Finding new members is a vital part to the success

Commodore Michael Blacker

The Mission of St. Petersburg Yacht Club is to encourage and support yachting, and provide a comfortable social environment for our members and guests, while preserving and enhancing the Club’s traditions and prestige.

APRIL 20192020 FEBRUARY | SMOOTH | SMOOTH SAILING SAILING

TABLE OF CONTENTS Marc Reydams......................................................................................................823-1219 General Manager | gm@spyc.org 3

Colleen Finney, CHAE........................................................................................823-1061 Chief Financial Officer | controller@spyc.org Susan Robertson.................................................................................................892-6888 Director of Membership/Marketing | Membership@spyc.org

MEMBERSHIP - Pg. 4

Joseph Van Bemmel..........................................................................................892-6889 Executive Chef | executivechef@spyc.org Shannon Nylander, CPCE ,WSET2...............................................................892-6882 Director of Catering | catering@spyc.org Brooke Potter........................................................................................................892-6887 Catering Assistant | cateringinfo@spyc.org

ON THE WATER - Pg. 5

Pierre Dumaine...................................................................................................892-6880 Director of Food & Beverage | pierre@spyc.org Mary Lou Privitera.............................................................................................822-3873 Director of Restaurants ext. 227 | Director.restaurants@spyc.org Kerrie Paquette ..................................................................................................360-1646 Manager at The Beach Club at PAG | Kerrie@spyc.org

EVENT CALENDAR - Pg. 8

Shawn Macking...................................................................................................822-3113 Waterfront Director | Waterfront-director@spyc.org Chase Hudspeth & John Toberman..............................................................822-3227 dockmaster@spyc.org Todd Fedyszyn.....................................................................................................896-8101 Youth Sailing Director | youthsailingdirector@spyc.org

SPYC EVENTS - Pg. 10

Leah Wieter ...........................................................................................................892-6893 Member Services/Marketing Coordinator | member.services@spyc.org Steve Partridge....................................................................................................892-6892 Facilities Manager | facilitiesmgr@spyc.org Maritza Villanueva.............................................................................................892-6894 Housekeeping/Valet/Security Manager | housekeeping@spyc.org

AROUND THE CLUB - Pg. 15

Suzanne Gendrot................................................................................................822-3873 Executive Pastry Chef ext. 223 suzanne-g@spyc.org

Downtown Clubhouse: 822-3873 Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse: 360-1646 Snell Isle Marina: 895-8142 Downtown Marina: 822-3227 Sailing Center: 822-3113 Business Office: 892-6883 or 892-6884 www.SPYC.org

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB - Pg. 17

HOURS of OPERATION

www.facebook.com/SaintPetersburgYachtClub www.twitter.com/SPYC_FL #stpetersburgyachtclub on Instagram

Downtown (11 Central Ave., St. Petersburg 33701):

Tiki Hut:

Clubhouse Open (Tues. – Sunday): 7:00 am (CLOSED Monday)

Thursday & Friday: 5:00 pm - (Closing varies based upon weather & business levels) Saturday: 1:00 pm - 11:30 pm • Sunday: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Commodore Dining Room: Available for private party bookings with advance reservations. (Contact Catering for details) Friday & Saturday: LIVE Piano Bar 7:30 pm-11:30 pm

Sailing Center (250 2nd Ave. SE, St. Petersburg 33701):

Grille 1909:

Snell Isle Marina (1305 Snell Isle Blvd. St. Petersburg 33704):

(Reservations strongly recommended) Lunch: Tuesday-Friday, 11:30 am - 2:00 pm • Dinner: Tuesday - Sunday, 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm • Sunday Brunch: 10:30 am - 1:30 pm

CLOSED Mondays & Tuesdays Wednesday - Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm • Saturday & Sunday 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

Heritage Lounge:

Beach Club (2301 Pass-a-Grille Way, St. Pete Beach 33706):

Lunch: Tuesday - Sunday, 11:30 am - 2:00 pm • Dinner: Tuesday Sunday 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm (Limited Late Night Menu available after 9:30 pm)

CLOSED Tuesdays & Wednesdays Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am-9:30 pm (Menu available until 9:00 pm) Sunday: Noon-8:00 pm | Sunday Brunch 10:30 am-1:30 pm (Last Sunday of every month)

Bridge Room: Breakfast Buffet: Tuesday - Friday, 7:00 am - 9:00 am & Saturday – 7:30 am – 10:00 am

Tuesday - Sunday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (www.sailstpete.org)

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

MEMBERSHIP HIGHLIGHT 4

PARKING DECALS MEMBERSHIP CHALLENGE & FAQ Parking Decals Have you picked up your 2019-2020 parking decals, yet? If the one on your rearview mirror isn’t round and purple, you don’t have the correct one. Stop by the Front Desk during the month of February and pick up your decal in order to use the parking garage for member events. After March 1st, decals will only be available Tuesday - Friday 9:30 am to 4:30 pm in the Executive Offices.

Membership Referral Program Our member referral program is an on-going system where food and beverage certificates are given to members who propose new prospects for the Club. Amounts vary depending on the level of the referral, but what a great way to be rewarded for recommending a valuable friend or neighbor for membership.

During 2018-2019, ninety-nine (99) members referred one hundred and ninety-five (195) members to YOUR Club! Two of those members who won the Membership Challenge for 2018-2019 were rewarded by receiving food and beverage certificates PLUS a reduction in dues for their efforts.

People are twice as likely to pay attention to referrals from a friend who is a Club member and referrals give us some of the best new members we can get with high brand loyalty.

The Membership Challenge for 2019-2020 is officially ON, and the member who brings in the most initiation fee revenue during this fiscal year will receive a full year’s dues credit for the upcoming year! The member who brings in the highest number of members will receive a 50% dues credit for the upcoming year.

Did You Know?

• The Initiation Fee at the Yacht Club is $6,500 if you are over 45 years old and there is a sliding scale for those under 45.

• You can bring in your immediate family members (father, mother, son, daughter) for a 50% reduction in the Initiation Fee for their category. Inquire about the “Legacy Program”.

• Your Club doesn’t have monthly minimums. This is the most asked question in the Membership Department!

• There is still parking available at PAG – right next to our beautiful resort-style pool!

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Welcome New Members Active: Mr. Jason Nash/Mrs. Carrie Simon Mr. & Mrs. Michael Schmertzler Mr. & Mrs. Timothy Evans Ms. Susan Young/Mr. William Wilson Active Boat Owner: Mr. Charles “Chip”Webster/Dr. Debra Doud Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Bell Ms. Brenda Seaman/Mr. Cliff Hickey Intermediate: Ms. Laurel Marois Mr. Ryan Cronauer Mr. Ryan Laky Ms. Rachael Laky Ms. Sylvia Hopkins Mr. Liam McCarthy Non Resident: Mr. & Mrs. Robert Coupal Pass-a-Grille Club ONLY: Mr. Gene Kelley/Ms. Katherine Marien

Group: Mr. & Mrs. Brady Diggs Miss Mary Casey Reinstante: Mr. & Mrs. Charles Kard Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Mansir Proposers: Ms. Victoria Sessler Mr. Chris Fraser Mr. Richard Fleming Mr. Fred Arnold Mrs. Frances Doyle Mr. Charles Evans Ms. Veronica Hickey Mr. Norman Ogan Mr. Michael Laky Mr. Roger Dow Mr. Bryce Seaman Ms. Cresel Zipse Mr. Robert Hopkins, Jr. Mr. William McCarthy Mr. Gerard Douglas

The Club relies on our members’ proposals and we thank you for your support!

CLUB MEMBERSHIP Wayne Andrews Membership Chairman Susan Robertson Director of Membership/Marketing If you would like information sent to a friend, relative or co-worker, please contact the Director of Membership at 727-892-6888 or email membership@spyc.org.

ON THE WATER

JUNIOR SAILING

5

by Todd Fedyszyn

by Todd Fedszyn

T

he SPYC Junior Sailing Team continues to remain busy with sailors competing regularly in everything from the Opti, Laser, HS 420 to the J70 and a Tripp 38.

Mendelblatt trophy. Ten top keelboat teams were in attendance from all corners of the USA. After ten races it was Ransom Everglades that came out on top taking home the top prize.

Over the Christmas Holidays Guthrie Braun, Sidney Moyer, and Leah Abrams made the trek to Miami to sail in the Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta. Guthrie was our top performer finishing in 3rd place overall in the Laser Radial fleet. In the Laser 4.7 fleet, Sidney finished in 20th place and in the Opti Green fleet Leah finished in 47th.

With the upcoming NOOD Regatta just around the corner, be sure to keep your eyes on the results as SPYC will have 2 full youth teams sailing in the J70 class with support from Sailing World and Helly Hansen.

A couple of weeks before the Christmas holiday, SPYC hosted the annual High School Keelboat National Championship for the

Believe it or not, registration is open for the 2020 SPYC Summer Sailing Camp. Be sure to visit www.sailstpete.org to check out the schedule and get your sailor signed up ASAP as we expect to once again sell out very early this year.

See yourself in 2020 on the adventure of a lifetime!

St. Petersburg Yacht Club announces

The 51st Regata del Sol al Sol

Race to Mexico

April 23-May 1, 2020 For information, go to regatadelsolalsol.org ... or spyc.org ... Click: > Regattas > Regata del Sol al Sol or use the SPYC app

Reduced entry fee, if boat fee is paid by Dec. 31, 2019!

NOR available now!

We thank our sponsors:

Race No. LI

Prism • Coral Reef Sailing Apparel • Sailors Wharf • JLW Inc. Hotel Cabanas Maria del Mar • Hotel Playa de Media Luna • Hotel Rocamar • Hotel Villa Kiin • Hotel Secreto Penn-Starr • LTD Southwinds • Friends of Isla

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

ON THE WATER 6

YACHTING INFORMATION COMMITTEE

by Donna Sue Marks, Yachting Information Chairperson Individually, we are one drop, together we are an ocean. – Ryunosuke Satoro – Japanese Writer

T

his beautiful metaphor describes a very simple idea – by working together we can accomplish far more than we can alone. To that end, I’d like to thank all of the members that contributed to our Call for Nominations for the 2019 Annual Yachting Recognition Awards.

We have a full slate of outstanding yachtsmen and yachtswomen who through 2019 have honored our Club as local, regional,

national, and international ambassadors in various on and off the water roles. Join us in congratulating members who have been inducted into the Sailing Hall of Fame, won World Champions, Junior Sailors completing their first regattas, and Race Committee volunteers who have shown their dedication to the sport for decades. Our awards have expanded to include the “Looper�, Open Ocean Cruisers and Long Range Cruising with members exceeding 5000nm. We have a few members who deserve special recognition beyond the scope of these awards.

Plan to attend! Save the date for Tuesday, March 31st, 5:30 pm social and 6:00 pm ceremony begins.

SAILING SCHEDULE 2020 Regatta Schedule

ADULT LEARN TO SAIL CLASSES February 22/23 February 29/March 1st REGISTER NOW FOR THE 2020 SPSC SUMMER CAMP! The Sailing Center will be offering 10 weeks of classes beginning June 1st - August 6th.

Registration opens February 1st.

Full summer camp schedule is available at www.sailstpete.org.

Contact 727-822-3113 or sailingcenter@spyc.org to register.

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Valentine’s Regatta ~ Feb. 8-9 NOOD Regatta ~ Feb. 14-16 Thistles Midwinters East Championship ~ March 1-6 Crown Cars Regatta ~ March 14 SPYC Twilight Series ~ March 20 - Aug. 31 Winter Lightning Championships ~ March 21-25 Ted Irwin Memorial Pusser’s Rum Cup ~ March 28 Suncoast Raceweek ~ April 3-5, Awards April 10 51st Anniversary Regata del Sol al Sol ~ April 23 - May 1 Snipes World Masters ~ May 2-9

The next St. Petersburg - Habana Race March 14 - 21, 2021

ON THE WATER 7

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Recognition Awards Ceremony Tuesday ~ March 31st 5:30 pm Social - 6:00 pm Program (Located in the Ballroom)

Meet, greet, and praise your fellow SPYC members whose on the water achievements carry the SPYC burgee and name to regional, national, and world wide recognition.

Downtown Clubhouse

PLEASE JOIN US IN THE CELEBRATION!

~ Hors d’oeuvres, Soft Drinks, Cash Bar ~

Let us know you are attending.

RSVP at: 727-892-6882 -OR- catering@spyc.org

—AHOY ye— THE SALTY SISTERS CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO BECOME A MEMBER!

Applications Available starting March 3

Seven Seas Cruising Association Cruising Conference & GAM February 22nd - 7:45 am - 5:15 pm Hosted at the downtown Clubhouse Open to all SPYC members & their guests Early Bird Registration including Buffet Lunch: $50/pp Members of: St. Petersburg YC, SSCA, AGLCA, OCC & MTOA $65/pp non-members (Prices increase by $10 on 2/8 - Online Registration closes 2/15) *Cash Bar to follow program*

Conference Presentations:

Great Gadgets And Ideas While Cruising ~ Bill Culen Dorian, Surviving Ground Zero ~ Joe Chilberg Weather Concerns ~ Chris Parker Lessons Learned in 12 Years and 40,000 Miles ~ Ed & Sue Kelly 70th Birthday - Let’s Sail to Antarctica ~ Peter Plumb Tides, Currents And Digital Navigation ~ Tom Hale

Information or to Register: www.SSCA.org/stpete

[ at the front desk Downtown or SPYC@PAG.]

Membership in the Salty Sisters is open to women Our Mission: members of SPYC. “To promote New applicants must sailing be eager to particiand to assist pate in sailing, race our committee and other members in exciting water relatbecoming more ed activities. proficient WELCOME ABOARD! In the science of sailing.”

For More Information Please Contact:: COME JOIN US! Els Wiemken Els@gmail.com Trisha Birkenstock Trishab@tampabay.rr.com Or: Jennifer Parramore ParramoreJ88@gmail.com SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

EVENTS CALENDAR 8

The Beach Club at

FEBRUARY Sun

Mon

Pass-a-Grille For Online Reservations ~ Visit www.spyc.org

Login, click Member Central --> Calendar--> then choose your event to reserve.

Fri

Thurs

Tues & Wed

CLOSED

1

Broad Reachers 11 am Deck Music 5-8 pm

CLOSED

2

The BIG Game Specials!

9

3

LBC Mah Jongg 1 pm Happy Hour 4-7 pm Unsinkables 6-9 pm

10

16

23

Bloody Mary Bar & Brunch 10:30 am - 1:30 pm

4

CLOSED

5

CLOSED

11

LBC Mah Jongg 1 pm

CLOSED

Happy Hour 4-7 pm

12

17

LBC 11 am LBC Mah Jongg 1 pm Happy Hour 4-7 pm

24

6

Bridge11 am

7

8

14

15

21

22

Broad Reachers 11 am Deck Music 5-8 pm

BINGO! 6:30 pm Happy Hour 4-7 pm

13

Bridge 11am Happy Hour 4-7 pm

Happy Valentine’s Day! Dinner Specials 5:30-8:30 pm

Broad Reachers 11 am Deck Music 5-8 pm

CLOSED

18

CLOSED

19

20

Bridge 11 am Happy Hour 4-7 pm

Wine Society 6 pm

Broad Reachers 11 am Deck Music 5-8 pm

Italian Wines

CLOSED

25

LBC Mah Jongg 1 pm

CLOSED

Happy Hour 4-7 pm

26

27

Bridge 11 am

28

29

Happy Hour 4-7 pm

CLOSED

MARCH UPCOMING EVENTS (All dates subject to change) 5: BINGO! 16: Ladies Beach Club (LBC) 17: St. Paddy’s Day Corned Beef & Cabbage Lunch (Limited Club hours on this day) 20: Wine Society 29: Bloody Mary Bar & Brunch

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Sat

Mondays: LBC Mah Jongg Thursdays: Bridge Saturdays: Broad Reachers & LIVE Music on Deck PAG Beach Club 2301 Pass-a-Grille Way St. Pete Beach, FL 33706 | 727-360-1646

Broad Reachers 11 am Deck Music 5-8 pm

EVENTS CALENDAR

Downtown

FEBRUARY Sun

Clubhouse

9

For Online Reservations ~ Visit www.spyc.org

Login, click Member Central --> Calendar--> then choose your event to reserve.

Tues

Mon

Fri

Thu

Wed

CLOSED

1

Sat

VIP Proposer & New Member Event

2

3

CLOSED

9

Fleet Cruise Mar Vista Marina Jack

10

CLOSED

4

5

Golf Group 6 pm

NOOD Regatta

23 SPYC KIDS! Laser Tag Party 1:30 pm

6

Woman’s Club Fashion Show & Mad Hatter’s Tea Party- 2 pm

Passport Club 5 pm

11 11 12

Salty Sisters Saltwater Anglers 6 pm

Valentine’s Regatta

16

Salty Sisters

17

CLOSED

24

CLOSED

18 18 19 Amateur Radio Club 6pm

Salty Sisters

Riders Club 6 pm

Trivia Night 7 pm

25

26

Salty Sisters

Cruising Fleet Meeting/Lunch Noon Fleet Cruise Mar Vista Marina Jack

13

RV Land Cruisers 5 pm Wingshooters Society 6 pm

20

Wine Society 6 pm

7

Fleet Cruise Mar Vista Marina Jack Bourbon & Cigar Event 7:30 pm

14

NOOD Regatta Valentine’s Day Dinner For 2 Valentine’s Specials in Grille 1909

Fleet Cruise Mar Vista Marina Jack Valentine’s Regatta

15

NOOD Regatta Valentine’s Specials in Grille 1909

21

22

28

29

Italian Wines

27

8

Comedy Night with John Rathbone 6 pm

MARCH UPCOMING EVENTS (All dates subject to change) 1-6: Thistles Midwinter East Championship 3: Golf Group 5: Cruising Fleet Meeting/Dinner 5: Passport Club 7: Gourmet Wine Dinner 8: Sailing Demo & Social 11: Saltwater Anglers 12: RV Land Cruisers

12: Wingshooters Society 13-15: FCYC Meeting at Isles YC 14: Crown Cars Regatta 17: Amateur Radio Club 17: Riders Club 17: St. Paddy’s Day Corned Beef & Cabbage Lunch 18: Trivia Night 18: Woman’s Club

19: Wine Society 20-22: Fleet Cruise to Venice YC 20: Twilight Series Begins 21-25: Winter Lightning Championships 26: Birthday Bash 27: Miss Saigon Dinner & Show 28: Ted Irwin Memorial Pusser’s Rum Cup 29: Member Art Show SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

MONTHLY EVENTS 10

MONTHLY EVENTS

TIKI HUT ENTERTAINMENT Downtown Friday Evenings

Downtown & Pass-a-Grille

ENTERTAINMENT IN THE HERITAGE LOUNGE

FAMILY NIGHT Downtown

$15++/pp (Includes a mini dessert)

Downtown

Feb. 7: Dave Williamson Feb. 14: Dave Vallerie Feb. 15: Farley Compton (Saturday) Feb. 21: Chris Rooney Feb. 28: Farley Compton Online Reservations at www.spyc.org.

(Click the “Event Calendar”, locate your event & register!)

RSVP Downtown: 727-892-6882 RSVP Beach Club (PAG): 727-360-1646

Feb 4-7: Antipasto Salad, Chicken Cutlet Pizzaiola, & Garlic Parsley Spaghetti

Feb. 4-8: Royz Band Feb. 11-15: Green Flash Feb. 18-22: DAZZLER Feb. 25 & 26: Harry Galloway Jazz Trio Feb. 27-29: Rukkus

Feb 11-14: Garlic Ginger Salad with Crisp Won Tons, General Tso Chicken, Jasmine Rice & Sesame Sauté Broccoli

PASS-A-GRILLE ENTERTAINMENT

Feb. 18-21: Hearts of Romaine Salad with Parmesan Cheese & Sun Dried Tomato Basil Vinaigrette, Spaghetti Bolognese, Shaved Asiago Cheese & Toasted Fennel

Located only at our Beach Club

Feb. 1: Chris Rooney Feb. 8: Doug Bliss Feb. 15: Dave Williamson Feb. 22: Steve Mullis Feb. 29: Chris Rooney Saturday LIVE Entertainment on the deck!

Every Saturday ~ 5:00-8:00 pm | Buckets of Beer ~ $11++

Feb. 25-28 : Smoked Duck Gumbo, Shrimp and Crawfish Jambalaya

Birthday Bash (Downtown):

Thursday, March 26th 6-9 pm $17++/per guest

Trivia Night (Downtown):

Wednesday, Feb. 19th 6:30-8:30 pm $10++/pp, ($20++/pp reservations made less than 7 days before event)

Wine Society Downtown: Thursday, Feb. 20th 6:00 pm

Wine Society PAG:

Friday, Feb. 21st 6:00 pm

Beach Club Bloody Mary Bar & Brunch:

Sunday, Feb. 23rd 10:30 am1:30 pm, $16++/pp Buffet, $3++ Bloody Marys (with Buffet)

Beach Club BINGO!

Thursday, Feb. 6th & March 5th 6:30 pm ($10++/pp)

CURRENT WEEKLY SPECIALS PASS-A-GRILLE

Featured Specials ~ $19++/pp (Dinners include dessert)

Feb 6th -10th Apple Pecan Salad, Pork Osso Buco, Mini NY Cheese Cake Feb 13th- 17th Spinach Artichoke Dip & Chips, Citrus Winter Branzino, Key Lime Cream February 20th - 24th Cuban Black Bean Soup, Ropa Vieja, Bavarian Cream Filled Churros February 27th- March 3rd Andouille & Chicken Gumbo, New Orleans Shrimp Jambalaya, Fat Tuesday King Cake FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Sundays: Sunday Brunch Buffet - Grille 1909 10:30 am - 1:30 pm ($16++/pp) Happy Hour - Tiki Hut 3-5 pm Tuesdays: Breakfast Buffet - Bridge Rm. 7-9 am Happy Hour - Lounge 4-7 pm Wednesdays: Breakfast Buffet - Bridge Rm. 7-9 am

DOWNTOWN Thursdays: Breakfast Buffet - Bridge Rm. 7-9 am Captains Wines - 1/2 Price!

Happy Hour - Tiki & Lounge 5-7 pm Fridays: Breakfast Buffet - Bridge Rm. 7-9 am Happy Hour - Tiki Hut 5-7 pm *Prime Time in Grille 1909 5:30-9:30 pm

Saturdays: Breakfast Buffet - Bridge Rm. 7:30-10:00 am Happy Hour - Tiki Hut 3-5 pm *Prime Time in Grille 1909 5:30-9:30 pm (Limited Lounge Menu available nightly after 9:30 pm)

CLUB EVENTS 11

WHAT’S HAPPENING

AT SPYC? Pass-a-Grille Friday, February 14th | Available from 5:30 - 9:30 pm Dinner Reservations: 727-360-1646

6 oz Bacon Wrapped Filet ~ $32++ Gouda Mashed Potatoes & Caramelized Baby Carrots 6 oz Twin Lobster Tails ~ $48++ Wild Rice Pilaf & Grilled Asparagus Surf & Turf ~ $44++ 6 oz Bacon Wrapped Filet & 6 oz Lobster Tail Gouda Mashed Potatoes, Caramelized Baby Carrots Dessert for Two ~ $10++ Strawberry Shortcake - Heart shaped vanilla sponge cake & fresh strawberries garnished with chocolate dipped strawberries

Prix Fixe Dinner Menu

Wine Pairing Selections

Seafood Neptune for Two Chilled Oysters Migonette, Snow Crab Shooters, Shrimp Ebi, Smoked Salmon, Rare Ahi Tuna, Lemon Caper Remoulade & Ginger Sweet Soy

1st Course Sancerre Les Glories

Salad Baby Red Oak Leaf & Frisee Salad with Wild Berries, Toasted Marcona Almonds, Extra Virgin Olive Oil Vinaigrette

2nd Course Chateau La Freynelle Blanc

Dinner $95++ Per Couple

Downtown Clubhouse

3rd Course - Choice of: Choice of Entree Chateauneaf du pape The Loving Couple ~ Bacon Wrapped Domaine Le Mourie Filet Mignon & Poached Canadian Lobster Tail, Cabernet Demi & Chablis Butter Sauce -OR-ORFreakshow Scottish Salmon Oreganata, Roasted Cabernet Fennel Herbed Linguini & Shaved Romano Cheese -OR-ORFreakshow Colorado Lamb Chops, Crumbled Goat Cheese, Chardonnay Pine Nut Pesto, Mint Chimichurri & Parsnip Potato Puree ~ Chef Suzanne’s Dessert for Two ~

Additional Wine Pairing $30++ Per Couple

4th Course - Dessert JP Chenet Sparkling

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14TH 8:00 pm seating still available in the Quarterdeck Room (Commodore Room seating is RSVP:727-892-6882 SOLD OUT) -OR- catering@spyc.org Indicate if you want the Wine Pairing when reserving.

Reservations Required: *48-hour cancellation 727-892-6882 -ORpolicy in effect.*

catering@spyc.org

Grille 1909 will have a limited menu with a Valentine Feature on: (48-hour cancellation Friday ~ Feb. 14th & policy in effect) Saturday ~ Feb. 15th Dining Reservations 727-822-3873 SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

CLUB EVENTS 12

Early Bird Rate!

Cocktails: 6:00 pm $35++/pp if RSVP before 2/18 Hors d’oeuvres: 6:30 pm ($45++/pp after this date) Show: 7:30 - 8:30 pm

Reservations include one drink per person

Located in Regatta Room

RSVP Online: spyc.org | or SPYC mobile app In the past 29 years, John Rathbone has performed nearly 6,000 comedy shows. More than a million people have seen him live. John has worked with the top names in the comedy business. Tim Allen, Paul Reiser, Ray Romano... Jerry Seinfeld called him an "excellent comedian." David Letterman came to see his show. Drew Carey said "John Rathbone always makes me laugh!" He has a witty humor, an urbane style, fantastic expressions, and an easy rapport with his audiences. His sense of humor appeals to a remarkable range of tastes. He has dozens of TV and Radio performances, appearing on Showtime, A&E Network, Bob & Tom, and Comedy Channel.

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

CLUB EVENTS

Downtown

15th Annual

13

Saturday ~ March 7th ~ 6:30 pm $65++/per guest (Reservations Required) Featuring wines from around the world paired with a gourmet menu prepared by Chef Joesph.

RECEPTION Passed Hors d’oeuvres Benvolio Prosecco, Italy

WINE DINNER Blue Crab Gaufretts Celeriac mousse and cream corn Maque choux Capensis Chardonnay, S. Africa

SUNDAY, MARCH 15TH 11:30 AM – 5:30 PM $46++/PP ($23++/AGES 4-12)

Burrata Cheese, Parma ham Breakfast radish, heirloom tomato and chives Crispy Duck Brandy, cardamom, coriander and quince Chateau Lassegue, Bordeaux, France Ostrich Fan Filet Parmesan polenta cake, blackberry gastric, thyme port wine glaze Yangarra GSM, Australia Porcini Dusted Red Deer Wild mushroom tarte Juniper, cracked peppercorns and sage Anakota Montana Cabernet Sauvignon | Napa, California Chocolate Karma St Gallen RSVP online at www.spyc.org, on the SPYC Mobile App or at 727-892-6882 (48-hour cancellation policy in effect)

Downtown Thursday, March 12th Sunday, March 15th Available from 5:30 - 9:30 pm $13++/pp Build your own Angus Western Burger with Fries & Salad Bar. Drink Specials Available

*Cancellations will be honored until Friday, March 13th by 5:00 pm.

If cancellation received after this time, your original reservation will be charged.*

GRAND PRIX WEEKEND ACCESS & PARKING TO THE CLUB ~ MARCH 15TH Approach the Club from the North on Beach Drive; it is an unobstructed path into the Club’s garage. There will be restricted Marina access. If you need to access the marina, you must have your Membership ID - NO exceptions.

IMPORTANT NOTE: GRAND PRIX GUEST PARKING

Parking will be reserved for SPYC Members ONLY and is on a “First Come, First Served” basis during each day of Grand Prix weekend. Reciprocal guests and guests of members may only park in the garage after 6:00 pm March 12th - 14th. Thank you for your cooperation.

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

CLUB EVENTS 14

Downtown CALL FOR ARTISTS!!

Sunday ~ March 29th, 2020 1:00 - 5:00 pm | Ballroom Enjoy Jazz Piano music, light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar Complimentary for members and guests to attend.

We invite you to be a part of this popular show that represents the diverse talents of our members.

Categories Include: Oil, Acrylic, Watercolors, Drawings, Pastels, Ceramics, Sculpture, Photography, Glass & Wood.

(Artwork can be displayed on easels, tables or hung from pro-panels.)

Artists may be present for discussions about their work and various artwork will be for sale.

Contact sandymacneill@msn.com for application to display your artwork.

Registration deadline is March 1st

I

50’s 60’s & 70’s

Dinner & Dancing With The Friday ~ April 3rd Back by Popular Demand!

One of Tampa Bay’s great Rock n’ Roll Dance Bands playing dance music from the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s. www.thesouthshorecruisers.com Early Bird Rate! $22++/pp if RSVP before 3/28 ($27++/pp for reservations after this date) Doors Open & Dinner Served: 6:30 pm Band Plays from 7:00 - 10:00 pm Large dance floor & PFO Bar, so bring your friends!

RSVP Online: spyc.org -OR- on the SPYC mobile app.

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Sathve e Date

Downtown

Wednesday, April 1st | $45++/pp Commodore Room ~ 6:00 pm (Limited to 30 people) Reservations Required: 727-892-6882 or catering@spyc.org

Downtown & Pass-a-Grille Sunday, April 12th Complete details announced in the March issue Downtown Reservations: 727-892-6882 or catering@spyc.org Pass-a-Grille Reservations: 727-360-1646

AROUND THE CLUB

CLUB! Mr. William “Jim” Brown ~ December 14, 2019 Mrs. Gretta Bella (Paige) Sewell ~ December 17, 2019 Mr. Charles McCaulely Waygood, Sr. ~ December 18, 2019 Mrs. Patricia Dozier ~ January 1, 2020

TRAVELING BURGEES

SPYC

AROUND THE

15

Member, Richard Nugent, represented SPYC at the IC37 National Championship and proudly displayed the Club burgee. Regatta was sponsored by NYYC in Newport, RI.

EMPLOYEE ANNIVERSARIES Sharon Pena ~ Banquet Server, 27 yrs.

Jonathan Rivera ~ Beverage Supervisor, 11 yrs.

John Mackrell ~ PAG Bartender, 11 yrs.

Alysia Wenckoski ~ PAG Supervisor, 7 yrs.

Suzanne Gendrot ~ Pastry Chef, 5 yrs.

Rabia Sookedo ~ Banquet Server, 4 yrs.

Adam Beattie ~ Valet, 4 yrs.

Kyah Lambert ~ Housekeeper, 3 yrs.

Jonathan Lopes ~ PAG Kitchen Supervisor, 2 yrs.

Brooke Potter ~ Catering Assistant, 1 yr Audrey Zygadlo ~ 1909 Busser, 1yr

Carolann & K.C. Haffey – Trans-Atlantic crossing on the bridge “Brilliance of the Seas”, Barcelona to Tampa – Nov. 2019.

Carolann & K.C. Haffey, visiting the bridge of Harmony of the Seas during their back to back December cruises on this magnificent vessel.

November 2019, member Mrs. Frances Doyle, traveled thru India with her niece and her husband (Liz & Daniel Cauldwell, members of the Ft. Lauderale YC) and enjoyed a lovely dinner after exploring this British Colonial Yacht Club.

Every year at the SPYC Employee Appreciation Event, our employees donate an array of new plush, stuffed animals to the “Music Sweet Music” non-profit organization.

This organizations mission is to contract Board Certified Music Therapists to provide children and adults with illnesses, diseases and disorders with Music Therapy sessions and the special musical instruments used in Music Therapy. The ultimate goal is to support skill development in areas such as communication, academic learning, daily living skills, motor functioning, social skills, behavior, and mental health. These are common goal areas of children and adults with diagnoses such as autism, neurologic impairments, orthopedic impairments, speech impediment, post traumatic stress syndrome, and other disabilities. We thank all of our employees for their generous donations this year for the children of Music Sweet Music. For more information about this organization, please visit musicsweetmusic.org.

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

AROUND THE CLUB 16

BARBARA KEARNES

JANUARY EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH Behind the scenes there is a person who has been instrumental to the Accounting Department as well as to the entire Club, and for her above and beyond effort, we would like to recognize Barbara Kearnes as the Employee of the Month for January 2020! It is hard to describe everything Barbara does, from accounting to computers to menus to the website, Barbara is knowledgeable in so many areas and keeps the Club running smoothly. She is extremely reliable, always accurate, and willing to help out wherever she is needed. We would be lost without her – thank you, Barbara, for everything you do and congratulations on a job well done!

CHASE HUDSPETH

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 2019 Congratulations to Chase Hudspeth, SPYC’s 2019 Employee of the Year!

“Captain” Chase joined the Club in August of 2018 and hit the ground running.

He has made a significant impact to the Dock Operations through his expertise, improving our reservation and confirmation system, focusing on attention to detail, impressing the members and guests who frequent our downtown marina.

Chase is always upbeat with a friendly smile and a solid work ethic that is noticed by all. He never lets “no” be the answer to any challenge he has faced, always working to find a solution. Congratulations, Chase, for a job well done!

MICHAEL PORTER

RUNNER-UP EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR 2019 We would like to congratulate Michael Porter as the 2019 runner-up for Employee of the Year. Michael has been a part of the Valet Department since August of 2017, and has always given the Club his best, going above and beyond whenever needed, staying positive, energetic, and dedicated every day. He had been nominated four times by the management team during the year when he won for the month of September – a true standout to be recognized that many times. Michael is a pleasure to work with – thank you for all that you do!

“Anchors Aweigh!”

Anchor’s Aweigh with Anne & Andy! ~ January Winner: Daniel Town Daniel is the lucky winner of the January Anchor’s Aweigh game/raffle, spotting all eleven (11) of the Anne & Andy images. To recap, they were spotted on pages: 5,6,8,11,14,17,18,19,21,22,& 27. Daniel snagged $100 in food & beverage gift certificates he can use while dining at the Club!

Submit your answer for this month’s game by February 10th to the Member Services Coordinator at 727-892-6893 or member.services@spyc.org. Each month one name is drawn out of ALL of the correct answers submitted. The WINNER will be announced on the 15th, and contacted via phone or email to claim their prize. Happy Hunting & Good Luck!

*Note: Image of Anne & Andy on this page (to the left) DOES NOT count in the game.* FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB

GOLF

17

GROUP

by Connie Smith

Video Instruction

T

he Golf Group was still in the “Holiday Spirit of Giving” as we ushered in the New Year. At the January meeting, golf equipment was gathered to donate to the “First Tee of St. Petersburg”. This local chapter of a national organization Equpiment for the First Tee promotes golf to grade school and high school boys and girls who might not otherwise have the opportunity to be introduced to this sport of a lifetime. There are before and after school programs in addition to summer events and golf camps. The facility is located at the Twin Brooks Golf Course. We are proud to have such a wonderful organization in our community.

In addition to an array of golf clubs, bags, shoes, balls, tees, hats, and a putting mat, a generous check of 500 dollars was donated by the Golf Group to this worthy cause in our community. A big thank you goes to Eric McShane who was not shy to make a motion that we increase the amount from the previous year, and of course it was unanimously seconded! Visit “The First Tee of St. Petersburg” web site at www.thefirstteestpetersburg.org to gain more information.

Rule by Joop

The Rule of the Month was presented by Joop Van Der Krabben and was a welcome reminder to the options to be taken if a player’s ball is thought to be out of bounds, which is on or beyond the white stakes on the course.

Martin Morris wowed us all again with his tech ability to present an engaging golf instructional video on the big screen.

Smiling Nydia Ballesteros commanded her usual station with the 50/50 drawing and John Arsenault ended the evening with his usual golf jokes!

50/50 Monthly Drawing

Look for results from our last outing at Countryside Country Club in the next newsletter.

If you would like to join the Golf Group, contact Susan Arsenault at sueatcp@aol.com.

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB 18

Guests are welcome ($5.00 per guest payable to LBC day of the event; their lunch is charged to the member account).

by Dr. Patsy Warmack, President

N

ot ALL members of the LBC play Mah Jongg but approximately 65% do! February 3rd will be our annual Mah Jongg Tournament and we expect a lot of players.

2020 is the year of the rat on the Chinese calendar. The rat, though it may sound frightful, symbolizes industriousness, thrift, diligence and positive attitude. Sounds like the LBC members to me!!

The year of the rat is going to be a great year for the LBC and it’s not too late to join in the fun (see below for details on how to join).

February 17th will be an excellent program. Debbie Heston, program chairwoman, has lined up Linda Alexander who will entertain us with her knowledge of Tiffany lamp design. Clara Wolcott Driscoll, Alexander’s 4th cousin, was hired by Louis Comfort Tiffany to design Tiffany lamps – you might say she broke Tiffany’s glass ceiling! Details of Driscoll’s experience will be unveiled after a brief program meeting.

February 17th 10:45 am Sign-in 11:00 am Brief Meeting Followed by Linda Alexander then lunch Make your reservation by Friday, February 14th -- call PAG at (727) 360-1646 or email kerrie@spyc.org. Let the Club know if you have special dietary needs when you make your reservation. Mah Jongg will be played after the festivities so plan to spend the day. If you need lessons, send me an email (patsywarmack@tampabay.rr.com) and I’ll arrange it for you.

The LBC is all about having fun so come join us!!

Membership forms available at SPYC.org or, call/email Membership Chair, Cheryl Lanfear, 512-264-5542 or mclanfear@yahoo.com to join or renew. It’s $30.00 annually and worth every penny! PAG only members are eligible to join the LBC!!

SALTWATER

ANGLERS

by Captain Wayne Andrews

Cooler Water Brings Great Fishing Nearshore

T

he December Gag Grouper bite was excellent. On one of the few less windy days before the season closed on December 31st, we managed to catch our limit trolling 1012 miles offshore in 40 feet of water. Come to our next meeting and we’ll talk about what’s biting!

The Bob Lee Memorial Fishing Tournament date is set for Saturday, October 24th at the Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse. Get in on the fun and sign up now!

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Wayne Andrews & Hayden Bedford with a December 29th limit of Gag Grouper

The Saltwater Anglers meet at 6:00 pm on the second Wednesday evening of every month at the downtown Clubhouse. Please come join us at one of our next meetings on February 12th or March 11th, or sign-up at SPYC.org.

‘

Womans

CLUB

by JoAnn Wood, President

F

ebruary is going to be a fun packed month for the Woman’s Club. The 6th Annual Fashion Show & Mad Hatters Tea Party will be February 5th at 2:00 pm. On February 7th from 1:00-3:00 pm, there will be a discounted shopping spree with sparkling beverages and refreshments at BoTiki Boutique in Gulfport for those who attended the Fashion Show. February 27th our Vice President, Deborah Hopper, will host a happy hour for the FunSeekers at her lovely home.

Do you have a sweet tooth? If so, don’t miss the February 19th Woman’s Club program featuring Suzanne Gendrot, the Yacht Club’s Executive Pastry Chef.

During her 5 year tenure, she has elevated the quality and output of the sweets and baked goods throughout the Club; introducing new techniques and tantalizing treats.

Her father Michel Gendrot, a French Chef, sparked her desire to be a Chef and was instrumental in guiding her career. Suzanne holds a degree in Commercial Art from Endicott College in Beverly, MA., and her resume includes the Hard Rock Hotel and the Renaissance Vinoy.

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB 19

WOMAN’S CLUB INTEREST GROUPS Book Group Facilitator: Sue Bettencourt Meets 4th Wed unless noted Social 5 pm | Discussion 5:30-6:30 pm snbettencourt88@gmail.com Bridge Group Facilitator: Joyce Sterrett 727-822-5878 Meets every Tues @ 1 pm [lunch @ Noon optional] Fun Seekers Facilitator: Deborah Giaquinto Event dates and times vary deborahgia@icloud.com

Mah Jongg Meets every Thurs @ 1 pm [lunch @ Noon optional] Facilitators: Angela Kowalik and Patsy Warmack koalafam@tampabay.rr.com patsywarmack@tampabay.rr.com Sunshine Debbie Hooper dhhopper@aol.com Membership: Janna Ranney jannrann@gmail.com or visit our club website page for the form to join or renew.

[Please note-full calendar in Woman’s Club directory)

[Please note – these are subject to change each month] Membership in the Woman’s Club is required to participate in the Interest Group activities.

The Mission of the Woman’s Club is to embrace new friendships, promote social activities and increase women’s involvement in the SPYC.

Latin Dance Lessons Every Wednesday in March at 8:00 pm (4th, 11th, 18th & 25th) Complimentary to attend for members Hosted in the Regatta Room Learn Salsa, Merengue, Bachata and other latin dances.

Taught by Dance Passion Studio Reservations Required Online at SPYC.org or the SPYC Mobile App

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB Ugly Sweater Winners - Kathy Ahern (3rd), Katelin Clardy (2nd), Shirley Rigo (1st)

Class of 2018

20

SALTY SISTERS

them through the interludes. The girls did a marvelous job and received a standing ovation from the crowd.

by Carol Hansen

D

Vanessa Beckman & Beverly Smoak

ecember proved to be a busy month for the Salty Sisters beginning with the Annual Christmas Party. Captain Kathy Ahern welcomed everyone and, after getting everyone seated, she introduced the Class of 2018’s Tacky Trio. Vanessa Beckman and Beverly Smoak performed their skit with a stick figure standing in to represent Jennifer Anderson, who was spending Christmas in Bora Bora!! Stephanie Morris assisted backstage and the chorus of Ellen Pavone, Ginny Daniels, and Mary Moosbrugger sang

On December 18th, Co-Captain Els Wiemken announced that the Annual Candy Cane Regatta had to be postponed to a later date due to high winds, however we did have a successful “Ugly Sweater” contest at lunch that day. The past couple of months, the Salty Sisters have been busy chairing and participating in many regatta events. Janet Walker chaired the 2019 America’s Disabled Regatta with 14 boats managing to navigate through and around the St. Petersburg Boat Show. Selga Sakss chaired the Fall Bay Races and several of the Offshore Races. Captain Kathy Ahern chaired the A Cat 2019 National Championship.

The upcoming months will be quite busy with the Salty Sisters participating and volunteering as PRO’s and Race Committee beginning with the Valentine’s Regatta and NOOD.

BROAD

REACHERS

by Marti Cochran

A

Sailing at PAG

s 2019 came to a close, the Broad Reachers made merry at their Annual Holiday Party, held at the Passa-Grille Clubhouse on December 21st. Captain Gwen Mann welcomed members, gifts were selected and stolen, and laughter was abundant! The party capped off a year of fun and accomplishments for the Broad Reachers, including hosting a spring inter-club regatta devoted to racing strategies, sending teams to the FWSA Rainbow Regatta & FWSA Club Championship, and hosting one of the most successful and widely attended Lucas Cup Regattas in years.

The past year also was notable for the great teamwork by club members, who moved boats and sailing equipment back and

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

Pram Van

forth from one end of the club parking area to the other, in the months when our storage facilities were displaced for the pool construction and upgrade of the north parking area. Thanks to Carol Hansen for turning her 2000 Dodge Caravan into a “Pram Van” to make the work go faster! We closed out the year grateful for the support of SPYC and Club Manager Marc Reydams for providing a final resting place for our boat trailer close to the launch ramp and helping all of us keep sailing!

Come join us for some Saturday fun sailing! For more information about becoming a Broad Reacher, contact Carol Hansen at carol@dband1.com.

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB

RIDERS

21

CLUB

by Bill Tinsley

T

he Holidays kept everyone busy, but the Riders found time to get together for an excellent ride led by Tim Gressert, our own culinary expert...as long as it’s Bar-B-Que or Mexican food! Nice ride around South Central Florida on back roads only Tim can find…. no better way to really see the area than on “Two Wheels”! Then there was the “very authentic” Mexican restaurant where we ate good food and swapped stories. Riders always tell the best stories...only second to Pilots!

Bob Kline left his ride at his new house in North Carolina and decided to “join the Tribe” by buying a very nice Indian Motorcycle

to ride down here, shown in the pictures taken by Bart Franey, also a “Tribe” member.

Before signing off all of us would like to thank Denise Gero for her past dedication to the Riders Club articles and events. Thank you Denise for your years of service keeping us informed and on track.

As always the Riders Club welcomes anyone to attend our meetings and join our rides. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the downtown Club. Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 18th at 6:15 pm. Let’s ride!

President: Bill Tinsley bill.tins@gmail.com Co-President: Bart Franey bartfraney@gmail.com Vice President: Ray Noyes rayn.ecchvac@gmail.com Secretary: Douglas Freedle janusfla@tampabay.rr.com

RV LAND CRUISERS

By Angela

J

Let’s Rally and Roll!!! …

Mednick’s new Nexus Wraith

oin us for our next meeting

Tuesday, February 11th at 5:00 pm.

Our program – Disney’s Fort Wilderness. Larry & Joy Wissing, along with Kevin and Carolann Haffey, will share tidbits and insight on this magical RV campground. You may never have seen this side of Disney!

St. Jean’s new Newmar New Aire

Meanwhile, some roadies are starting their new year by making some upgrades. In December, Ken and Corrine St. Jean traded in their beloved Mercedes/Navion for their new beloved 2019 Newmar New Aire 3343. And Howie and Barbara Mednick upgraded to a 2020 Nexus 32 Wraith. I’m sure if you asked, both of them will share their excitement about their finds and next adventures in their new RVs!! What’s your new rig gonna be?!?

To join the group and keep up with our events, where we will be making adventures happen, please contact Angela Kowalik at koalafam@tampabay.rr.com.

Looking forward to seeing you around the next bend …

Disney’s Fort Wilderness

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB 22

Journey with us at our upcoming presentations!

This Month! February 6th

Presented by Ralph Warmack “Bareboating on European Waterways Sharing bare-boating experiences in France, Italy & Germany” A self-drive boating vacation is a perfect way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of European waterways. Discover the beauty of Europe and its countryside from scenic canals to romantic rivers.

Explore the sights or stop at any time to relax, indulge in fine wines, and delicious food.

Choose from various boating destinations with distinct scenery, gastronomy, culture, and charm and explore at your own pace aboard your self-drive boat. No license or experience is required.

The rental company shows you everything you need to know during a briefing and demonstration, then you’re off to enjoy your canal and river vacation.

It’s like driving a car, except much easier and more relaxing!

Experience the world through guest speakers & fellow travelers. * March 5th - Mary Lou Turgeon & Dick Mordaunt, Mongolia: The Land of Nomads, Yurts & Ghengis Khan - fulfilling a dream to interact with vanishing nomads and pursue their hobby of photography. * April 2nd - Loren Hoffman, A Himalayan Odyssey: Travel Adventures in Nepal - photos and narration of his adventures in the tiny and remote country, a country with diverse birds, animal & plant life.

All presentations 5:00 - 7:00 pm | $15++/pp Hors d’oeuvres provided | RSVP: Online spyc.org -OR- 727-892-6882

The mission of the Passport Club is to have fun and share travel experiences, plans, and bucket lists for domestic & international travels; by air, land, sea, or just kicking back and letting others take the wheel! (Guests welcome ~ food & beverage will be billed to member account.)

Three Pines Hunt - Dec. 2019

by Rich Treinen

C

ool, or cold weather if you’re from Florida, is quail season for the Wing Shooters. Our big hunt was in mid-November at the Dorchester Plantation in Georgia. From December through February we organize day trips. This year we picked Three Pines, a quail preserve on the Barthle Brothers Ranch just North of Tampa. However, the days available and the hunters per day are limited. We break up into groups of 2 to 6. Dan Gross and Joe Petrella went first on December 30th and had a

very successful hunt. Over a few weeks, sixteen more from our group will have their day. The quail bagged at both Dorchester and Three Pines as well as game from other hunts over the year; duck, goose, venison and whatever else is found in the freezer; are served at the annual Wing Shooters wild game dinner. This is when the fine culinary skills of a few Society members are appreciated. The dinner is an outdoor event hosted at the home of a Society member. It is scheduled every Spring, once the weather warms up.

Our monthly meetings are on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6:00 pm.

Those wishing to join the Wing Shooters Society are encouraged to contact Grand Marshall Gene Collins at 727-385-4878 or genebcollins@hotmail.com.

FEBRUARY 2020 | SMOOTH SAILING

CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB

CRUISING

FLEET

by Willy Bain, Fleet Captain

W

hat an exciting December! The Cruising Fleet out did themselves with parties and awards. Our Annual Holiday & Awards Dinner was a huge Vildibill Trophy awarded to Angela Kowalik success with over 50 attendees.

Awards were presented for “Fleet Participation” and “Port Directors”. In addition, the Nancy Vildibill Trophy was awarded for commitment to the Cruising Fleet, SPYC programs, FCYC, and making cruising fun! This year’s recipient was Angela Kowalik.

Winner of best decorated Powerboat

The Cruising Fleet participated in the “Lighting of the Yachts” at SPYC downtown Marina. With food and beverages flowing and bribes offered to the judges, competition was keen this year and the judges had a difficult time selecting the winners. With the final votes tallied “Next Chapter” decorated

Next Chapter Runner-up

23

Runner-up of best decorated sailboat

by Caryn & Willy Bain won best powerboat, “Isabella” decorated

by Isabel & Ed Hanna won runner up for best sailboat, and “The Lovely Martha” decorated by Martha & David Monfried won runner up for best powerboat decorations. Well done Fleet!

January’s dinner meeting saw a large turnout of 55 participants, which made for a splendid kick-off to another cruising year. In addition to a social hour and dinner, two presentations were given to start cruising right. Tim Connolly presentative a very informative lecture on the use and benefit of the safe cruising app, “Active Captain”. This was followed by a presentation by Fleet Captain Willy Bain on “Considerations for Anchoring Out”.

Upcoming events for the Cruising Fleet to enjoy include: • Feb. Luncheon (6th) – SPYC Harborview Rm • Feb. Cruise (6th- 8th) – Anchor out (6th)/Marina Jack (7th-8th) Inquire or sign-up for our events on the SPYC Website, Cruising Fleet page.

Looking forward to seeing you on the water …

AMATEUR RADIOCLUB

by Jack Satterfield, ARC President, W4GRJ

A

mateur Radio Club (ARC) meetings are held every third Tuesday at 6:15 pm in the Park View Room, with a pre-meeting “Eyeball for a Highball” in the lounge. You can also observe our “On The Air” radio net in operation by joining members with handheld radios at PAG on the outside deck every Monday at 5:30 pm. Next meeting will be held on February 18th.

If you are interested in becoming a licensed Amateur Radio Operator, ARC members can help you prepare for the written exam (no Morse code required). Be prepared for this year’s Hurricane Season by getting your ham license now! Study help online www.hamtestonline.com.

SMOOTH SAILING | FEBRUARY 2020

Tuesday, March 17th ~ Downtown Clubhouse ch Buuet!!

Complimentary Corned Beef & Cabbage Lun

Served in Grille 1909 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (last seating at 1:30 pm) Reservations Not Required (1st come, 1st served basis) Complimentary for Members only. ($16++/per non-member) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ During Happy Hour enjoy two performances featuring Irish Dancers at 5:00 pm & 6:00 pm - taking place in the Compass Room.

Tuesday, March 17th ~ SPYC Beach Club Complimentary Corned Beef & Cabbage Lunch!

We will be open on this day for our special Corned Beef & Cabbage lunch only.

Served from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm (last seating at 1:30 pm) Complimentary for Members only ($12++/per non-member) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *Beach Club will CLOSE at 2:00 pm on this day.*

Reservations Required: 727-360-1646