November 2024
Getting to Know Him
Up close and personal with CYC’s 112th Commodore Christian Tracey
Founded in 1878
Leave it to the Wet Hens
From pumpkin sails to theatrical shows, these gals are all in
What’s the Holiday Haps?
Your special event calendar is about to get loaded with festivities
Commodore
Andrew Drumm
Vice Commodore
Christian Tracey
Rear Commodore
Philip Slaght
Fleet Captain
From Oktoberfest oom-pah-pahs to Ladies Trip adventures and wine events, members drank in all there was to enjoy this season!
Christiaan van Raalten
Management Committee
Tom McNeill III
Mark Callahan
Richard Slaght
Steve Kmetz
General Manager
Marc Dallas
Editor
Mary Ann Smith
CYC Islander deadline:
We welcome members’ photos for the newsletter. Drop off copy and/ or photos for the December issue to the CYC Islander mailbox in the Club office by November 10. You may also send copy to msmith@cycrr.org.
Cover photo:
At Change of Watch on November 16, the helm will pass from soon-to-be P/C Andrew Drumm to Commodore Christian Tracey.
CYC hosted yet another Fall Series Regatta! More than 45 sailors from six yacht clubs arrived at CYC to compete in the Thistle Equinox Regatta (LEFS).
With the efforts of our own John Yingling, the help of our Flag Line and CYC members as race committee, the regatta was smooth sailing.
The top three were awarded at the end of the regatta. With the end of Thistle Equinox Regatta, the 2024 Sail Fleet season came to an end. Sailors are already excited for another season to arrive and sail on!
Top 3:
1st -Berlin Yacht Club
2nd - Berlin Yacht Club
3rd - Sandusky Yacht Club
— Waterfront Director Nogay Dokmeci
As a kid growing up in the small township of Champion, Ohio, just north of Warren, which boasts zero yacht clubs, Christian Tracey didn’t aspire to someday be the Commodore of one. When he and wife Maureen joined CYC in 2010, he had no idea this is where he’d end up.
“When I learned that I could be considered for the honor, I viewed it as an amazing opportunity to serve my fellow members and have some fun along the way,” he says.
Tracey’s goals are to continue the traditions of CYC, focus on member experience, and work to prepare CYC for the future.
A major project that will be finalized under his watch is the Bridge Project. Over the next six months, he will be working closely with General Manager Marc Dallas and Fleet Engineer Jason Smith to ensure that the bridge project is completed on time and on budget.
spent a lot of time on airplanes,” he laughs.
He met Maureen in a Cleveland pub on St. Patrick’s Day, being bowled over by her green go-go boots and sparkling personality. She practiced law at the same firm as his sister-in-law and owned a power boat, while he had a sailboat.
“P/Cs Drumm and Mansuetto, along with their management committee chairs Tommy McNeill and Matt Dugan, as well as our previous Fleet Engineer Brian McCue, have done a lot of work to get us to this spot and I expect that the project will be a success and that we will have a bridge to last another 75 years,” he says.
Two things he mentions he’s learned from P/C Drumm are that a steady hand on the helm is the way to lead CYC, and that thinking like a member and not just a Commodore is important. “He has been an excellent role model,” says Tracey.
Tracey grew up in Champion, along with his parents, four younger brothers and a younger sister.
After graduating from Champion High School, he got his pilot’s license at age 18 and then went on to the flight program at Kent State University, where he was also on the Sail Team, ultimately graduating with a business degree. After that he traveled the country as a consultant, and gravitated to technology as a career, running business units in Europe and Asia for Microsoft.
“So while I wasn’t flying them, I still
“Boating has always been a fixture in our relationship and some of our earliest dates were days spent water skiing on the Ohio River and traveling to the Lake Erie Islands by boat,” he says.
When they were first married, they kept their boat in Port Clinton, but wanted something closer to their Rocky River home. CYC fit the bill.
“It has great amenities, family-centric activities and events, waterfront dining, and Maureen worked here in college, so she has a special fondness for the club,” he says.
The Traceys seldom miss a club event, whether for Power Fleet or watching their kids Cormac, age 16, and Mallory, age 14, take part in Sail Camp and Swim Team. The family currently owns a sport fishing style boat it uses primarily to cruise. They participate in every Power Fleet cruise and have gone as far north as the North Channel of Ontario. “We also enjoy weekend trips to the Islands and watching the Cleveland Air Show from our boat,” he adds. “For us, the club has provided a sense of community and brought so many dear friends and amazing people into our lives.”
When asked his favorite boating memory, the answer is immediate: “Having the opportunity to go on P/C Clevenger’s cruise to the British Virgin Islands in 2022. I have sailed in the BVIs in the past but seeing that part of the world through Cormac and Mallory’s eyes was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Watching them explore the caves at Normal Island with their friends was magical.”
Prior to joining CYC, Tracey was a member of the Put-In-Bay Yacht Club and, along with his brother Shawn and father, owned a series of sailboats up to 40-feet that they raced avidly.
“We won a few regattas and were competitive on longer courses when we had a bit of wind,” he says. “We often had crews of family, including my brothers and sister, plus cousins, and friends, so it was always a good time regardless of finishing position.”
Tracey brings to the role of Commodore a specialty in technology systems and management. After leaving Microsoft, he joined a college friend who started Group Management Services, an HR outsourcing company based in Richfield, where he’s served as the Chief Technology Officer for the past eight years.
“My role in operations, as well as my experience at Fortune 50 companies, have given me a solid background in managing people, processes and technology,” he says.
In the end, our new Commodore, who describes himself as “hardworking, fun-loving and driven,” says he believes, “CYC is truly a world class yachting club and one of the best on the Great Lakes.”
Are you forgetting information? Having difficulty doing tasks you used to find easy, like following a recipe or running errands?
These are all symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a slight decline in mental ability. MCI can happen to anyone at any age, but is particularly common in people over 55. By age 65, approximately 15-20% of the U.S. population shows signs of MCI, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. These individuals are at greater risk of developing dementia, but some people don’t progress beyond a mild state of forgetfulness. If you are experiencing mild cognitive impairment, you can do a lot of things, like improving your diet, being social and exercising your brain by reading, completing puzzles and learning new skills.
Plus, exercise can help maintain both physical and cognitive health. Exercise improves circulation, which means more oxygen-rich blood and nutrients make it to your brain. Exercise enhances synaptic plasticity, which is your brain’s ability to adjust and improve its connections. That enables you to remember and learn.
How much exercise do you need? The current recommendation is for 30 minutes a day, five days per week, or combine the activities into two sessions over the weekend.
What type of exercises to try? The conventional wisdom used to be that aerobic exercise was the most beneficial, however, newer studies recommend a combination of aerobic exercise, strength training and balance training. We know a diverse range of exercises benefits brain health, especially as we age.
Here are a few examples of each kind of exercise:
Cardiovascular exercise includes walking, swimming, cycling, pickleball, rowing.
Strength training includes weightlifting, resistance band training, kettlebell training, isometric exercises and calisthenics.
Balance and flexibility training ranges from active stretching to yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates and Qigong.
The key takeaway is exercise will support your physical, mental and cognitive health!
—Fleet Surgeon Dr. Rebecca Starck
Commodore Andy and Peggy Drumm and Vice Commodore Christian and Maureen Tracey invite you and your family to be a part of CYC’s inaugural Buoy Tree project. We’ll be creating a giant, festive tree for the holiday season made out of buoys decorated by members of the CYC community! Paint a buoy on your own, decorate one for your family, or buy one for each of the kids or for your favorite CYC staff member. Any design goes! Buoys are available for $10 each and can be picked up at the clubhouse reception desk. Buoys will also be available for purchase at the adult “Buoy Bash” happy hour on Thursday, November 21, at 7 p.m. where we’ll have art supplies and cocktails to get the creative juices flowing! Email Maureen Tracey (mtracey1973@ outlook.com) with any questions.
the Commodores Bar. Anyone interested in more information or to RSVP for the party, please email Maria at cyctennisfleet@gmail.com.
It is our goal to provide the best dining experience and menu options. Let us know how we are doing by completing a dining survey after you enjoy your meal, and you can win a $100 gift certificate in our drawing. Click on this QR Code.
Congratulations to Sam Gifford, the winner of our dining survey drawing in September.
Come cheer them on with beer specials and a football food menu in the Pilot House Bar.
Sunday, November 3 vs San Diego Chargers, 1 p.m. Sunday, November 17 at New Orleans Saints, 1 p.m. Thursday, November 21 vs Pittsburgh Steelers, 8:15 p.m.
Thursday night Euchre will be returning starting Thursday, January 9, 2025 and running on a two week on and one week off schedule until the end of February for a total of six sessions. The dates are January 9, 16, 30 and February 6, 20, 27. Please make your plans to join in the fun, camaraderie, exhilaration and excitement. Watch for more details in the December Islander or contact Dave Wade at DaveWade1949@gmail.com.
As we sadly observe the tragic consequences of the recent hurricanes throughout the country, I once again feel very fortunate to share with all our fellow members the safe beauty of our city and our lake, while our thoughts and prayers go towards all the people so horribly hurt by the recent events.
As I arrived here many years ago from my native Italy, I immediately fell in love with my adoptive region, and over the years I have appreciated its splendor, often capturing with my camera amazing scenery and great beauty, which I have often presented to family and friends all over the world!
In November, the Tennis Fleet will continue to drill at Avon Oaks Country Club on Thursday, November 14, 1-2:30 p.m. and Saturdays, November 9 and 23, 10-11 a.m. We are also calling all Tennis Fleet members and anyone interested in joining to attend our end-of-year party on Thursday, November 20, 6-8 p.m. at
I do believe that the Thanksgiving season will carry a deeper meaning this year for many of us, and the CYC Art Fleet members wish for all the safest and most enjoyable time along with our families. Please stop by the Library to admire a wonderful painting by Mary Ellen French, titled “Huntington Rapids.” Mary Ellen, who holds a Fine Arts degree from the College of William and Mary, often wanders around the Metroparks along with her dog, thus finding great inspirations from the surroundings, as seen in her work.
—Marcello
Mellino, CYC Fine Art Fleet Chairperson
We’re very proud of our traditions at CYC. November includes the celebration of two of our most treasured events: the Annual Meeting and Change of Watch
The Code of Regulations of CYC dictates that an annual meeting of the stockholders shall occur “…on the second Friday of November.” That meeting is the most important event of the year, as the stockholders elect new trustees to join the Board in the leadership of our club. That same evening, the newly elected board votes for and chooses a new Fleet Captain. Three years later that person is destined to become our new Commodore.
As every member of CYC knows, “we love our Commodore,” which we sing loudly at the end of every event. To add further excitement to that evening, we discover who was elected as Fleet Captain. The Vice Commodore traditionally announces the new Fleet Captain’s identity by arriving at an after-party, where he kisses the cheek of the spouse of the newly elected person.
One week later, tradition calls for the members of CYC to join one another in attending the Change of Watch ball. This event is a celebration of the new leadership of our club. The night begins with members arriving, where they are greeted with a bubbly drink to help celebrate the evening. They then proceed to a receiving line made up of our new Flag Line and the Past Commodore. The leadership is honored as our members proceed through the line and offer their good wishes. The members, dressed to the nines in formal wear, enjoy an hour of cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Following the cocktail party, the members proceed upstairs to a gourmet meal featuring our chef’s most creative culinary offerings. During the evening, the Past Commodore introduces and honors the newly elected Flag Line, Commodore, and the rest of the leadership team. The Past Commodore awards trophies to winners of the Yachtsman of the Year, Power Boater of the Year and Family of the Year. Finally, the new Commodore is allowed the opportunity to take the podium and to thank our Past Commodore for a wonderful year. The new Commodore then officially opens the rest of the evening to dance, celebration and camaraderie.
Yes, we love our Commodore and our 146 years of traditions. Please join the celebration of our outstanding years of excellence by securing your reservation to this year’s premier events.
CYC History Committee
P/C Lynn Lazzaro, P/C Jack Salisbury, P/C David Evans
Erin Abel
Erin and husband Alexander have three children. The family recently moved to Rocky River and looks forward to socializing with friends and having family dinners at CYC.
Sponsors: Lucine Mohan & Randall Gay
A Power Boat Counselor at CYC, Liam is joining as a Legacy Member and is the fourth generation of his family to join here.
The Wet Hens have enjoyed an amazing fall. Here are photos of Ruth Pangrace, bringing the best of Julia Child to life, and a recent pumpkin paddle.
Wet Hens Board Openings. Would you like to get more involved with Wet Hens? We need new board members for 2025. Meet new friends! Contact Gail Cudak at 216-389-1229 or gcudak@gmail. com.
Wet Hens Dinners are on the second Wednesdays of each month. Don’t miss the next one on November 13. Cocktails are 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. and dinner is at 7:30 p.m. RSVP to CYC.
Pathfinders. Every Friday at 10 a.m. is Pathfinders. Get out of the house and walk approximately two to three miles with friends. Locations and leaders vary. Contact Peg Indermaur pegindermaur@ cox.net or Deb Wadden wadden.deb@ gmail.com to get on the email list.
Stitch N Bitch. We meet on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. Please note the slighter later start time versus last year. Bring whatever needlework project or sewing chore you have and a mug for tea. We will sit around the fire and share conversation, ideas and snacks while drinking our tea and working on our projects. Look forward to seeing you there!
Questions? Contact Cathy Wilton Bransch at cwiltonbransch@yahoo.com.
Sponsors: Rear Commodore Philip Slaght & Lee Stacey
Follow CYC Wet Hens on Facebook @Wet Hens CYC Instagram @cyc_wet_hens
Check out the Wet Hens Newsletter at cycwethens.blogspot.com. All committee chairs’ contact info are at the bottom of the newsletter, which can be accessed using the QR Code.
—Gail Cudak, Wet Hens Chair
Calling all Past Commodores’ wives...enjoy the Annual Tree Trimming on Tuesday, December 3, at 6:30 p.m. Drinks and snacks will be provided.
—Lisa Cruse
Join us on Thursday, December 5. The lighting will be at 6:30 p.m. sharp on the front lawn of the clubhouse. Commodore Christian and Maureen Tracey will hit the switch to light the tree. Bring your family down for the unveiling of the buoy tree and enjoy cookies, hot cocoa and burger night buffet for $12 per person. Reservations are required for dinner.
Get your jingle on at the Ladies Champagne Dinner on Wednesday, December 11, with cocktails at 5:30 and dinner at 6:30 p.m. We honor our Past Commodores’ wives, while having a little bubbly and camaraderie with the great ladies of CYC. This year’s entertainment is The Ohio City Singers, the holiday party band. Make your online reservations early, as this anticipated evening will be a full house.
—Stacey Clevenger
kids’ buffet. Santa Claus and goodies will be at Center Isle.
Reservations online only open on November 21 at 9 a.m. No phone calls, please.
—Commodore Christian and Maureen Tracey
Don’t miss the Yuletide performances on Thursday, December 12, at 8 p.m. during regular a la carte dinner and a Burger Night Buffet for $12 per person; and Sunday, December 15, at 1 p.m. We will have a Brunch Buffet from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. for the Sunday concert. Cost is $32 for adults and $17 for kids. Double your enjoyment this holiday season and join the Chorus. Call P/C Chuck Inglefield 216-374-6401.
This time-honored tradition takes place on Tuesday, December 24, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Surrounded by family and friends, cheer the season with a fine meal and all the trimmings. Make reservations online beginning November 8 at 9 a.m. Cost is $47 for adults and $17 for kids.
—Kari Caruso
This shop-till-ya-drop event returns on Friday, December 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. You’ll find a variety of local vendors and tasty hors d’oeuvres while browsing on both floors of the clubhouse. There will be no a la carte dining this evening. Babysitting will be available at Center Isle starting at 5 p.m.
Don’t miss this festive brunch on Sunday, December 8, with seatings at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Buffet is $32 for adults and $17 for children. After brunch, head down to Center Isle for hot cocoa, Christmas cookies and pictures with Santa. Make reservations online, starting November 13 at 9 a.m.
Calling all Santas! On Saturday, December 14, the Santa Claus Pub Crawl will be held at 2 p.m. sharp. Meet at Center Isle. Buses leave at 2:30 p.m. Don’t forget to dress the part and bring your holiday cheer! Make reservations online starting November 15 at 9 a.m. Cost is $75 per person, includes a Jello shot on the bus, two drinks at each bar, transportation and food at the bars. Food and drinks are available for purchase at Center Isle after the Pub Crawl. —Ryan Krivosh
Hop aboard on Monday, December 16, or Tuesday, December 17! The trolley leaves promptly every half hour from 5 to 8 p.m. Cost is $38 for the adult buffet and $17 for
On December 31, 8 p.m. Hey, All You Cool Cats! Get ready to swing into the New Year at our fancy adults-only 50s pajama party. Slip on your jazzy jammies and join us for a night of rockin’ tunes from our hip DJ, fortune telling with our psychic, and scrumptious snacks and good vibes. You can also enjoy regular dinner specials this night starting at 5 p.m. Reservations online. —Mark and Whitney Callahan
Please note: Due to the demand for reservations for club events, all cancellations with less than 72 hours’ notice will be charged in full.
—Jason and Lindsey Smith
Enjoy a traditional holiday dinner with all the special touches.
Reservations are every half hour from 1-3 p.m.
Cost is $45 for adults and $17 for children. Make reservations online.
Family Night Dinner Specials for $10 are every Wednesday. Don’t miss a bubble performer, on Wednesday, November 20, at 6:30 p.m. in the Lounge.
Thursday Burger Nights—Thursdays beginning November 7 from 5-8:30 p.m. Cost is $8 for Beef Burgers, Impossible Burgers and Chicken Sandwiches, and includes bottomless fries for the table. We will have a toppings and sauce bar, and add-ons such as cheese, caramelized mushrooms and onions; bacon and fried eggs will be available.
Saturday Pizza Nights—In addition to the regular dinner menu, we will offer a pizza menu every Saturday starting November 9. The menu will include a variety of toppings and a gluten-free option too!
Fridays starting November 1 (location TBD based on events) from 5-9:30 p.m. Cost is $20 per child ages 2 and up who are potty trained; price includes buffet. Members only. Please note there will not be babysitting on Friday, November 8.
On November 30, Center Isle opens at 11 a.m. with kick-off at noon. Join us for Bloody Marys, beers, buffet. Enjoy the game inside Center Isle or move outdoors with televisions, tailgate games and fire pits (weather permitting). Reservations required. Price is $25 per person.
Get in the holiday spirit in the Commodores’ Bar on Fridays and Saturdays in
December at 5 p.m. Specialty drink menu and regular a la carte dinner menu is available.
Starting Wednesday, December 4, Igloos will be available Wednesday through Sunday after 5 p.m. for a maximum of 8 people. We will offer the regular dinner menu and drinks. There is a $150 spending minimum. Call Emily Coletta for reservations.
Don’t miss the fabulous new specialty drink menu, featuring James Bond Vesper Martini, Pumpkin Pie Martini and Good Night Kiss Martini.