June is in full swing, and with that comes the sowing of new seeds. The herb garden is planted, tomatoes are ready with stakes in place to support their growth, boats are polished and shined in the water, and the air is filled with new beginnings. A couple of weeks ago, an event captured this spirit of hope and bright eyes toward the future—it lifted my heart and spirits.
It was an annual event held at our club: the Past Commodore–New Member evening. On this night, we traded in our weekend bottom-grinding and painting clothes to celebrate the club’s past and future. A large crowd arrived, dressed in their finest summer dresses and blue blazers. Deviled eggs and other beautiful hors d’oeuvres were passed, and hands held Dark and Stormy’s and stemware filled with wine. The evening’s first recognition and toast went to our past commodores.
Let me take a moment to say—if you run into one at your own club, be sure to say thanks. While the title may carry prestige, it’s often a full-time side gig for those who volunteer. A sometimes thankless one, at that. They, along with other board members, are the wizards behind the scenes, making sure everything is ready the moment we step onto the docks to enjoy our summer of fun and leisure. The facility is immaculate thanks to the stewards they hire and the volunteers they guide. The docks are sound, worn boards replaced. From the ice maker that fills our coolers and cocktails, to researching vendors for the best WiFi, the commodore and their counterparts have spent countless hours thinking of all the little things—so we don’t have to. These individuals have risen through the ranks—from board member to vice commodore to commodore—putting in years of service. So a night that recognized every one of them was a moment to show up and show gratitude.
The other part of the evening welcomed new members. On this night, six individuals and families were officially brought into our club. I’m not sure how other clubs handle new membership, but for ours, it’s often years in the making, due to the club’s size and charter. After submitting sponsor letters, attending events, and waiting patiently on the list, these members were finally welcomed into the family (because that’s what we are at our club—a family). Some were new faces; others were legacies we saw grow up on Optis and swing sets. They are the future of the club. Fresh faces, fresh ideas—and who knows? Maybe our future commodore was standing among them.
So that sums up a perfect night: the past and present joined together through love for a building on the water. A place that reflects our shared love of boating, tradition, camaraderie, support, and friendship.
BREAKING NEWS…
Shortly after Squall Girl penned this heartfelt piece, she received a very special message—her very own kiddo was voted in as a new member of RIYC! From Opti kid to member in a 20-year span. Welcome to the club, son. We’ll toast to your membership at the next Thursday night picnic.
Amy Leger
This is one of my favorite parties at RIYC! As a Past Commodore, it is great to be recognized for all of the hard work. We are fortunate as a club to have so many volunteers who work tirelessly to keep our club running smoothly!