A Message from the Commodore

Up to the Challenge

GPYC Adjusts to Necessary Safety Protocols, Still Delivers a Stellar Summer

Launching into the summer season at the Club was like finding your way in the dark. Not knowing what we could or could not do week to week challenged our creativity. Collectively the Board and management were committed to providing the best possible Club experience while protecting the staff and members. Some felt we were too cautious, and others felt we were far too open. We received numerous visits from state and local health departments verifying our adherence to the changing regulations. Each time we passed the inspections we were praised for our efforts. With strict protocols, developed from best practices, diligently enforced we were able to keep the Club operating and protect against any severe outbreaks amongst staff or membership. Creating new events with strict limitations and executing the normal summer swim, sail, and camp programs under the COVID-19 pandemic was difficult. Aaron and his team did an outstanding job and are to be commended. Some protocols that seemed onerous at first, such as reservations for the pool deck, became very popular with the membership and may continue next summer. Sadly, some events like our fireworks display had to be cancelled altogether but they will come back bigger next summer. The toned down Fourth of July celebration did not diminish the enthusiasm at the annual Pet Parade with dogs, lizards and butterflies in attendance. Chef Colby brought out some of his smoked specialties along with the usual favorites making for an outstanding barbeque event and, of course, with the great weather, the Gazebo Bar was hopping. The summer rendezvous were a great way to escape the world for a while, and I want to thank Vice Commodore Gary Marowske for once again taking the lead on these. The individual chairs for each event all did an outstanding job making this summer tradition a success. Fleet Review weekend offered another way for boaters and non-boaters to enjoy the Club. We had an unexpected number of boats decorated for Harbor Lights Night and ran out of gifts. Not to worry as those will be in and delivered before you read this. Following that, the boat parade and Fleet Review dinner were very well attended albeit with a limitation on the dinner attendance. Chris and I appreciate the support of the membership and the work of the management and staff that went into making this weekend special for all. Speaking of support, I want to thank all the members for their continued support of our Club. The health and future of our Club rely on strong membership commitment, and we have seen tremendous support through these last six months. So many of our members have sponsored their friends and associates this summer despite these difficult times. I am always excited to meet with the new candidates for membership. The youth and enthusiasm for GPYC that I see in those entering the Club can only be a positive influence on our future. As we look to that future, I want to foreshadow some things that will roll out over the next several months. The Board has been hard at work developing Vision 2026, our long-term strategic plan. Addressing both the long-term maintenance of our historic clubhouse and the future changes to our harbor and facilities, Vision 2026 is meant to be a rolling five-year plan to guide future Boards and management. Consistency in direction will facilitate a fundable plan that members can be confident in as the Club moves forward. The changing demographics of our membership will demand facilities and programs that meet their changing expectations while maintaining the traditions that have made GPYC one of the top yacht clubs in the world. Look for more on this soon.

Again, Chris and I want to thank you for your support through an interesting summer. We have a lot more fun planned this fall and winter, so stay tuned. See you at the Club!

Gary Gonzalez