GROSSE POINTER FALL EDITION

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GROSSE POINTER

GROSSE POINTE YACHT CLUB

Established 1914

JANUARY-JUNE 2019

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Grosse Pointe: (313) 885-6095 Scottsdale: (480) 443-5717 LegacyWealthManagementGroup.biz Senior Vice President – Investments

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Anna Swartz aswartz@gpyc.org

Editor

Publisher Towar Productions 19803 Mack Avenue Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236 313.882.0702 www.towar.com Advertising Director

Kim Towar kim@towar.com

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Stephanie Lortt stephanie@towar.com

Writers Mary Fannon Kerri Manos Past Commodore James Ramsey Shelley Yorke Rose Dr. Larry Stephenson Anna Swartz Kelley Vreeken Skye Vreeken Peter Wendzinski

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Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Y

Established 1914

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Table of Contents Message From Commodore Ilja Vreeken Welcome New Members

6 7-11

Grand Opening of State-of-the-Art Fitness Center

13

Dock Cocktail Party GPYC Honors Top Bowlers for 2018-2019

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46-47

Derby High Tea

48

16-17

Downtown Bar Crawl

48

Quality Meats, Produce in GPYC Kitchen

18-20

Mother’s Day

49

Ram Dinner

21

Great Lakes Boating Festival Weekend

Fashion Show

22

GPYNEF Scholarship Recipients

Fairway Packing Dinner

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Fisher Wine Dinner

Club’s Paddle Tennis Facility

26

Memorial Day Weekend

Winter Festival

27

Little Club Rendezvous

Wine 101

28

Pointe Club Rooftop Party

Valentine’s Dinner

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Model of Tashmoo Gifted to GPYC

Breakfast with the Manager

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Smoked Meats 101

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50-51 52 53 54-56 57 58 59-60

Back to the Club Party

30-31

In-Harbor Rendezvous

61

Discussion Pointes

32-33

Father’s Day

62

America’s Cup Sailor and Commentator

34-36

Ladies-Only Rooftop Party

All Things European

37 38-39

Easter Wreaths Class for Tweens Easter Bunny Brunch

40 40-41

Summer Solstice Party Summer Regatta

63 64-65 66

Junior Sailing Program

67-69

GPYC Sailfish

70-71

Easter Brunch and Dinner

42

Member Spotlight

72-73

Prisoner Wine Dinner

43

Looking Aft

Little Chefs Cooking Class

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788 Lake Shore Road Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 (313) 884-2500 FAX: (313) 884-7956 www.gpyc.org

The Grosse Pointer (USPS 576-940) is published two times a year under contract with the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. Subscriptions are $75 per year to members. Periodical postage paid at Detroit, Michigan. Postmaster, send address changes to: The Grosse Pointer, 788 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236.

Grosse Pointe Yacht Club ©2019—all rights reserved. This publication is the property of the GPYC, for member use only. No unauthorized use, sale or dissemination of information herein shall be made for commercial, personal or other purposes, without the written permission of the GPYC.

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Philanthropy Programs Allow for Restoration/Amenities

Marine Corps Mess Night

Photographers Erik Campos Michele Penoyer Jim Dorian Jeffrey Sauger Thomas Kliber Christine Semmler John F. Martin Rob Widdis

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Please note the following corrections from the MarchDecember 2018 issue of The Grosse Pointer: The name of Brian Dailey’s wife is Jill, not Jacqueline. (p. 20) Former GPYC employee Angela Boyd is incorrectly referred to as the last name “Gates.” (p. 30) Joe Hooge began his career at GPYC in 1978, not 1987. (p. 34)

Cover Photo by Thomas Kilber

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A MESSAGE FROM YOUR COMMODORE

Photography by John F. Martin

Ilja Vreeken Reflects on His Year as Commodore

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ow! This year has flown by, and it is time for me to step down as your Commodore. There is so much to say as the year concludes and so many people I want to thank.

I would like to highlight just a few tangible accomplishments this past year from the building of a fitness center, renovating the Grog Shop, to harbor upgrades like the addition of entry buoys, dock risers and a new Gas Dock shed. While Mother Nature gave us record high water levels, we were one of the few harbors in Lake St. Clair to remain completely operational this summer. We upgraded the quality of Club services with a new larger pizza oven, improved Wi-Fi, new dining chairs and our GPYC mobile app.

a record 161 sailors this season taking home flag honors in every regatta and the Sailfish Swim Team had over 85 participants, successfully moving up to Upper “Blue” Tier of the MICSA League for 2020!

The Board and Management is proud to report being operationally profitable while aggressively paying down debt and creating a dedicated Harbor fund.

The above is a testament to this Board, our dedicated committees and management’s adherence to the strategic plan, remaining dynamic and being responsive to membership feedback. It is also a testament to previous Board and committee Commodore Ilja Vreeken leaders whose vision and commitment to our Club’s mission was instrumental in many of the successes involved in some capacity as it was instrumental in achieved. making Kelley and me feel like a part of our Club Equally important are the intangible changes that family. are underway. The Club’s improving culture reflects I am grateful for my Board colleagues, Club our commitment to a welcoming atmosphere management, our committee members and staff.

I want to congratulate Gary Gonzalez and his wife and building strong bonds of friendship among They are some of the most dedicated individuals I Christine on becoming your next Commodore members. Non-discounted initiation and dues, have had the pleasure to work with. I believe we and Lady. I have had the pleasure of having Gary elevating the service experience and rededicating have held true in becoming a Club for All Seasons alongside me on the Board and can’t think of a ourselves to our nautical heritage, has increased our and elevating the cache of the Grosse Pointe Yacht more suitable person to take the helm.

Club membership esprit de corps.

Club. In the monthly communications, I tried to highlight the many member contributions which Finally, I would like to thank and acknowledge the Thank you members for the record attendance go largely unrecognized and I would like to thank tremendous amount of time and effort my wife, at almost every social and athletic event. Our them all again for their support. Getting to know membership, which has grown to levels not seen the many staff has been a pleasure – I am humbled Kelley, invested in supporting me and this Club.

This year was truly a team effort, and I am thankful in many years, was able to enjoy increased hours by their graciousness and efforts to go above and of service, more healthy food options and added beyond their job descriptions. We can all be proud for her support. amenities from sports activities to informative guest of our Club staff.

Thank you for inviting me to be your Commodore, presentations.

Through this experience, I have made lifelong Ilja J. Vreeken Thank you to our member kids - Junior Sailing had friends and encourage every member to get

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WELCOME ABOARD

New Members: January - June 2019

Photography by John F. Martin

January

Gloria and Jason Hinz

Julie and James Comer

February

Diane and Karl Kratz

John and Roseann Donaldson

James Mestdagh Jr.

Jeffrey Gates

Colleen and Adam Yeloushan

Tobias Keller and Wendy Michalski

Jim and Adriana Angelidis

David Parnell and Samantha Schneider

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WELCOME ABOARD

March

John and Jennifer Parnell

Steven and Kathryn (not pictured) Wereley

Dmitri Zhuk and Yasmin Habib

Christopher Bailey

Kevin and Stephanie Butler

Jason Huvaere

Todd and Lisha Kilgus Reinstatement

April

Matthew and Alicia LaBeau Reinstatement

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Nicole and Andy Anderson

Stephen and Hollis Griffin

WELCOME ABOARD

May

Andrew and Kathryn (not pictured) Walton

John and Mary (not pictured) Cueter

Stephen and Suzanne Wheatley Reinstatement

Melissa Erdman and Jeffrey Jarzombek Reinstatement

Christine and Terry Yakuber

John and Julie Gallant

Timothy and Jana Zilli Reinstatement

Pat and Pamela Cohan

Betsy Gebeck Reinstatement

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WELCOME ABOARD

June

Judy and Thomas McHugh

Kenneth and Linda (not pictured) Meade Reinstatement

Charlie and Katie Tompkins

Bob Weiland

Sandra and Richard Adamo

Jennifer Adlhoch Reinstatement

Sheila & Robert Crandall

Renee and Richard Dwyer

Maya and Alan Faber

Jonathan and Ann Hawkins

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WELCOME ABOARD

Sara and James MacConnachie

Mathew O’Laughlin and Jillian Schmuhl

Jennifer and Scott Reizen

Christopher Schebil

John and Meredith (not pictured) Shanle Reinstatement

No Photos Available

Kristyn and Jared Slanec Reinstatement

Karl Sooy

Gerald and Alicia (not pictured) Topolinski Reinstatement

Marsha Fontanive (reinstatement) Scott and Suzette Kapla Steven and Pamela Kocsis Alex and Courtney Martusiewicz

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“” The great use

of life is to spend it for something that will outlast it.

— William James

LIVE UP TO THE LEGACY OF THE GROSSE POINTE YACHT CLUB. ENSURE THE PRESERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF OUR CLUB FOR GENERATIONS TO COME. To make a donation, contact General Manager Aaron Wagner (313) 884-2500, Ext. 701

GROSSE POINTE YACHT CLUB

CENTENNIAL FUND

GROSSE POINTE YACHT CLUB

FOUNDATION

GPYC FEATURE

GPYC Celebrates Grand Opening of State-of-the-Art Fitness Center

By Fitness Director Peter Wendzinski

The Fitness Center, which is housed in the former accounting office space on the south side of the n the evening of June 20, 2019, the Clubhouse, is a state-of-the-art facility with Founders Club gathered to celebrate the immaculate equipment. The Club has three first-ever Fitness Center at the Grosse treadmills, two Pelotons, two Ellipticals, one Pointe Yacht Club. It was an event held to thank all the wonderful donors who made this dream a reality. recumbent elliptical, squat rack equipped with a smith machine, bench press and pull-up bar, Having a gym will undoubtedly turn the club into a free weights, barbells, leg curl, cable machine, battle ropes, medicine balls, physio balls, BOSU ball, TRX, kettle-bells, mats, foam rollers, and resistance bands. Boot camp, personal training and yoga are also offered.

The gym is free for members, and classes are an additional charge.

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Members were officially able to access the gym Fitness Director Peter Wendzinski with members (L-R) Erica Panagopoulos and Courtney after the grand opening Drummy in the Club’s first-ever Fitness Center of the center on August 15.

To gain access to the Fitness Center, you simply year-round destination for members to enjoy even punch in “0” followed by your four-digit member during the cold Michigan winters. number. Hours of operation are from 5 a.m.-10 p.m., seven days per week. You must be “The first question I had was, ‘How much is this at least 16 years of age, and children between 13-15 going to cost me as a member?’ And the answer are allowed access if they are working out with a is, it is part of your membership,” Director and Athletics Committee Chairman Bruce Knapp said. member of the GPYC fitness staff.

“This fitness center is available to you as a member, The Fitness Center also offers childcare Monday so if you’re over at some fitness center locally and paying $100 a month, perhaps you won’t need to do through Friday from 3:30- 7 p.m. The cost is $5 per child and they must be potty-trained. that anymore.”

Please visit me in the Fitness Center with any questions, or email pwendzinski@gpyc.org.

Photography by John F. Martin

L-R: Fitness Director Peter Wendzinski and Athletics Committee Chairman Bruce Knapp

L-R: Mariann Simon, Judy Ness, Joanna Izzi, Cathy Champion Killebrew and Yan Ness at the Founders Club gathering in June

L-R: Philip and Elyse Trupiano with Amy Krueger Malow at the Founders Club gathering in June

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GPYC FEATURE Photography by Jim Dorian

Philanthropy Programs Allow for Continued Restoration and Added Amenities

By Kerri Manos

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ust as GPYC’s founding members came together to provide funds for the building of the clubhouse, today’s membership continues to provide financial support to ensure that our historic Clubhouse and grounds will be enjoyed for generations to come. Under the umbrella of the Founder’s Club, two Philanthropy Programs have been strategically created to encourage member support – The Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Foundation (tax deductible) and The Centennial Fund (non-tax deductible).

renovations include a new Fitness Center, teen area in the Fo’c’sle and new walking surfaces to Hickory, Moby, Gas, Bridge and East Wall Docks.

Additionally, new pin setters in the Bowling Recreation Center have replaced outdated ones.

Other major acquisitions include: • New awning over the Grog Shop • Added Wine Cellar lockers • A smoker grill to increase menu options • Entrance buoys in the harbor to improve safety • New digital swim team record board in time for the upcoming MICSA finals to be held at the GPYC

The Foundation is an independent 501(c)3 organization dedicated to preserving the Clubhouse. Since 2015, the GPYC has been listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

The Foundation has been established to receive tax-deductible donations for the preservation, rehabilitation, restoration and reconstruction of our historic structure.

The Centennial Fund was established to receive gifts directed toward the Club campus and harbor for strategically selected projects as planned by the Board of Directors and through member survey results. Completed projects have included the harbor renovation, Marine Activity Center and Family Recreation Center.

Since the formation of the Club’s Philanthropy Programs (both the Centennial Fund and the Foundation), $2,600,000 has been raised. The

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• Complete refurbishment of the freight elevator, which is critical to Club operations.

• Kitchen has new fire sensor controls for added safety • Consolidated key staff by building new accounting offices.

• Constructed a new employee break room in a more convenient location.

• Purchased a high capacity pizza oven and relocated the existing oven by the tennis courts.

However, our work is not yet done. The Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Foundation and Centennial Fund continue to vet possible future projects that would require fundraising. These include:

Providing a much-needed respite from sun on a hot summer day, the Grog Shop’s new awning, along with the tables underneath, gives the feeling of sitting at a waterfront café.

In addition to the larger projects mentioned above, additional less glamorous but equally significant items include: • New Binnacle seating as part of a club-wide chair replacement project.

The new state of the art Fitness Center has recently opened, and all Club members are welcome to enjoy its facilities.

Whether you are training toward a specific target or simply staying active, the GPYC Fitness Center has something for you—including snacks to refuel after your work out.

Personal training services are also available to help you reach your goals.

GPYC FEATURE • Completion of Harbor renovation including addressing any high-water related items • Gazebo Bar expansion with additional shade options • Projects to enhance our historic clubhouse.

Exterior and interior (window replacement, roof upgrades, outside painting & decorating) • Expansion of the Family Recreation Center to include a larger covered area, a bar, and a food and refreshment counter • Renovation of front driveway, bollards, campus lighting • Optimizing rooftop areas, where feasible, to enhance member entertainment options • Expanding the outdoor dining area of the Binnacle • Refurbishing our historically relevant and critical moat bridge • Creating a Heritage Walk to highlight our Club’s deep history for all to enjoy

Swimming is a time-honored tradition at the GPYC. A new digital swim team record board helps us dive into the modern age of keeping track of scores, times and Club records.

If you would like to join fellow members in preserving and continually improving our Club, please contact General Manager Aaron Wagner at awagner@gpyc.org or (313) 884-2500, ext. 701.

The Hickory, Moby, Gas, Bridge and East Wall Docks have been re-skinned and are now outfitted with all new walking surfaces. Not only are they pleasing to the eye, but they continue our tradition of water safety. Furthermore, as you reach the end of the Gas Dock, you will notice the reconstructed gas shed.

The beautifully updated Bowling Recreation Center now includes new pin setters. Bowlers will be able to spend more time honing their craft and socializing with friends, and less time worrying about their game being interrupted due to mechanical issues.

Teens can now relax in a place designed especially for them—the all-new teen area located in the Fo’c’sle.

Featuring flat screen televisions, Xbox gaming systems, and durable furniture, there’s no better place to kick back and relax with friends.

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GPYC FEATURE Photos courtesy of Colby Newman

Quality Meats, Produce are Top Priority in the GPYC Kitchen Trips to Ohio Allow for Further Education about Traceability & Consistency

Newman, traveling with vendors is beneficial, not only because they pay for the trip, but they also gather information such as product pricing and availability. “There’s a lot more to it than going to a farm and saying, ‘I want that chicken,’ he says. “It’s important to note that the support from these local companies is what makes this all happen.”

By Anna Swartz

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self-declared “nerd” when it comes to the topic of ensuring that the Club receives the best meat and produce possible, Executive Chef Colby Newman says that the keywords are “traceability” and “consistency.” Knowing the harvesting process for lettuce or being able to look at a package of chicken and know exactly when the egg hatched – this is the sort of intimate knowledge

All Chickens are not Created Equal

The group first visited a Gerber’s Amish Farm chicken facility. As the name implies, these birds are raised by the Amish community and come from farms within 50 miles of the facility. These aren’t just any chickens. In the 50-some days it takes for them to grow into a full-sized bird, they are fed a 100 percent vegetarian diet, with no antibiotics ever.

Seeing the phrase “no antibiotics ever” is

GPYC Executive Chef Colby Newman and Executive Sous Chef Domonique Morello with a half cow at Certified Angus Beef LLC

Certified Angus Beef family farm

would allow him to learn more about where his food comes from, he packed his bags and headed to Wooster, Ohio. Known for its large Amish population and extensive agriculture, this city houses a poultry processing plant, an expansive hydroponic greenhouse, Certified Angus Beef (CAB) LLC, and a CAB farm.

Chef Colby seeks out when selecting vendors.

So, when the Club’s month-long 2019 annual winter shutdown commenced, and vendors were offering to foot the bill for Newman to visit facilities that

Newman, along with Executive Sous Chef Domonique Morsello and two representatives from vendor Northern Haserot, drove to northeastern Ohio late one night. According to

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A black angus cow from a Certified Angus Beef Farm in Ohio

GPYC FEATURE commonplace in grocery stores, but many don’t understand exactly what this label means for farmers. “If there is an infected chicken, the entire flock is out because it’s been exposed,” Newman says. “They take the entire flock and move it to a different location and cannot use that label once slaughtered.” According to Gerber Poultry, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) allows chickens to have antibiotics within the first two days of life while still receiving the “no antibiotics” label. However, Gerber never allows their chickens to receive antibiotics.

What exactly did they do while visiting the Gerber’s processing plant? They watched the slaughtering process. While dismembering a bird may not sound like most people’s idea of an enjoyable field trip, Newman was mesmerized. “This place was phenomenal. It was so clean and humane,” he says.

“With the help of a camera, the birds are checked for imperfections and weighed, and then the meat is sent down the right chutes for packaging.”

All of this is done mechanically. “They could cut the bird into eight pieces in two seconds flat,” Newman said, noting that more machines and less people is the trend for any kind of food production.

“Everything is mechanical because of the challenge of hiring and keeping employees. This place used to employ 20 to 30 people, and now only two people manage that machine.”

Not everyone on the tour shared Chef Colby’s enthusiasm -- about half the people on their tour left the building. “It’s 75 degrees, water is spraying everywhere, and of course, there’s blood.”

Companies like Gerber Poultry are exactly the sort of places Newman purchases his chicken from, through local vendors. The main reason is

Certified Angus Beef family farm

traceability. “I could pick up a package of their chicken, and I could find out the exact minute or day it was hatched at a particular farm. In the food industry, this is huge, especially with the outbreaks of different things not only in produce, but in meats.”

best of the best “very scientific” seeds, ones sourced from Europe. Within 3-5 days, these seeds sprout, and the process begins. When finished trays are moved, new ones automatically slide forward, so the plants are rotated slowly during the growing process.

“We are getting literally the best product we can get, and it’s always a ‘Never Ever Chicken’ -- no antibiotics and vegetarian fed -- regardless of the vendor I go through.”

One of the most impressive parts of this process is that once the plant sprouts, it is literally only touched once -- with only one person’s gloved hand taking it out of the tray. “With greens especially, and outbreaks of salmonella, for example, the traceability is 150 perecent important right now,” Newman says. Lettuce from a greenhouse like this is very safe to eat, because of the minimal amount of human interference and the impossibility of infecting or polluting the plant.

Hydroponic Greenhouse – Top-Notch Produce, No Dirt Required

Not far from Gerber’s Poultry was the GPYC group’s next stop -- an 80,000-square-foot state-ofthe-art hydroponic greenhouse called Great Lakes Growers. A large reverse osmosis filtration system purifies the water, which then continuously flows to reach the plants without the need for dirt. Throughout the facility, Newman says, about 30 young Amish men and women worked carefully -- half of them starting the seed trays and the others working on production.

According to Newman, these companies start with the

An added bonus is that these types of living plants are picked with their roots intact, allowing them to stay fresh in a fridge for several weeks. Along with Great Lakes Gowers’ innovative preservation skills, they have been mixing their special seeds to create new vegetables. For instance, they have created something called “hurricane lettuce,” a mix of

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GPYC FEATURE

Quality Meats, Produce Continued

Part of an 80,000 square-foot hydrophonic greenhouse, Great Lakes Growers, in Wooster, Ohio

Iceberg and Romaine. “They can’t keep up with the demand for these new mixes,” Newman said.

Certified Angus Beef – What is it Exactly?

A second trip, also in Wooster, Ohio, took Newman and Morsello to Certified Angus Beef LLC, as well as to a Certified Angus Beef (CAB) farm, for continuing education through GPYC’s vendor, Sysco. When discussing what exactly CAB means, Newman’s passion for understanding the complexities of the quality and cuts of meat is clear.

This is why he, Morsello and other chefs gladly found themselves in a meat locker for 10 hours.

During their time in the meat locker, meat scientists literally broke down a half CAB prime cow -- ribeye, skirt steak, flank steak, etc. At the end, all the cuts of meat were displayed on the table (and used the next day for a friendly team cooking competition). “All of this is not as easy as it sounds, because you need some really big equipment,” Newman says. “The half cow is about 1,200 pounds.

We all took turns participating with the butchering process. One of the meat scientists I knew from my last job at a club. These scientists can literally tell

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you everything -- from how to grade the cuts of meat to the quality, what the animal ate and what it didn’t. They have so much detailed knowledge.”

The goal of GPYC staff ’s visit was to better understand CAB. In order to meet this envied classification (one in 50 cattle are CAB), beef growers need to raise black angus cattle on a CAB certified farm. These cows also have to meet 10 strict science-based specifications in categories such as marbling, maturity (cattle harvested younger than 30 months of age), consistent sizing, quality appearance and tenderness. The meat is also then still USDA graded select, choice or prime (the most preferred).

The consistent sizing of CAB is very attractive for chefs. “For instance, if I buy my ribeye for prime rib, I don’t want four different sizes,” Newman says. “If I get CAB, they will be almost exactly the same size.”

Chef Colby also discussed marbling: “It’s not the amount of fat in the actual steak that makes it better or worse. It’s how the fat is distributed throughout the steak. Too much in one area makes it grisly and chewy. That same fat distributed throughout – branding them off those 10 steps, it assures you that, at the end, you’ll have a CAB cow.”

Speaking of marbling -- on the second day of the trip, Newman had what he calls an “extremely unique experience” at a CAB family-owned farm. “A lady at the farm shaved a small area on a year-old bull’s back, put on some olive oil, and then used a legitimate old school ultrasound to view the marbling of the meat.

We could see this because the ribeye is right on the back. That was fascinating.”

In terms of traceability, many of these CAB farms

are owned by the same family for three generations.

This particular farm was owned by a young family, with their parents also living on the property, along with a farm dog named Murphy. These are the kinds of farms that chefs like Newman love to support. “These guys work round the clock, I mean round the clock,” Newman says. “The only time they get a vacation is when they are moving cows and selling them.”

What Does All This Mean for the Club?

What is Chef Colby going to do with the information he learned on these trips? “I want to ensure that our product is coming from the right place – from an area that is traceable and consistent.”

As Newman said, the Club purchases all natural, vegetarian fed chicken with no antibiotics ever – and these birds are also traceable. And with produce, he orders from vendors who ensure safe practices and a consistently good product.

As for the beef? While he does order CAB for weddings, he hasn’t yet rolled it out for the a la carte menus. “I’m trying to work on an all-natural beef program for the Club, and it’s very, very hard,” Newman says. “If I were to set up a program for CAB prime, it would be a lot more expensive. It will take a while to understand if the program will work and then slowly incorporate it into our daily use.”

Regardless of what the future holds regarding CAB prime as a staple in the Club’s kitchen, one thing is certain -- every produce truck and meat delivery that shows up at the GPYC is there because the vendor’s best practices allow the Club to ensure traceability and consistency. And the Club has a nerd to thank for it.

GPYC FEATURE Photos courtesy of Paul Mattes

Chef Colby, Member Paul Mattes Team Up for Unique Ram Dinner

By Mary Fannon

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PYC member Paul Mattes and Executive Chef Colby Newman are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to the gathering and cooking of extravagant meats. While Mattes was travelling in Mexico in January 2019, he had a unique opportunity to hunt the LaPalmosa Ranch located in the Chihuahaun Mountains. The successful hunt yielded a ram, and Mattes decided to work with Chef Colby to create a special meal

for his hunting mates. He brought the game back to the States and handed it over to our talented Chef Colby Neman who, along with his team, crafted a luxurious five-course dinner.

“Mr. Mattes really took trust in me and my staff to do some research and let our creative juices flow,” Chef Colby said. He adds that alongside himself and his team, Mattes worked as a collaborator, bouncing ideas off each other, ending their flavor journey in a delicious curry Ram Ravioli and Ram Loin. With the help of Food and Beverage Director Joe Hooge, their meal was respectfully complemented with Celani wines, which “added to the great experience.”

Both Mattes and Chef Colby “had a blast exploring” the different flavors that ram could offer. “I’m pretty sure he was as excited to pull together the dinner as I was at getting the ram,” Mattes said. “I’d highly recommend utilizing the wine cellar, Chef Colby, Joe and the rest of the GPYC staff for any special event you have in mind.”

GPYC member Paul Mattes

Ram Ravioli was on the specially created menu for the Mattes wine cellar dinner.

Paul Mattes (center) worked with Executive Chef Colby Newman to create a unique dining experience featuring a ram he shot while hunting in Mexico.

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by Jeffrey Sauger

Fashion Show Showcases Latest Trends – from Black Tie to Activewear

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he Icy Hot! Ladies Fashion Show on January 9, 2019 was the perfect post-holidays pick-me-up. The latest winter fashions – including Every Day, Black Tie, Sportswear and Furs – by DAWOOD Boutique of Grosse Pointe were seen on the catwalk. Many of the models were GPYC members, which made the event even more memorable. Fox 2 Fashion Expert Maria Dasaro hosted the show. The event was accompanied by a four-course meal by Executive Chef Colby Newman and paired wine by Food and Beverage Director Joe Hooge.

Hadley Gordon

Karina Nahra Mary Lamparter

Debbie Snethkamp

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Leah Mannino

L-R: Carol Klenow and Priscilla Schaupeter

MEMBER SCENE

Fairway Packing Dinner

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f you’ve been to Detroit’s Eastern Market, you may not have noticed the non-descript building that houses Fairway Packing Company – but if you dine at the Club, you’ve likely eaten steak, pork or lamb that was processed at the facility. Executive Chef Colby Newman says that the company is an in-demand supplier in the area, and for good reason. These top-quality meats are received, broken down and distributed by trusted second generation owners.

“We have a great relationship with Fairway,”

L-R: Marita Grobbel, Krista Riehl and Liz Rader

L-R: Executive Sous Chef Domonique Morsello, Executive Chef Colby Newman and Emmett Baratta from Fairway Packing Company

Photography by John F. Martin

Newman said. “So we decided to team up for a dinner here at the Club. We brought in some pretty cool quality cuts of meat for it. It was a really awesome experience.”

The January 17 four-course dinner kicked off with Amuse Bouche, a bison tartare hors d’oeuvre, and ended with Foie Gras Crème Brulee. The courses included Pork Belly, Oxtail Ravioli, Veal Sweetbreads and Wagyu Strip. Wines pairings were included.

But the delectable food wasn’t the only highlight of the event, Emmett Baratta of Fairway spoke to the

group about their entire operation – from where the meat comes from to how it ends up on the table.

Since the sold-out dinner was such a success, Newman is already talking about a repeat event.

“Next time I would love to take groups of people down to Fairway to take tours of the facility,” he said.

Pork Belly with Spiced Herb Broth

L-R: Chris Izzi, Past Commodore Bob Rader, Richard Shetler, Mike Riehl and Brian Fish

Oxtail Ravioli with Red Wine Pasta Dough and an Acorn Squash Puree

L-R: Bobby and Nadya Nahra with Melissa and Jonathan Zube

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

A Spotlight on the Club’s Paddle Tennis Facility

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id you know that GPYC features one of the premier places to play Paddle Tennis in the state? This extremely social game “is a great way to get an extra racquet fix during the dark days of winter,” according to GPYC Tennis Pro Dimitri Diakonov. That’s why the GPYC hosted a Paddle Tennis Launch Party in January to introduce the highly energetic sport to new players. A highlight of the event was a match between Diakonov and General Manager Aaron Wagner and Blake and Jordan Ellis. “We had a great match,” Diakonov said. “We learned a lot from our loss and hope to avenge it next year.”

If you haven’t checked out the Club’s paddle tennis courts yet, consider it a fun way to get active during this winter. “It’s a total riot to play since hitting off the walls creates a new dynamic that tennis can’t offer,” Diakonov says.

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L-R: Brian Fish, Ian MacLachlan, General Manager Aaron Wagner

L-R: Blake Ellis, Colleen Blake, Amy Schaden and Jordan Ellis

MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Courtney Drummy, Molly Early and Erica Panagopoulos

Photography by Christine Semmler

Winter Festival

Teen Winter Festival fun in the Bowling Recreation Center

L-R: David Paschke, Marina Southers, Gina Paschke, Alicia Bonahoom, Paul Mattes,

L-R: Mary Weiland, Robert Weiland, Rebecca Weiland, Lauren and Ryan Gunderson

Emily Nelson and Christopher Soupal

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MEMBER SCENE

Michael Cregar

Wine 101

Photography by John F. Martin

Alicia Bonahoom and Paul Mattes

L-R: Kurt Vatalaro, Richard Shetler, Monica Palmer and Robin Vatalaro

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L-R: Larry Stephenson, Elli Giordimaina, Carol Stephenson and Michael Cregar

MEMBER SCENE

Kate Poirier with daughter Anderson

Monica Palmer, Reygan Lowery and Richard Shetler

Keith and Stacy Spondike

Valentine’s Dinner

General Manager Aaron Wagner

Breakfast with the Manager Keeping Club members informed about the latest GPYC happenings is a priority for General Manager Aaron Wagner. That’s why he hosts quarterly “Breakfast with the Manager” events, always on a Saturday morning from 9-10 a.m. The event is a great way to learn more about Club events, Cub management goals, completed and future improvements/renovations, financial updates and much more. The event always includes a presentation followed by a question and answer session. The $6 breakfast is available during these presentations.

Bud and Rene Cornillie with Past Commodore Jim and Patti Anderson (Photo courtesy of Kate Poirier)

Photography by John F. Martin

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MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Julie Granger, Diane Dossin, Past Commodore Kevin Granger and Doug Dossin

L-R: Kim Bourbeau, Erin Roberts, Mike Roberts and Elli Giordimaina

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L-R: Paul Lang and Past Commodore Mary Treder Lang with Tom and Marilyn Stephenson

MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Irish dance troupe from Ardan Academy

Back to the Club Party

L-R: John and Jennifer Parnell with Jillian Schmuhl and Matt O’Laughlin

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Discussion Pointes Series Kicked Off in Spring 2019

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he Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Discussion Pointes is a monthly forum where experts and opinion leaders examine a wide variety of topics including health, science, our community and other key issues that are important to our membership.

Health Coach Marielle Heidebrink March 27

2019’s ‘Discussion Pointes’ Series began with Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Marielle Heidebrink, who is also known as “The Detroit Health Coach” and specialist on individualized lifestyle recommendations. Marielle touched on topics such as the nuts and bolts of healthy eating, eating for increased energy and practical strategies for general well-being, and created an inspiration aura for good eating and exercising habits.

Integrative Nutrition Health Coach Marielle Heidebrink was the guest speaker at the March Discussion Pointes event.

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Members/Authors Gail Howe & Jason Grobbel April 10

In April, the GPYC was pleased to have author and illustrator of Rosaline’s Big Dream, Gail Howe, share her strengths and weaknesses when writing her award-winning book. Alongside her, author Jason Grobbel, divulged into his inspiration and true meaning behind his economic related book, Leading America Back to Work, Reimagining Today’s Workplace. Both authors left the crowd inspired and awed with what hard work had to be put forth when writing their successful books.

GPYC members/authors Gail Howe and Jason Grobbel

Keith Kompoltowicz of the United States Army Corps of Engineers spoke at the May March Discussion Pointes gathering.

MEMBER SCENE United States Army Corps of Engineers, Keith Kompoltowicz May 8

The Discussion Pointes Series continued in the month of May, with an informational discussion about Lake St. Clair and the Great Lakes. Keith Kompoltowicz from the US Army Corps of Engineers shared his insights on the water level forecasts and the factors that influence water level change.

Hi Ho Silva, owned by GPYC member Paul Silva, was once again the first vessel to arrive in the GPYC harbor this spring.

L-R: David Paschke, Matt Schaden, Paul Silva and David Schaden Photo courtesy of Alex Turner

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GPYC FEATURE Photography by John F. Martin

America’s Cup Sailor and Commentator Looks Forward to 2021 Competition

By Shelley Yorke Rose

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Tucker Thompson

hen Tucker Thompson was eight years old, his mother encouraged him to take his first sailing class. He went kicking and screaming, he recalls, but his mother bargained with him. “Try it for just one day,” she said. He did, and that day on a Sunfish on Delaware’s Rehoboth Bay set Thompson on a path that changed his life.

He discovered a sense of freedom and self-reliance on the water. Sailing proved to be his major focus, the true north of his internal compass.

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“I soon got into racing and realized I was pretty good at it around the age of 12,” Thompson remembers. “I was attracted to the competitive side of the sport and regattas took me all over the country and the world,” he said. “Because of sailing, I have met amazing people and realized my dream of crewing on an America’s Cup boat. I picked my high school and college because of their sailing programs. My total focus on sailing made life decisions easier.”

“So I’ve seen a lot of clubs and I have to say that I have never seen a more impressive facility or more incredible clubhouse than the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club; it looks like a castle! But equally impressive are the members – everyone I have met was terrific and their passion for the sport of sailing was clearly evident.”

- Tucker Thompson Tucker Thompson is a passionate sailor, TV host and producer, and announcer for the America’s Cup races. He is also in demand for public speaking, which provides him an opportunity to educate yacht club members and sailors all over the world about the America’s Cup’s history and heritage. His presentation at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club on March 22, 2019 did just that, while representing the New York Yacht Club American Magic team, the latest America’s Cup challenger. The American Magic crew is pursuing the 36th America’s Cup in Auckland, New Zealand in early 2021. The boat’s name is a composite of the first two boats to have ever won the America’s Cup – America (1851) and Magic (1870).

“During the year, I visit between 35-40 yacht clubs to talk about the America’s Cup and the exciting new American Magic boat being built by the New York Yacht Club,” Thompson said. “So I’ve seen a lot of clubs and I have to say that I have never seen a more impressive facility or more incredible clubhouse than the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club; it

GPYC FEATURE Photography by John F. Martin

looks like a castle! But equally impressive are the members – everyone I have met was terrific and their passion for the sport of sailing was clearly evident.” Thompson noted that the Club’s bowling alley was a first for him; no other club he’s seen has one.

Sailing can take you across the harbor or across the world. It can change your life. It changed mine.”

- Tucker Thompson

The almost identical names are just a (major) coincidence. Another coincidence - he later discovered that his middle name, Schuyler, dated back to ancestor George L. Schuyler, a member of the original syndicate that backed the first America’s Cup race in Cowes, England in 1851.

Thompson’s dream of sailing on an America’s Cup team came true in 2000 in Auckland, New Zealand.

His boat, America True, made it to the semi-finals but New Zealand’s NZL-60 emerged victorious.

His boat may not have won, but providing color

commentary for fans aboard the VIP boat when he was not crewing launched Thompson’s next career.

A lot has changed in the race since 1851 but the one constant is that the America’s Cup is primarily a design competition. While all teams build and race the same basic boat design (AC75 for 2021), they are allowed to explore some variations that yield innovations and surprises like the wing keel that the Australians used to win the 1983 cup, breaking the longest – 132-year – winning streak in a sports competition. The most dramatic changes can be seen in the new hydrofoil boats, introduced in 2013, that race at three to four times the speed of the wind. This time around, the AC75 is expected to exceed the speeds of the catamaran class, which was already doing 50 mph.

While in New Zealand, Thompson visited the storied schooner, the R. Tucker Thompson.

The 2021 America’s Cup will be the first time using monohull hydrofoils which will be “incredibly exciting to watch not only for speed, but it’s a complete handful for the sailors,” Thompson said.

These boats are fast, exciting, and more dangerous.

Safety is now a primary focus of the race since this game-changing technology requires additional protective gear to offset the danger inherent in these speedy sailboats.

“The fastest boat always wins,” Thompson observed.

“But just being fast is not enough. Sailors must outperform the competition within the confines of the match race rules. To harness the speed potential of these new boats means having the best sailors aboard. Winning demands strategy and outmaneuvering the competition.”

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GPYC FEATURE

America’s Cup Continued

finalizing their design, dictated by the previous winner and host for the race. American Magic is working with aviation company Airbus as their official innovation partner. “New boats involve aerodynamic designs as much as hydrodynamics,” Thompson said.

The design and sailing team will get to test the waters (and air) with their first full-size hydrofoil in August 2019 in Newport, RI. Summer training and troubleshooting with what they call “Hull 1” will help them finalize the second design for launch in 2020.

L-R: Past Commodore J. James Morrow and Tucker Thompson

Winning also demands comprehensive testing of the boat prior to sailing it in New Zealand. To that end, the American Magic team first launched a 50 percent scale model of the AC75, training five crew members (instead of the full 11) on it. The five teams competing in the 2021 America’s Cup are allowed to build two full-size boats prior to

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The complex design innovations and sailing strategies may not be immediately apparent to the neophyte sailor. Thompson’s mission is to make the sport accessible and engaging to all, while inspiring the next generation of sailors. He said, “My job is to explain the nuances of the sport and infuse excitement where nonsailing viewers may not otherwise understand what they’re seeing. Human drama plays out on the water whether or not you understand sailing terminology.” He added, “If you get the chance, come to New Zealand in 2021- not only will the weather there be better than it will be here (summer to our winter), but you’ll get to experience what

promises to be a thrilling event in a beautiful country that produces many of the world’s best sailors.” Sailing is as big a sport to Kiwis as NFL football is to Americans, Thompson observed.

What will the winning team (hopefully American Magic) get for their four years of design, planning, building, training, and practice? There is no prize money attached to the America’s Cup but there is a big history-filled silver trophy symbolizing “friendly competition between nations,” bragging rights, and the chance to host the next race in four years – a massive accomplishment that gives the defending team an advantage next time out.

When asked if he spends every free moment sailing, Thompson candidly replied, “I love being involved in the pinnacle event of this sport. I may not race any longer, but I would like to get back into it with my kids. It’s been great watching my son (Philip, age 10) discover the sport. It was very special to have him with me at the GPYC for his first national competition, the USODA Optimist Nationals, in July.”

Boating is a family activity; Thompson’s wife Sara, and daughter Sutton, age 5, also love being on the water, although Sutton is more interested in horses at the moment. Thompson said, “I’m still as passionate about sailing as I was when I was eight years old. I’m very fulfilled and honored to be a part of this sport. I encourage young sailors to sail as much as they can. Sailing can take you across the harbor or across the world. It can change your life.

It changed mine.”

MEMBER SCENE

All Things European: French Wine, Cognac Tasting Paired with Fine Italian Clothier

Photography by John F. Martin

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n March 28, 2019, members enjoyed an evening of French and Italian fineries. The event kicked off with a French wine tasting featuring the Midwest ambassador of Louis XIII, Julien Pardes, and Michael Cregar of Woodberry Wine. All of this was paired with Master Clothier Frank Serraiocco, who displayed his finest fabrics and took measurements for 100 percent hand-sewn jackets and suits. Frank was on hand to meet and fit members, guests and the public throughout the day on March 29.

Julien Pardes

The Louis XIII wine event was paired with custom fittings from an Italian Clothier

L-R: Jason Grobbel, Julien Pardes and Melissa Bodmer

Michael Cregar

Julien Pardes

Photography by John F. Martin

L-R: Joe and Tammy Haney, Kim Whitman, Christine and Bruce Knapp, and Alan Whitman

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GPYC FEATURE

Marine Corps Mess Night: A Long GPYC Tradition

By Col. Larry Stephenson, M.D., USAR (Ret.) and Red Coat member

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he Grosse Pointe Yacht Club was honored to host the annual USMC Mess Night on Saturday, April 6, 2019. Typically, the guest of honor is a Marine Corps general, and this year was no exception. The Commandant (commanding officer) of the USMC, General Robert B. Neller, was the honored guest. Over the five decades of GPYC Mess Nights, three other commandants and four assistant commandants, all four-star generals, have been guests of honor.

The mess night held at the GPYC is the longest running annual mess night in the USMC, the first being organized by then Marine Colonel (now retired Brigadier General) Robert Raisch in February 1970. At the time, the director of the USMC Ninth District, Colonel Lobel, had come to Detroit to inspect reserve units at the Bordhead Armory, located near the Belle Isle Bridge. Colonel Raisch arranged the mess night as a suitable social event to entertain the director, and chose the venue of the GPYC because he was a member at the time.

That first dinner was held in the Venetian Room and featured the Honorable James H. Brickley, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan, as the guest of honor. (James Brickley was soon to become the Lieutenant Governor of Michigan and eventually became Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court.)

As a guide for protocol, the colonel used the USMC Officers Guide, authored by his friend Colonel Robert Heinl, which revived tradition dating back to the Royal Navy and Lord Nelson (Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1758-1805). Bob Heinl

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parliamentary democracy of Canada. According to General Raisch, this is the only USMC mess night that traditionally offers a toast to the queen.

Colonel Raisch continued to organize and run the event until 1976, when the Marine “Red Coats” took the reins. Red Coats were retired World War II Marine Corps officers living in the State of Michigan. The group had organized in 1974 and quickly became recognizable for wearing red blazers with the Marine Corps emblem to their events; hence the nickname.

Standing, L-R: GPYC Commodore Ilja Vreeken, General Raisch’s daughter Laura, Commandant Robert B. Neller.

Seated, wearing his Red Coat blazer, Brigadier General Robert Raisch, USMC (ret.)

Photo courtesy of GPYC staff

also provided additional details of protocol for the organization of that first event. Guests included Marine Corps officers, some Canadian military officers and a few civilian guests. Due to the success of the event, it was agreed that it should become an annual affair.

As a note of interest, because Canada is right on our border, Canadian military personnel are routinely invited to attend. Among the various toasts proposed during the evening is a customary toast to the Queen of England, the sovereign of the

Today the Red Coats organization also includes some retired officers from other branches of the U.S. military. The April meeting at the GPYC had 130 attendees; along with Red Coats were current active duty and reserve Marines, some Canadian military members and VIP civilian guests. Traditionally, the sitting GPYC commodore is invited to attend, and this year Commodore Vreeken was present and seated at the head table.

Recently, students in the Navy and Marine Corps ROTC programs at the University of Michigan have been invited, and about 20 were able to attend.

As always, a band of military musicians provided patriotic music for the enjoyment of attendees.

In his remarks, Commandant Neller stated, “One thing is constant, the American people believe that if the Marines are called up, they are going to win.”

Therefore, a major part of his job is recruiting the best and brightest who are dedicated to getting the job done. Speaking more specifically to the ROTC members present, he emphasized the importance of the next generation in maintaining the respect and admiration the U.S. Marine Corps has earned all over the world.

Presiding over the event was the Mess President and Red Coat, Retired USMC three-star Lieutenant General Jack Bergman. Jack is currently a U.S. congressman representing Michigan from the First Congressional District, which includes the Upper Peninsula and part of the upper half of the Lower Peninsula. He is also presently the highest-ranking former military person serving in the U.S. Congress.

Following the event, General/Congressman Bergman spoke with me informally about the USMC mission as America’s expeditionary force in readiness. Emphasizing their well-deserved reputation for being where they are most needed, he stated, “Marines are forward deployed to win our nation’s battles swiftly and aggressively in times of crises. We will always be the Marines, and go where the fight is.”

Reference: History of “Ye Knights of Olde”/Red Coats and Reflections on the Founding and Early History of the Detroit Area Marine Corps Mess Night, by Larry Stephenson and Robert S. Raisch, pub. Dorian Naughton 2013.

Marines, Red Coats and guests await the opening ceremony of the 2019 Mess Night.

Photo courtesy of GPYC staff

Commandant Neller delivers his remarks from the head table. To his left is Lt. General/Congressman Jack Bergman, Red Coat and Mess President.

Photo courtesy of GPYC staff

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Easter Bunny Brunch

Easter Wreaths Class for Tweens

Gabriella Mannino and Betsy Ropke Rita and Cecilia Paluzzi

Photography by John F. Martin

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Van Natter Family

Photography by John F. Martin

Schaupeter Family

Squires Family

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Easter Brunch & Dinner Photography by John F. Martin

Addison Swegles and Heather Catallo

The Mathews Family

Noah Segletes and Lisa Segletes

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The Kubek Family

The Matuja Family

Prisoner Wine Dinner

MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Ben Roeder, Christine Roeder, Stacy and Keith Spondike

Prisoner Wine Company Winemaker Niki Williams

Photography by John F. Martin

L-R: Tom and Marilyn Stephenson, Brad and Amy Danna

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MEMBER SCENE

Little Chefs Cooking Class

Photography by John F. Martin

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By Mary Fannon

o establish a creative atmosphere for children, free from technology, smart phones etc., Past Commodore Sean Schotthoeffer decided to start a Little Chefs Cooking Class.

Children from ages 5 to 11 gathered in the Fo’c’sle and learned how create their own pizza with GPYC Culinary Team Member Carly Spaust. The children did it all kneading, throwing, and cooking. “There was a lot of flour in the air as they were tossing the dough!” Schotthofer said. “I am guessing there will be quite a few more kids involved at the next Little Chefs event.”

Commodore Schotthoefer divulged into his inspiration for this event by saying, “I started cooking at a young age because I enjoyed the self-pride in providing for myself.” The main goal for the Little Chefs Class was to have the kids create a meal of their own and step away from the technological world.

Photography by Rob Widdis

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Carly Spaust and the Little Chefs Cooking Class Participants

MEMBER SCENE

Dock Cocktail Party

Photography by John F. Martin

L-R: Maureen Gleason and Amy Schaden

Executive Chef Colby Newman prepares food dockside.

L-R: Tom Curcuri, Jane Curcuri, Joanna Izzi, Kim and Gary Bill

L-R: Cathy Champion Killebrew, Leah Mannino, and Taryn Simon

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MEMBER SCENE

GPYC Honors Top Bowlers for 2018-2019

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PYC’s bowling leagues celebrated their 2018-2019 season accomplishments at the annual Kentucky Derby Bowling Awards Banquet in May. For this year’s top scoring men, John Seago had an average of 223 and Tom Stephenson followed with a 212 average. For the women’s league, Julie Granger lead with a 161 average and Ellen Starks came second with a 151 average. For the Ladies Individual Club Championship, Marilyn Stephenson defeated Ellen Starks in the finals, 715 to 661. For the Men’s Individual Championship, Chris Izzi defeated Chris Rodriguez, 742 to 670. Finally, Bowler of the Year was awarded to Peter Gleason. “Pete is very active in the GPYC Bowling Program, always working on his game by bowling every chance he can,” said GPYC Bowling Pro Gordy Woods.

In addition, the Monday Men’s League (Matt Mannino, Brian Fish, Chris Izzi, David Schaden and Matt Schaden) earned the title of Team Champions.

Outside of the club, GPYC Men defeated Lochmoor by 448 pins. The season left the GPYC bowling leagues placing a win at every interclub.

Eugenia Di Sante

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Dea Welsh and Dominic Neumann

2018-2019 GPYC Bowling League participants

MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

GPYC’s Bowling Recreation Center

GPYC Bowling Pro Gordy Woods with Julie Granger and John Seago, top scorers for the women and men

GPYC Bowling Pro Gordy Woods and Marilyn Stephenson, winner of the Ladies Individual Club Championship

Did you know that the first season of GPYC’s bowling leagues is completely full? This is the first time this has happened since 2008, according to GPYC Bowling Director Gordy Woods.

“I guess the saying, ‘If you build it, they will come’ is true in this instance. Since we remodeled the BRC in 2018, we have had a lot of activity.”

The activity that Gordy describes isn’t just the leagues. The beautiful facility is also used for Club tailgate parties, private parties or the perfect place to meet friends for a drink.

If you would like to book this venue for birthday parties, holiday parties and more, contact the Catering Office by calling Barb Walkowski at (313) 640-7006 or bwalkowski@gpyc.org or Karleen Bacha at (313) 640-7007 or kbacha@gpyc.org.

Chris Izzi, winner of the Men’s Individual Club Championship, and GPYC Bowling Pro Gordy Woods

GPYC Bowling Pro Gordy Woods and 2019 Bowler of the Year Pete Gleason

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MEMBER SCENE

Photography by John F. Martin

Downtown Bar Crawl Derby High Tea L-R: Gisele Bourbeau and Mary Schaden

Anderson Poirier

Lisha Kilgus with daughter Sofia

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Photography Courtesy of Christie Ventimiglia

Mother’s Day

MEMBER SCENE Photography by Christine Semmler

Lamparter Family

Mulder Family

Johnston Family

Burke Family

Morrow/Groustra Family

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MEMBER SCENE

Great Lakes Boating Festival Weekend Raises $120,000 for Junior Sailing

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he 31st Annual Great Lakes Boating Festival, which took place from May 17-19, 2019, is a multi-faceted fundraiser to support not just GPYC’s junior sailors, but many other young sailors in the Metro Detroit area. The weekend kicks off with a Summer Breeze Party, which is considered one of the Club’s most epic social events of the year. The party features a live auction and a 101 Raffle. The funds raised from Summer Breeze are combined with revenue from vendors who display boats as well as raffle tickets purchased throughout the weekend, says Past Commodore J. James Morrow.

James Mestdagh, J.T. Mestdagh Jr., and Past Commodore J. James Morrow

Remote control sailboats is a popular attraction at the boat show.

“After expenses, approximately $120,000 was raised throughout the weekend, with $36,000 going directly to support GPYC Junior Sailing,” Morrow said. “The rest of the funds are utilized

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Mychalowych Family

by the Grosse Pointe Youth Nautical Education Foundation (GPYNEF) to support scholarships, local high school varsity sailing programs, regatta sponsorships, USODA Nationals and the Challenge the Wind Sailing Program for inner-city youth.”

For those not familiar with the GPYNEF, the foundation’s mission is guided by the Yachtsman’s Committee (YC), a group of past commodores and junior sailing enthusiasts. This volunteer committee has existed for over 32 years and provides opportunities for financial assistance, training and competitive sailing events for young people. The YC organizes and promotes the Great Lakes Boating Festival and the Summer Breeze Fundraiser for the GPYNEF. Money raised by the Yachtsman’s Committee is directed to support the GPYC Junior Sailing program and provide donations to the GPYNEF to meet their annual goals. In total since 1988, the Yachtsman’s Committee has raised over $6,000,000 in gross funds to support junior sailing.

MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Christine Gonzalez, Ici Ollison and Tricia Morrow Groustra

In 2019, the GPYNEF continued with its aggressive support and promotion of the high school sailing programs and awarded 14 college scholarships. The foundation also sponsored regattas at the GPYC and promoted clinics to provide the best possible training experiences. In addition, the GPYNEF sponsored the USODA National Championships at the GPYC July 20-28, 2019. This event drew approximately 400 Optimist sailors, 8-15 years old.

These young sailors came from across the U.S., as well as from Europe, Asia and South America.

GPYNEF President and Past Commodore J. James Morrow

L-R: Carol Klenow, Kristen Schotthoefer, Kelley Vreeken and Pasha Vreeken

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MEMBER SCENE

Great Lakes Boating Festival Continued

Another important mission of the GPYNEF is to support Challenge the Wind (CTW), a Detroit nonprofit that works “to introduce and teach sailing to young people who would otherwise never get exposed to the sport.” CTW recently settled in at the Detroit Boat House on Belle Isle, and GPYNEF played a big part in helping with the transition.

The Yachtsmen’s Committee and GPYNEF have both worked to make the GPYC Sailing Program one of the finest programs in North America and building on our reputation as a premier Yacht Club. This would not be possible without the generous support of GPYNEF donors.

Dan and Sue Bracciano

Skye Vreeken

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2019 GPYNEF Scholarship Recipients The Grosse Pointe Youth Nautical Education Foundation (GPYNEF) began annually awarding scholarships to young sailors in 2012, and to the date has provided 86 $1,500 scholarships. This year 14 scholarships were given. Of those awarded, three are members here at GPYC: congratulations Caroline Breen, Joseph Haney and Emma Turner.

“Any child who has participated in a junior or high school sailing program is eligible to apply for a scholarship during their senior year of high school,” Past Commodore and GPYNEF President J. James Morrow said. “So, if your young person participated in a Learn to Sail program and then went on to do other activities or sports, they remain eligible to apply. The program was put in place to encourage parents to have their children participate in the junior sailing programs.”

Fisher Wine Dinner

MEMBER SCENE Photography by Erik Campos

L-R: Peter and Erica Panagopoulos, Olivia and Dominic Paluzzi

L-R: Wes and Nicole O’Neil, Leah and Matt Mannino, Courtney and Bradley Drummy

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MEMBER SCENE

Memorial Day Weekend Fishing Rodeo Anna Groustra

Past Commodore Bill Vogel and Braden Vogel

Pool Games

Photography by Erik Campos

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Photography by John Martin and Christine Semmler

MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Joseph Lucido, Dan Grice, Kevin Killebrew and Cathy Champion Killebrew

L-R: Laurie and Rick Granger, Emily and Scott Granger

Bocce Tournament L-R: Dale and Nancy Hohlfeldt, Gloria and Jason Hinz

Laurie and Rick Granger

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John Martin and Christine Semmler

Blessing of the Fleet Commodore Ilja Vreeken

Commanding Officer of USCG Air Station Detroit Captain Jared E. King was the guest speaker at the 2019 Blessing of the Fleet and Memorial Day Ceremony. He also organized a Coast Guard rescue demonstration near the Marine Activity Center on Memorial Day.

Memorial Day Weekend BBQ

Samir Dabbous with granddaughter Isabella Haladjian

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Little Club Rendezvous

John and Renee Seago Photo courtesy of Jane Curcuri

MEMBER SCENE

L-R: Roy and Lynn Maksym, Linas Mastis, Bob Wiczorek, Raminta Mastis, Gloria Wiczorek, Matt and Tina Seely and Gary Bill Photo courtesy of Jane Curcuri

Ominous clouds did not deter this group from heading to the Little Club Rendezvous.

Photo courtesy of Aaron Wagner

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Pointe Club Rooftop Party

L-R: Brendan Fossee, Katie Fossee and Colleen Blake

L-R: Tom Paparaptis, Jennifer Fiore, Past Commodore Sean Schotthoefer and Athina Papas

L-R: Olivia Paluzzi, Erica Panagopoulos, Leah Mannino, Courtney Drummy and Molly Early

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MEMBER SCENE

Model of Tashmoo, An Early 1900s Steamboat, Gifted to GPYC

By Kelley Vreeken

T

he Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Board of Directors hosted a very special event on Sunday, June 9, to accept a beautifully crafted model of the Tashmoo, a side wheeler steamboat that operated from 1900-1936 and carried passengers between Detroit and Port Huron. It was famous for being one of the fastest ships during its time on the Great Lakes. It is a beautifully crafted piece and will be a great addition to our Club’s historical aesthetic.

We were honored to have its builder and donator, US Marine Corps Retired Brigadier General Robert S. Raisch there, with his wife, Susan, and his daughters, Laura and Julie, to present this generous gift to the Club.

A little bit about the Brigadier General, Robert S. Raisch. He was born in Detroit in 1929, joined the Marine Corp Officer’s Training program in 1947 and also attended Duke University to receive his major in mechanical engineering. He was commissioned into the USMC Reserve in 1951. His commands included the Headquarters Squadron at Grosse Ile (Michigan) and the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The position at Selfridge Air National Guard Base was created because and for him. He served in the Korean War and was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses for his service in the Marine Fighting Squadron 224. He flew a Grumman F9F jet fighter attack aircraft. He retired in 1980 as a Brigadier General.

The Tashmoo is currently located in the lobby at the GPYC. Please take a moment to have a look at its amazing craftsmanship.

The original Tashmoo circa the 1920s

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by Christine Semmler Photography by John F. Martin

Smoked Meats 101

Chef Colby’s Southern Roots Shine Through in Demo Class

A model of the Tashmoo by Brigadier General Robert S. Raisch

Commodore Ilja Vreeken

E

xecutive Chef Colby Newman’s Southern roots allowed him to gather plenty of knowledge about smoking meats, and he was able to share his thoughts on the topic to a group of about 30 members on the evening of June 12.

Rubs, sauces, and the varieties of smoking found in different regions were all part of an interactive presentation by Newman. “I answered a lot of really good questions,” he said. “We went through all the basics – different smokers and woods, how to smoke (temperature and time) and more.”

While describing the smoker demo class, Newman begins reminiscing about some of the ways BBQ is interpreted in different parts of the country. It’s the same principles, just different flavors, he says.

“There are so many historic and iconic places such as LC’s BAR-B-Q in Kansas City,” Newman said.

“It’s not in the best part of town. There’s paper towel on the table, you order by the pound and a full loaf of Wonder Bread comes with your meal.”

In Kansas City, they tend to smoke a lot more pork, he says. Texas is big on beef such as brisket, etc. In Georgia, especially in poorer areas, the trend is to smoke whole pigs or larger pieces of meat – which is the way to get the most bang for your buck.

L-R: Past Commodore J. James Morrow Jr., Commodore Ilja Vreeken and Brigadier General Robert S. Raisch

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Soon, Newman says, he would love to host a more advanced smoking class. Stay tuned.

Executive Chef Colby Newman

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MEMBER SCENE

In-Harbor Rendezvous Features MAC Party, Pickleball Events & More

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PYC’s In-Harbor Rendezvous weekend of fun started off with an evening cocktail party located at the Marine Activity Center (MAC). “The party at the MAC was fabulous,” said Special Events Director Kathy VandeLaare. “The entertainment, The Implications, was amazing, and everyone had a great time.” The night was followed by a Saturday morning “Learn to Play Pickleball” event with GPYC member Julie Granger, followed by a return of the Pickleball Showdown between Tennis Pro Dimitri Diakonov and General Manager Aaron Wagner. After the match was finished, all gathered to eat and mingle with a complimentary BBQ with burgers and hot dogs. On Saturday evening, members enjoyed a Dive-in Movie Night.

Photography by John F. Martin Tennis Pro Dmitri Diakonov and General Manager Aaron Wagner during the Pickleball Showdown

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by Christine Semmler

Father’s Day El-Yussif Family

The Van Natter Family

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L-R: Alessia Morreale, Antonio Morreale, Annalisa Giuliani, Marco Morreale and Alessandro Giuliani

Zhuk/Habib Family and the Parnell Family

The Squires Family

MEMBER SCENE

Ladies-Only Rooftop Party Offers Breathtaking Views, Camaraderie

By Lady Kelley Vreeken and Skye Vreeken

W

ell the fish flies tried their best, but the sold-out Ladies Only Rooftop Cocktail Party went off without a hitch. Beautiful weather and incredible company made for a truly special evening. The panoramic view of the spectacular sunset was best enjoyed with a group of amazing women and the signature lychee martini crafted by no other than our very own Kishor. It was national martini day after all!

L-R: Melissa Aslam and Rania Routsis

The amazing efforts of those who planned and worked the event ensured great times for all. Special thanks to Alex Turner and his Harbor Team for hauling everything up to the roof, Chef for his amazing hors d’ oeuvres and the entire catering staff.

The rooftop was fully transformed with hedges, flowers, and succulent arrangements decorating the tabletops and lounge area with lights strung overhead. Flower-filled Chinese screens covered the unsightly A/C units, completing the transition to a beautiful, cozy setting.

It was perfect for entertaining and accommodating the large turnout of over 100 guests, each leaving their mark by signing the stairway welcome wall and immortalizing good times had. Thank you to all those who worked to make the night great and to those who turned out for making the party one to remember.

L-R: Karen Stefani, Kelley Vreeken, Lisa Jerry

L-R: Savannah Fish, Nancy Fish, Christine Knapp and Hannah Knapp

L-R: Tiffany Klaasen, Alicia Krall and Carrie Tigges

L-R: Katie Tompkins and Christy Sherding

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MEMBER SCENE

Summer Solstice Party

A

s is tradition, the Club held a special party to celebrate the beginning of summer. First Lady Kelley Vreeken and Special Events Director Kathy VandeLaare were the ones behind the scenes making their vision of the perfect Summer Solstice Party a reality. “The food and décor were the stars of the event,” VandeLaare said.

“It was just lovely.”

A “South of France” vibe enhanced the alreadygorgeous East Lawn setting – with everything down to the wooden rectangular French tables, floral arrangements, linens, umbrellas and even turquoise and lime macaroons.

Executive Chef Colby described the array of seafood – oysters, crab legs and more – as well as items such as French caramel ribs and stone ground Dijon chicken as “simple foods that are just naturally good.”

The favorite dish of the event, of course, was the 1 ½to 2-pound fresh Maine lobsters.

L-R: Elli Giordimaina, Paige Bachand and Jennifer Fiore

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MEMBER SCENE Photography by John F. Martin

Stephen and Hollis Griffin L-R: Doug and Diane Dossin with Past Commodore Bill Vogel

L-R: Rania and Evans Routsis, Christine Knapp, Bruce Knapp, Gregory and Teresa DeGrazia

Stephanie and Kevin Butler

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SAILING

Summer Regatta Celebrates 90th Year

Photography by Michelle A. Penoyer

T

he official opening of the Clubhouse and the first Annual Summer Regatta share the same birthday – July 4, 1929. The opening of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club was known as “the social event to be at in Detroit,” says Past Commodore Sloane Barbour. “The regatta kicked off the grand event, and the tradition has continued for 90 years.”

As the last Detroit Regional Yacht-Racing Association (DRYA) regatta before the epic Bayview to Mackinac Race, Barbour refers to the Summer Regatta as a “tune-up” for sailors before the big race.

A new element was added to the Summer Regatta this year – a stadium sailing event featuring many short races that could be viewed from the Club’s Marine Activity Center (MAC) on the southeast corner of the harbor. This equates to about six races per boat in about four hours. Two classes of boats, Cal 25s and J/70s, participated in the event.

L-R: Phil Eddins (BYC), Dominic Neumann (GPYC), Ryan Seago (GPYC/BYC) and John Seago (GPYC)

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L-R: Don Glover, Grant Glover, Dominic Dulac and Luc Walz on a J/70

Past Commodore Sloane Barbour sailing Calliope, which has been docked at GPYC for more than 50 years, during the Stadium Sailing event

SAILING

Junior Sailing Program Boasts 160 Sailors, Racing Team Excels at Local Regattas

Photography by Christine Semmler

I

n the words of Junior Sailing Director Emily Simon, the GPYC’s 2019 Junior Sailing season was “nothing short of incredible.” The program experienced an immense amount of growth – attracting more than 160 sailors this year, compared to approximately 100 children in 2018 and 50 in 2017.

New this year, a weeklong Kindersailing program was added – allowing for children as young as age 5 to be introduced to the sport. The program was full within a month of registration. “This year we had 24 kindersailors, 52 kids in our Learn to Sail program and 35 in Adventure Sailing,” Simon said.

“That’s 111 kids learning to sail this summer at the GPYC – more than our entire program last year.”

2019 Junior Sailors

Outstanding Girl Sailor Anna Carron, Outstanding Boy Sailor Henry Gonzalez and Corinthian Sailor Michael Mullins

2019 coaches with Junior Sailing Chair Bill Turner (top) and Junior Sailing Director Emily Simon (second row, far right)

Coaches Award (Laser) Fritz Woerner

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SAILING The rest of the children competed in the Club’s racing program. “We had the largest team in the DRYA (Detroit Regional Yacht-Racing Association) and arguably the most successful” Simon said.

“Over the course of five regattas, our sailors won 72 flags. At the CSYC Regatta, we took first in every class.”

“It was such a pleasure watching the kids grow in their confidence and sailing abilities throughout the course of this summer,” Simon said.

At the end of the season, junior sailors and their families congregated in the Ballroom for the annual awards banquet. The awards received by GPYC sailors include:

Club 420 with Coach Caroline

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GPYC’s racing team placed first in every class at the Crescent Regatta this summer.

Photo courtesy of Emily Simon

Opti RWB with Coach Jack

Learn to Sail with Coach Emma and Coach Rhys

SAILING

Learn to Sail - Most Improved: Liam Loredo, Sportsmanship: Camille Yeloushan, Most Outstanding: Therese Carron Green Fleet - Most Improved: Connor Smith, Coaches Award: Tyler Morrison, Sportsmanship: Madeline Hexter, Most Outstanding: Erin DeGrazia RWB Fleet - Most Improved: Peter Horst, Coaches Award: Charlie Walton, Sportsmanship: Luke Wenzler, Optimist Sailor of the Year: Braden Vogel

Adventure Sailing with Coach Wyatt

Laser - Laser Sailor of the Year: Billy Vogel, Coaches Award: Fritz Woerner Adventure Sailing - Most Improved: Skylar McGuire, Sportsmanship: Dexter Klein, Coaches Award: Julia Tibbitts 420 Collegiate - Coaches Award: Ben Sun, All Star Crew: Ryan Michalak, Most Improved: Connie Squitieri, Sportsmanship: Brody Yeloushan, Skipper: Will Turner

Green Fleet with Coach Kristie and Coach Christina

420 - Most Improved: Connor Nihem, Coaches Award: Lilli Walton, All Star Crew: David Ament, Most Outstanding Skipper: Charlie Gonzalez Top Awards - 2019 GPYC Outstanding Girl Sailor of the Year: Anna Carron, 2019 GPYC Outstanding Boy Sailor of the Year: Henry Gonzalez, 2019 Corinthian Spirit Award Year: Michael Mullins, 2019 GPYC Sailor of the Year: Michael Kirkman

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SWIM Photography by John F. Martin

GPYC Sailfish End 2019 Season with 6-0 Record & a Boost to MICSA Upper Division

Top to bottom: GPYC Seniors Sophie Housey, Meg Gleason and Charlie Schuetze

T

he GPYC Sailfish swim team has a lot to celebrate this year, such as a growing team of 87 swimmers, a 6-0 record and moving back into the Michigan Inter-Club Swimming Association (MICSA) Upper Division. MICSA is comprised of 14 teams – those who finish in the top seven are in the upper division, and those in the bottom seven are placed in the lower division for the next season. The Sailfish only spent one year in the lower division, says Head Coach Nick Valice.

“We had a great growth and development year,” Valice said. “We added a lot of depth and hope that we can continue to trend upward in the following years. Our swimmers worked very hard and are setting the path for a long period of success.”

A highlight of the season included Sailfish Avery Beal as an event winner at MICSA with the 50 breaststroke. Also, the following swimmers were acknowledged at the annual awards ceremony: Coaches Award: Luke Loeffler (boys), Victoria McCabe (girls) Fred Michalik Award: Avery Beal 12&Up Season High Point: Stanton Kapla (boys) and Avery Beal (girls) 13&Up High Point: Asher Fuchs (boys) and Sophia Kapla (girls) Memorial MICSA Champs: Ronan Zvirbulis (boys) and Avery Beal (girls) Vollmer Award: Meg Gleason Rookie of the Year: Ronan and Liam Zvirbulis (boys) and Sophia Kapla (girls)

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Ronan (left) and Liam Zvirbulis with Head Coach Nick Valice

L-R: Sophia Kapla, Hannah Wheatley and Genevieve Boutrous

One of the awards listed to the left, the Fred Michalik award, is named for long-time GPYC Head Coach and Pool Manager, who retired from the GPYC in September 2019. Valice describes the qualities that are required to receive the award: a strong work ethic, a drive to become better and caring about the team first. For those who know Fred, they would agree that those characteristics perfectly describe him and his loyalty to the GPYC.

8 & Under Boys with Head Coach Nick Valice

SWIM

The 2019 Sailfish Swim Team

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

By Shelley Yorke Rose and Anna Swartz

Graham Korneffel

A

re you aware of the unique connection between the ongoing restoration of the Belle Isle Boat House and the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club? That connection lies in the Grosse Pointe Youth Nautical Education Foundation (GPYNEF) and the generous volunteer efforts of 14-year GPYC member Graham Korneffel, vice president of the E.C. Korneffel Company.

The docks on the east end of the Belle Isle Boat House were damaged beyond repair from years of neglect, and posed a danger to sailors and rowing crews using the facility. The high cost of removing and fixing the docks to make them safe was prohibitive. Thanks to Korneffel and his company, skilled workers used their deck barge and crane to

Tricia Morrow-Groustra

W

e all know that safety is an important part of boating. For one of our lifetime members, Tricia Morrow-Groustra, safety is also her life’s work. Morrow-Groustra is a safety strategy engineer for General Motors who worked on the new Buckle to Drive technology debuting in the 2020 Chevrolet Traverse. The new timed shiftinterlock and accompanying visual and audio alerts add to an existing buckle-up reminder when the vehicle is in Teen Driver mode. Teen Driver also restricts access to the radio until the seatbelts of the driver and detected passenger are buckled.

The 22-year GPYC member and mother of two daughters, ages 9 and 15, believes this new feature will give parents of teen drivers a little extra peace of

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cut the docks free, remove the pilings, and clean up the east end of the facility to make it safe and functional. The volunteers did this big job pro bono and now Friends of Detroit Rowing and Detroit students in the Challenge the Wind Youth Sailing Program have safe and beautiful docks and other equipment to use.

of the Challenge the Wind Youth Sailing Program,” Korneffel said.

Kudos to Korneffel, his company, and his crew for making this dream project a reality that benefits the larger sailing community.

E. C. Korneffel Co. is a Marine, Bridge, and Piling Contractor that has been in business since 1950 and has been involved locally with the Uniroyal site, Mt. Elliot Park, Detroit Riverwalk, Port of Detroit offshore wharf, GPYC Harbor, and many other high-profile projects.

“When I went to visit the Belle Isle Boat House (formerly the Detroit Boat Club), I could see how important it was to improve the facility and aid in the revival of Detroit and the youth that were part mind when their kids are on the road. “I think of my daughters every day on my job,” Morrow-Groustra said. “The statistics are scary for young drivers and I constantly ask what we can do to make them safer.”

Because self-reported seat belt use is only at a 59 percent rate for high schoolers (CDC, 2017), MorrowGroustra’s team first developed a pilot system for the seat belt interlock technology which the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety independently tested. The pilot system increased seatbelt use by a significant 16 percent among part-time seat belt users as compared to existing seat belt reminder chimes. The system that is now available on the Chevy Traverse will provide a strong reminder to young drivers to buckle up and, hopefully, save some lives.

“According to the National Highway Traffic Safety

Administration, car crashes are the number one cause of death of teens,” Morrow-Groustra said. “I am so proud to bring this industry-first feature to our customers.” For more information on GM’s Teen Driver or the Buckle to Drive system, please visit gm.com or find Tricia at the Club!

Tricia Morrow-Groustra

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

JT Mestdagh, Jr.

B

oater, extreme skier, and mountaineer JT Mestdagh, 24, is also a newly published author. His memoir, Untether, tells a story of difficult personal trials and, ultimately, resilience.

Diagnosed as an infant with VATER/VACTERL association, a genetic disorder that affects multiple body systems, Mestdagh endured almost a year in hospitals before he turned three. He underwent 16 surgeries before the age of 16. He was further challenged by a diagnosis of severe dyslexia and short-term memory loss in fourth grade. His teachers thought he faced a life of illiteracy in addition to his physical challenges.

Mestdagh’s parents saw him through years of medical treatments and ongoing searches for a

Dougie Gmeiner Cowan

F

ifteen-year-old Dougie Gmeiner Cowan, grandson of long-time GPYC member Patty Gmeiner, is one of the country’s best young sailors – his invitation to be part of the United States National Team (USNT) is proof.

A letter from the United States Optimist Dinghy Association read: “You and a very limited number of the most accomplished sailors in the country will be asked to carry the torch of success, honor and pride as a USNT member. For the 2019-2020 season, the USNT has expanded its curriculum, planned more intensive practice opportunities and added USNT-only international events to offer you and your teammates some unique opportunities to increase your skills to even greater heights.”

As part of the USNT team, Dougie was one of 300

learning program that would help him read. In fifth grade, they discovered TATTUM Reading, an integrated phonics program that worked for the young Mestdagh.

“Growing up by the lake and the community of Grosse Pointe has been so inspiring to me,” Mestdagh said. “The water that surrounds us brings me great joy and happiness.”

Mestdagh surpassed his doctors’ and teachers’ expectations and went on to write his memoir and even climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Sales of Untether (available on Amazon.com) benefit the non-profit JT Mestdagh Foundation, which supports children, adults, and families facing life with colorectal diseases and VATER/VACTERL syndrome, as well as those with dyslexia and other learning differences. Facing physical and learning challenges that would test anyone’s resolve, Mestdagh has demonstrated an unfailing determination to never give up and to live and learn.

children from 17 countries who participated in the 2019 Volvo Gill Optimist British National & Open Championships. The event was held in Weymouth, England from July 27-August 2. He placed 2nd for the U.S. team, and 35th overall for the gold fleet.

While in England, Dougie received an invitation to race on the New Zealand boat in the Detroit Cup, a four-day match racing event held in August at Bayview Yacht Club. Out of the participating nine boats, New Zealand won, and the skipper said: “getting Dougie Cowan was the best decision we made.”

Dougie’s interest in the sport is undoubtedly due to his parent’s love of sailing – his mother Amy Gmeiner Cowan grew up at the GPYC and sailing on Lake St. Clair. Dougie began learning how to sail at 7 years of age. Part of his training includes

several summers in the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club’s junior sailing program. His years of training has helped him develop the necessary work ethic and skills to secure his spot as a USNT member. “It feels good to achieve my goal after all of the hard work,” Dougie said.

Dougie Gmeiner Cowan

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Edsel Ford I, the Commodore who was -- and wasn’t.

Surprising people, stories and events from our past.

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ssembled on a paneled wall of the Commodores Room in the clubhouse are the portraits of 86 people who have held that office. It’s a proud group. But one name is curiously absent.

Edsel Ford I, President of Ford Motor Company and the only child of automotive icon Henry Ford I, isn’t there. For a time, he held the distinction of being the third commodore of the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club.

“For a time” is key here. Edsel B. Ford I joined the GPYC in 1926 and less than two months later was named commodore.

But just 40 days after taking the helm, he resigned it. What happened? Was there some sort of blowup between Edsel Ford I and the Club? Was it an unpleasant parting?

While Mr. Ford’s letter of resignation has been lost to antiquity -- and with it the reasons for his stepping down -- it is safe to assume that his motivation was more external than internal. The answer is in what was going on in Mr. Ford’s life outside GPYC. As Ford President, he was responsible for the launch of the new Ford Model A, the replacement for his father’s venerable, but outdated Model T. Converting the company to produce the revolutionary new car required around-the-clock vigilance by the man in charge.

Then there was Mr. Ford himself – Edsel’s father, Henry Ford I, who had a fundamentalist’s disdain for the trappings of high society. The idea of his son presiding over a prestigious yacht club in cheeky Grosse Pointe was surely distasteful to him. It is most likely Henry had a serious sit-down with his son about keeping his focus on the family business.

Edsel’s response, as it was in all such meetings with Henry Ford I, was surely “Yes, Father.”

From the collections of The Henry Ford

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With that, Edsel Ford I gained the dubious distinction of being our briefest serving

commodore. Even so, he remained a member in good standing for years afterward and made substantial contributions to assist the Club through the Great Depression. His portrait was excluded from the display in the Commodores Room presumably because he never served a full term.

The remainder of Edsel Ford’s life was a mixture of success and tragedy, intertwined with a difficult father/son relationship. Edsel’s Model A was a monumental success, despite Henry’s reservations.

He created the Lincoln Continental, after persuading his skeptical parent to buy the bankrupt Lincoln Motor Company. And, early in World War II, he prevailed against his father’s pacifist beliefs to build the Willow Run bomber factory that became the epicenter of the “Arsenal of Democracy.”

Sadly, Edsel’s health began to fail. He contracted undulant fever from drinking unpasteurized milk (said to have been recommended by Henry as a health cure). Worse yet, he developed stomach cancer, which was inoperable. And fatal. He died in 1943, without knowing the result of his considerable contribution to the war effort. He was 49 years old.

Yet the fact remains that the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club was briefly guided by one of the most powerful industrial figures in the world.

Want to know more about our heritage? See the GPYC Centennial History Book available in the Lobby.

By Past Commodore James L. Ramsey

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