Smooth Sailing Newsletter ~ February 2025

Page 1


Smooth Sailing

HOURS of OPERATION CONTACT & Connect With Us

General Manager - Bruce Furman, CCM (727) 823-1219 | gm@spyc.org

Chief Financial Officer - Colleen Finney, CHAE (727) 823-1061 | controller@spyc.org

Waterfront & Club Communications Director Corey Hall, CMO (727) 822-3113 | Waterfront-director@spyc.org

Membership Department (727) 892-6888 | Membership@spyc.org

Facilities Director - Steve Partridge (727) 892-6892 | facilitiesmgr@spyc.org

Food & Beverage Director - Jason Hooper (727) 892-6896 | FBDirector@spyc.org

Executive Chef - Christian Mayrhofer (727) 892-6889 | executivechef@spyc.org

Catering Director/Clubhouse Services Manager Shannon Nylander, CPCE ,WSET2 (727) 892-6882 | catering@spyc.org

Catering Assistant - Caroline Stehr (727) 892-6897 | cateringinfo@spyc.org

Executive Pastry Chef - Natalia Nunez Torres (727) 822-3873 ext. 223 | pastrychef@spyc.org

Beverage Manager - Pierre Dumaine (727) 892-6891 | pierre@spyc.org

Member Services/Marketing Coordinator - Leah Wieter (727) 892-6893 | member.services@spyc.org

Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse Coordinator - Delora Croteau (727) 360-1646 | Pag@spyc.org

Harbormaster, Chase Hudspeth & Dockmaster, John Toberman (727) 822-3227 | harbormaster@spyc.org - dockmaster@spyc.org

Youth Sailing Director - Todd Fedyszyn (727) 896-8101 youthsailingdirector@spyc.org

Housekeeping Manager - Stacey Darlington (727) 892-6894 | housekeeping@spyc.org

Downtown Clubhouse: (727) 822-3873

Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse: (727) 360-1646

Snell Isle Marina: (727) 895-8142

DOWNTOWN CLUB:

OPEN: Tuesday - Sunday CLOSED: Monday

TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY

Open 7:30 am - 9:30 pm

FRIDAY

Open 7:30 am - 11:00 pm

SATURDAY

Open 8:30 am - 11:00 pm

SUNDAY

Open 11:00 am - 9:00 pm

BREAKFAST BUFFET

Tuesday - Friday: 7:30 - 9:30 am

Saturday: 8:30 - 10:45 am

Sunday Brunch Buffet: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

(Brunch reservations strongly suggested)

GRILLE 1909 ~ Winter Hours

Dinner Service (Wednesday - Saturday):** NEW Hours: 5:00 - 9:00 pm (full-menu) 5:00 - 8:30 pm (Sunday)**

1909 Entertainment: Wed., Thurs., Fri., & Sat.

Smooth Piano ~ 6:00 - 9:00 pm 5:30 - 8:30 pm (Sunday)

HERITAGE LOUNGE

Lunch Service:

Tues. - Sun. 11:30 am - 5:30 pm (Express Lunch Buffet every Wednesday & Friday 11:30 am -2:00 pm)

Dinner Service:

Tues. - Sat: 5:00 - 9:00 pm ** Sun., - 5:00 - 8:30 pm **

Late Night Menu: 9:00 -11:00 pm (Friday & Saturday)

LOUNGE ENTERTAINMENT

Friday & Saturday: 7:00 - 11:00 pm

FINAL FRIDAY MUSIC every month in the lounge! Enjoy a new, local, fun band.

TIKI BAR ~ Winter Hours

Tiki Menu Available Thurs., - Sun. Tues. & Wed.: 5:00 - 9:00 pm (drinks only) Thursday: 5:00 - 9:00 pm Friday: 5:00 - 11:00 pm Saturday: 1:00 - 11:00 pm Sunday: 1:00 - 7:30 pm (LIVE Music only on Saturday 7:00 - 10:00 pm & Sunday 3:00 -5:00 pm - weather permitting)**

PASS-A-GRILLE CLUB

Temporary Hours:

Pool Deck open Saturday, Sunday & Monday - 11:00 am6:00 pm (weather permitting) Limited menu offered. Come by boat or car.

** Denotes a recent change was made to the hours of operation for a specific outlet or location. (Times are subject to change)

DINING RESERVATIONS & DIETARY RESTRICTIONS

Reservations can be made online at www.spyc.org, or on your SPYC mobile app. If you are unable to keep your reservation, please contact us as soon as possible. It will permit us to offer a greater choice of time and size of party to your fellow members. A fee of $10/pp will be assessed for no shows. If you have any dietary restrictions please make note of that when you are making your reservation. When special dietary requests are made during the event (for vegetarian, gluten free, etc.), there will be an additional fee of $10++/per request added on and to the original meal price. Thank you for your understanding.

» CONTACT US/MEMBERSHIP/COMMODORE'S LOG - PAGES 2 - 5

» ON THE WATER - PAGES 4 - 9

» AROUND THE CLUB - PAGES 10 & 11

» LOOK FORWARD/RECURRING - PAGES 12 & 13

» WHAT'S HAPPENING - PAGES 14 - 21

» CLUBS WITHIN THE CLUB - PAGES 22 - 27

CHAPTER FOUR

COMMODORE’S LOG

Dear fellow members...

It was great to see so many of our members attend the Florida Council of Yacht Club (FCYC) meeting. The FCYC was founded in 1960 and currently consists of 36 yacht clubs throughout the state of Florida. SPYC is one of the original 13 founding clubs. (Interestingly, our Pass-a-Grille Yacht Club was also one of the original 13 back when it was independent.) All members enjoy reciprocal privileges for dining and yachting at other clubs belonging to the FCYC. Be sure to call ahead to confirm reservations, as some clubs have restrictions. I think we did our Club proud in hosting the event as I heard many compliments from the attendees.

January had a flurry of activities with an interesting Taiko Japanese Drum performance (heard throughout the Club); an 80’s Murder Mystery Dinner; a Wellness Day; and I again hosted Coffee with the Commodore. I continue to learn from our members and take that information to the GM, Flag and Board.

Our regatta season was well underway with the Salt Pines Regatta, Master Driver Team Race, and the USODA Team Race This month we will be hosting the Valentines Day Regatta, on February 8th-9th, so get ready for hundreds of young sailors competing. The following weekend is the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta Series, one of the five regattas over the summer with the winners competing in the championship at the end of October. This is a huge event for the Club and our St. Petersburg community. Then on February 20th-23rd is the International Laser Class Midwinter East Regatta. Our Race Committee continues to amaze me with great preparation and organization.

Mark your calendars for March 2nd and our 20th Annual Grand Prix Garage Party and then on March 28th for the Annual Blessing of the Fleet. More to follow next month.

Lastly and certainly not least, our Building Redevelopment Oversight Committee (BROC) continues working with our GM and Harvard Jolly Architects on a concept plan for our new building. Space allocations have been addressed based upon the information from all of you in the 2021 membership survey and discussions have focused on interior use of space, more outdoor dining and the flow of service, such as having the kitchen next to the dining room.

To that end I have asked for a Town Hall type meeting to be held on February 25 at 5:00 pm, allowing BROC to update the members and allow questions and comments. We are still early in the planning process, comments and discussing ideas are important to arrive at a good plan. This meeting is primarily informational but will allow members to comment. As you know, my goal this year is to improve communication from leadership to the members and this meeting will allow all to be informed of the on-going Master Planning process.

Last year some of you may have heard PC Scott Boyle’s wife Terri, and this year, my wife Theresa, being addressed as “Commadorable.” When I first heard Terri addressed by that name, I thought it was a cute nickname, and it is . . . . but there is more to the story. The name is not new at all. It seems that Terri found a news article from 1962, when John Rhodes was the Commodore of then independent Pass-a-Grille Yacht Club and his wife, Sandy, was addressed as the Commadorable Well John Rhodes was Terri’s father. So, the name carries on. Now you know the rest of the story....

Cordially,

Want to Propose a New Member?

Please reach out to our Membership Department for information about joining the Club at: (727) 892-6888 membership@spyc.org

Have You Tried Out the

NEW SPYC Listening Tool?

Last month we launched our new SPYC Listening Post—a convenient tool for members to share their club experiences directly with us. Similar to an online comment card, this platform allows our team to track feedback, respond effectively, and ensure we’re meeting your needs.

We’d love for you to give it a try and let us know what you think. Your input is invaluable in helping us create the best possible experience for our members.

Access the Listening Post at the link below: https://app.memberconnect.com/surveys/listening_ post/ea7ee6a7-912d-4a8f-8e04-3722726e4351

Thank you for helping us make SPYC even better!

ACTIVE BOAT:

Ms. Mary Denise Grady

Mrs. Christine Scofield & Mr. Edward Scofield

ACTIVE:

Mr. James Lavin & Mrs. Suzanne Lavin

INTERMEDIATE:

Mrs. Caitlin Perreault & Mr. Chris Perreault

Thank You Proposers!

The Club relies on our members proposals and we Thank You for your support.

Wendy Hurdy | Mathew McNulty Lela & Blanton Garnet

THIS MONTH!

JOIN US FOR THE SPYC TOWN HALL MEETING WITH YOUR COMMODORE, BOARD OF DIRECTORS & GENERAL MANAGER.

WHEN: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 25TH TIME: 5:00 PM

DISCUSSING IMPORTANT CLUB TOPICS AND UPDATES | OPEN MIC Q&A SESSION (RESERVATIONS NOT REQUIRED)

An Unforgettable Weekend at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club:

USODA TEAM RACE MIDWINTER CHAMPIONSHIP

The St. Petersburg Yacht Club was proud to host the USODA Team Race Midwinter Championship, a thrilling weekend of competitive sailing that brought together some of the most talented junior sailors in the country. This event was a resounding success, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our members, staff, and volunteers, who showcased the very best of SPYC hospitality and community spirit.

The Power of Volunteers: We extend our deepest gratitude to the SPYC members who generously spent their holiday weekend ensuring the event’s success. To those who served on the race committee, your expertise and commitment were instrumental in providing the sailors with a fair, seamless racing experience. Equally, we thank the members who supported the event onshore, assisting with logistics, ensuring the comfort of sailors and their families, and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Your efforts exemplify what makes SPYC a beacon of excellence in the sailing world.

Honoring Our Junior Sailors: A special congratulations to all the SPYC junior sailors and their families for their exceptional performances throughout the weekend. The team of SPYC Thunder, featuring Dalton Cellamare, Constantino Conrad, Tucker Gowens, Bennett Lamb, and Thomas Weidner, delivered a stellar performance to clinch the Gold Fleet Championship. This remarkable victory qualifies them to represent the USODA at the  Trofeo Marco Rizzotti Team Race in Italy, May 22–25, 2025.

SPYC Ice and all our junior sailors demonstrated extraordinary sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance, reminding us why the future of sailing is so bright. You’ve made us incredibly proud!

Looking Ahead:

The USODA Team Race Midwinter Championship highlighted not only the incredible talent of junior sailors but also the dedication of the SPYC community in supporting these rising stars. This weekend reaffirmed why SPYC remains a leader in fostering sailing excellence and community camaraderie.

As we celebrate this successful event, we eagerly look forward to welcoming sailors and families back in February for the Valentine’s Regatta, promising another weekend of exciting competition and SPYC hospitality. Together, we continue to build a legacy of excellence in sailing. Thank you to everyone who made this weekend so memorable!

MASTER DRIVER TEAM RACE REGATTA MASTER DRIVER TEAM RACE REGATTA

St Petersburg Yacht Club was honored to host this 17th Annual Master Driver Team Race Regatta the weekend of January 10th -12th, 2025. This year four teams of six sailors each participated in J/70s on Tampa Bay to compete in this 2-on-2, team sailboat racing event. Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club won the event for the third year in a row; with strong competition from St. Petersburg Yacht Club in second place. Texas Corinthian Yacht Club came third followed by New York Yacht Club.

It is always exciting to watch as two J/70s battle competitively against an opposing team of two J/70s on a short windward leeward course, taking nine to fifteen minutes to complete a flight in this round robin event. Four umpires headed by Carrie Greene, Phil Pape, Rick Myers and Rob Rowlands kept the rival, sometimes aggressive boat handling within the rules and called the infractions and penalties.

Our two teams were made up of Skipper David Mendelblatt, Kevin Reali, Matt Braun and Skipper Mike Funsch, Mitchel Rogers and Ashley Reali.

Our PRO was Todd Fedyszyn with RC of Helle Getz, Barbara Mehaffey, Gina Bowden Pierce and Janet Walker (Chair), plus a mark boat with Michael Blacker and Robert Hopkins Bosun was Kyle Runnfeldt Rich and Char Doyle, the founder of this regatta kept tabs on the proceeding from shore.

Many thanks go to the staff of the SPYC Sailing Center staff, especially Alan Capellin and the SPYC staff for making this regatta a success.

MASTER DRIVER TEAM RACING COMPETITION

Dring the weekend of January 11–12, 2025, SPYC hosted the 17th Annual Master Driver Team Racing competition. In this particular article we would like to cover some of the history behind this competition.

The Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club in Oyster Bay, New York (founded in Sept. 1871) is credited with being the first club in the United States to host team racing competitions. The club has a long history of team racing, including being the steward of the British-American Cup first contested in 1921. Continuing with this tradition, Seawanhaka has created significant other international team racing regattas and hosts various team racing events for all skill levels of racers throughout the year as well as participating in numerous team racing regattas across the United States and Internationally.

Seawanhaka’s AL Constants presenting the Seawanhaka YC burgee to P/C Pat Seidenspinner, March 2005.

The first team racing meeting between SPYC and Seawanhaka YC was initiated between P/C Pat Seidenspinner and Al Constants and occurred in St. Pete in the spring of 2004. This first competition was sailed in Sonar s , 3-on-3 no spinnaker. That October, the SPYC team travelled to Oyster Bay. During the days of chilly and breezy racing, Sonars were sailed once again, but this time, with spinnakers. There was one last meeting of the teams in March 2005, again in St. Pete, and again in Sonars, but without spinnakers. With Seawanhaka winning all three competitions – No surprise there, since S eawanhaka’s younger sailors team race on a regular basis, even competing internationally – Char & Rich Doyle came up with the idea to level the playing field a bit by inviting other clubs and making this a Master ’s event 3-on-3 format open to skippers 45 years old or older and eliminating those troublesome spinnakers!

More and more regatta organizers are seeing the need to create sailing competitions in which our more mature citizens can participate In 2010, the New York Yacht Club Team Racing Committee invited SPYC to participate in the inaugural Hinman Grandmasters Team Racing Regatta at Harbour Court, Newport, RI, August 7 -8. The regatta featured 3-on-3 team racing in the Club’s fleet of Sonars, skippers to be at least 60, the crew at least 50, and no chutes!

Account from Char Doyle: “They started this regatta because they were so impressed by our team last year (2009), as in even though we only won one race, they thought it was fantastic that we older people were still gamely leaping around a Sonar, and trying really hard to beat them !”

[Note: NYYC P/C George R. Hinman , for whom the Hinman trophy was named, participated in that 2009 regatta and saw the need (probably during cocktails when the idea was suggested by SPYC’s Char Doyle & Trisha Birkenstock) to make the regatta more user friendly for those over the age of 40. Amazing the nerve one gets after having a cocktail – it was those Dark `N’ Stormys!]

SPYCthanksP/CRich&CharDoyleforpromoting,organizing andparticipatinginteamracingeventshereatSPYCforthelast decadeorso.Wethankthemfortheirinvolvement, supportandenthusiasmforthesport!

See you in t the Hallways - SOON! Trisha Birkenstock, SPYC Historian

Many thanks to All who have contributed in some way to this article.

THE SALT PINES CUP

Ocean Racing Regatta

The Ocean Racing Committee launched the 2025 regatta season with the inaugural Salt Pines Cup, a distance race from St. Petersburg to Clearwater, FL. Cruising Class (PHRF) ran a 70nm race while Spinnaker Class (ORC) boats ran a 100nm course down Tampa Bay, out into the Gulf and north to Clearwater. The race provided smooth evening sunset sailing, late night doldrums and stormy winds and rain to make the finish.

The first Cruiser finished their 70 miles in 15 hours, the first Spinnaker boat finished their 100 miles in 16 hours. Awards for first place went to the following: Cruising Class boat 'Slow Bell', a Mirage 33, Skippered by Jeff Lewis of the St Petersburg Sailing Association and Spinnaker Class boat L30 15, an L30, Skippered by Rodion Luka of the Kyiv Racing Yacht Club. And congratulations to the 42 crew members who rallied the boats around the course.

Many thanks to the Clearwater Yacht Club for hosting the arriving boats. The awards ceremony coincided with the CYC’s Gasparilla celebration and we did our best to participate. Our pirate Ocean Racing Chairman, Joe Toth helped PRO Paul Goodman present flags to the winners.

TWILIGHT SAILING SERIES 2025

This Club has staged our summer “fun” races for more than 50 years. Just as Past Commodore, Bill Ballard, said in 1973, ” the formal racing season has ended, let’s get out there on our boats and have some fun.” The series begins Friday, March 14th. And now, in todays world, we also have our fleet of boats, J/70s and Sonars. (They should be reserved by reaching out to the Sailing Center.)

Conditions permitting, we will race every Friday until the end of August. There will be Spinnaker, Non-Spinnaker, Cruising and One-Design classes. The races start around 6:30 pm. They last about an hour and debriefing often occurs at the Tiki Hut.

Emma Hunter, Elizabeth Austin, Ocean Racing Chair, Joe Toth, Salty Sister Kate Clardy & Liz Fahsbender at the awards party. Our 2024 3rd place ladies competed in a Club Sonar, spinnaker class, dubbed “Eeek”.

Further information is available, www.spyc.org/Regattas, St Petersburg Yacht Club Twilight Series. Get that boat bottom extra cleaned or get checked out on one of our fleet boats, and prepare to celebrate the end of the season in September.

FEBRUARY 2025 DOWNTOWN EVENTS

Feb. 1: YOGA Class ~ 8:30 am

Feb. 2: MAMMA MIA Pre-Theater Dinner & Show @ the STRAZ

Feb. 4: Golf Group

Feb. 4: Ladies Beach Club Mah Jongg Tournament

Feb. 5: Salty Sisters ~ Valentine's Luncheon

Feb. 5: TRIVIA Night ~ 7:00 pm

Feb. 6: Cruising Fleet

Feb. 6: Woman's Club

Feb. 8: YOGA Class ~ 8:30 am

Feb. 9: Kids Sunday Stories ~ Regatta Room ~ 6:00 pm

Feb. 11: Themed Dinner Buffet ~ Carnival of Venice, 5:00 - 9:00 pm

Feb. 12: Salty Sisters

Feb. 12: Saltwater Anglers

Feb. 12: Wing Shooters Society

Feb. 14: Special Valentine's Day Menu in Grille 1909

Feb. 15: YOGA Class ~ 8:30 am

Feb. 19: Wine Society Night 1 ~ 6:00 pm - Spain

Feb. 20: Wine Society Night 2 ~ 6:00 pm - Spain

Feb. 20: Wine Society Prix-Fixe Dinner

Feb. 22: Escoffier Dinner ~ 6:00 pm

Feb. 22: YOGA Class ~ 8:30 am

Feb. 26: Salty Sisters

February 1: John Jennings Regatta

February 8/9: Valentine's day Regatta

February 14-16: HHSWRS

February 20-23: ILCA Midwinters East

Congratulations to our 2024 Employee of the Year, Jonathan Rivera!

Jonathan is a 16-year employee that worked his way up to Beverage Supervisor – a jack of all trades that is always willing to help the members and his fellow co-workers whenever needed. He is dedicated to the Club, giving incredible service day in and day out, and we hope he continues to call us home for another 16 years plus – thank you Jonathan for your loyalty and commitment - it is with great honor and appreciation that we named you our 2024 Employee of the Year!

OMarch 8: Pennington Cup

March 16-19: Winter Lightning ChampIONSHIP

March 21-25: North Gulf Coast Challenge

April 5: 81 Bay Regatta

April 25-27: Suncoast Race Week

https://www.spyc.org/Regattas

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR RUNNER-UP!

ur 2024 Employee of the Year Runner-Up is Dani D’Aloia, our Supervisor downstairs in the Lounge!

Dani has been a part of the service team since 2018 and has proven to be a rising star. She leads by example and is a constant reminder to others that hard work and dedication do pay off. She sets the standard for all to follow and takes great pride in her work, helping out wherever needed – all traits that make her a superstar - Job well done and Congratulations Dani!

JANUARY 2025

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

JESSE PAINE

Please join us in congratulating Jesse Paine for once again being named Employee of the Month! Since being displaced from the Pass-a-Grille Clubhouse, Jesse has made himself indispensable assisting the main Club in many areas, while also now working at PAG on weekends. Lately, Jesse has been working with our Maintenance Department, however, a few weekends ago, he had stopped by the main Club picking up supplies and a Maintenance call came in – Jesse didn’t hesitate, finished what he was doing for PAG, and then completed the task needed at the main Club.

That is teamwork at its best, and why Jesse deserves the title of Employee of the Month. If you see him around the Club, be sure to give him a well-deserved “thank you” for all that he does!

Should you pass by a table with a Pineapple Burgee on it, please take a minute to introduce yourself and give the new member a warm welcome to SPYC.

The Pineapple has been a universal symbol of hospitality and welcome for many centuries all over the world. At the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, one of the ways we recognize new members is to place a Pineapple Burgee upon their dining table when visiting the Club.

FEBRUARY 2025

· Jonathan Rivera ~ Beverage Supervisor, 16 yrs

· Alysia Wenckoski ~ PAG Server, 12 yrs

· Rabia Sookdeo ~ Banquet Server, 9 yrs

· Jonathan Lopes ~ PAG Kitchen Supervisor, 7 yrs

· Helena Taylor ~ Accounts Receivable, 5 yrs

· Sheka Quarterman ~ Banquet Supervisor, 3 yrs

· Trayton White ~ Valet, 2 yrs

· Gregory Collins ~ Barback, 2 yrs

· Eli Baker ~ Steward, 2 yrs

· Yailen Guerrero ~ Steward, 1 yr

Our Beloved SPYC Family & Friends

PAST COMMODORE Harry Michael Moorefield

December 26, 2024

Member Since ~ 1967

Mr. Merrill Burchard December 21, 2024 - Member Since ~ 1999

Wine Society

SPYC 2025 · MARK YOUR CALENDAR ·

Wine Dinner

RSVP for Holiday Events

MARCH

2nd: 20th Annual Grand Prix Garage Party & VIP Party! (reservations required)

5th: TRIVIA NIGHT!

7th: Reggae at the Tiki ~ Complimentary to attend

8th: An Afternoon with Ambassador Christopher R. Hill (SPYC Speaker Series)

9th: Kids Sunday Stories ~ Regatta Room

15th: Japanese Gourmet Wine Dinner

16th: St. Patrick's Day Brunch with Irish Dancers performing!

19th: IKEBANA Floral Demonstration & Luncheon

19th: Wine Society, Night 1 ~ Merryvale, Napa

20th: Wine Society, Night 2 ~ Merryvale, Napa

20th: Wine Society Prix-Fixe Dinner (open to all members, not just Wine Society)

21st: Karaoke in the Lounge! ~ 6:00 - 9:00 pm ~ Complimentary to attend

28th: Key West Street Party & Dock Grand Opening

30th: Annual Blessing of the Fleet followed by the Annual Jazz Brunch

APRIL

2nd: TRIVIA NIGHT!

5th: SPYC's Sip & Swap Meet ~ Complimentary to attend ~ Members Only

8th: Themed Dinner Buffet Night ~ "Fresh From Florida"

12th: Comedy Night @ SPYC (21 & Up)

13th: Kids Sunday Stories ~ Regatta Room

16th: Wine Society, Night 1 ~ Bertani, Italy

17th: Wine Society, Night 2 ~ Bertani, Italy

17th: Wine Society Prix-Fixe Dinner (open to all members, not just Wine Society)

19th: Easter Bunny Breakfast (Reservations Required)

20th: Easter Sunday Champagne Brunch (Reservations Required)

Recurring Events & Dining Info

WINE SOCIETY DATES

Downtown

» Wed., Feb. 19th · 6:00 pm

» Thurs., Feb. 20th · 6:00 pm

» Wed., March 19th · 6:00 pm

» Thurs., March 20th · 6:00 pm

Pass-a-Grille:

Stay tuned for future Wine Society dates at PAG

Downtown Prix- Fixe Wine Society Dinners

Thurs., February 20th & March 20th · 7:15 pm

Reservations required - Call (727) 822-3873

This is open to ALL members of the SPYC . You do not have to be a Wine Society member to enjoy the Prix-Fixe Wine Society Dinner.

February 5th & March 5th

MONTHLY TRIVIA

6:00 pm | Includes Dinner

$30/pp ~ RSVP: www.spyc.org or (727) 892-6882

*Price is inclusive of service charge & tax

Every Saturday Morning

8:30 - 9:30 am

$8/per session, per person

RSVP Online: www.spyc.org

NOTE: NO YOGA Classes on February 15th & April 19th

Regatta & Tiki

& Thursday

- 7:00 pm

Tuesday - Friday 7:30 - 9:30 am

Saturday 8:30 - 10:45 am

$12++/pp (members)

$14++/pp (non-members)

$5++/per child ages 4-12

Reservations not required

NOTE: NO Regular Breakfast on Saturday, April 19th due to the Easter Bunny Brunch

2nd Tuesday of the Month

Feb. 11th: Carnival of Venice

March: No Theme Night

From 5:00 - 9:00 pm

$32++/pp

$15++/per child ages 4-12

Dinner Reservations Online or call (727) 822-3873 ext 211

11:00 am - 2:00 pm

$32++/per adult

$15++/per child ages 4-12

Reservations strongly suggested: (727) 892-6882 or 6897

Every Wednesday & Friday

From 11:30 am - 2:00 pm

$15++/pp (member)

$18++/pp (non-member)

$7++/per child ages 4-12

(Reservations Not Required)

20th ANNUAL

GRAND PRIX Garage Party

Garage Party Package!

Garage Party Check-In From: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm in the Front Lobby

Max of 4 tickets per membership (Members & their guests) Space is LIMITED!

» $125/per adult

» $95/Ages 13-17

» $70/Ages 4-12

» 3 & under are complimentary

(Note: This event is not recommended for small children & infants - prices are inclusive of service charge & tax)

OR

INCLUDES:

Buffet starting at 11:30 am until the conclusion of the race

Complimentary Keg Beer, House Wine & Sodas! PFO Bar (pay for own) for all other drinks.

*NOTABLE ITEMS: The Grille 1909 & Sunday Brunch will be unavailable on this day. Heritage Lounge & Tiki Bar will OPEN at 10:30 am*

Join us for this EXCLUSIVE party overlooking a portion of the Grand Prix race track!

( LIMITED to 60 people - Must be 21 & over - SPYC Members Only) MENU:

$321/pp

(inclusive of service charge & tax)

Australian Rack of Lamb

Snow Crab Claws

Tandoori Chicken Brochettes

Warm Lobster Bites

House-made Snacks

Build Your Own Shortcake & MUCH MORE!!

Open Bar with Premium Liquors

Exclusive Party Favors

Air-conditioned Lounge with Upscale Cocktail Seating TV’s for full Race Viewing PLUS you also get full access to the Garage Party!

Reservations required to attend either party www.spyc.org | (727) 892-6882 OR 6897 | catering@spyc.org (Online Reservations NOT available for the VIP Party - please call or email) *Cancellations will be honored until Thursday, February 27th by 5:00 pm; if cancelled after this time, your original reservation will be charged in full.*

A successful entrepreneur and professional driver, meet with Kevin Buckler, the owner and founder of - The Racers Group (TRG), TRG-Aston Martin Racing and Adobe Road Winery.

Tapas Style Food Tastings Featuring Adobe Road Wines

Wednesday, February 26th · 6:00 pm

Downtown Clubhouse

Pricing: $50/pp (inclusive of service charge & tax)

NOTE: This is a Cocktail Style Party, not a Dinner

Grand Prix Pre-Race Wine & Food Tasting Experience

Come down to kick off the race weekend with this culinary delight. Chef has prepared a tasting menu complimenting a variety of wines. A fun way to try it all!

Reservations Required: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org

OR call (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

SPYC Speaker Series ▯ An Afternoon With

Christopher R. Hill

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Serbia

Saturday, March 8th · 4:00 - 6:00 pm

Downtown Clubhouse

Pricing: $15/pp (inclusive of service charge & tax)

Includes Light Hors d'Oeuvres & Refreshments (PFO Bar Available)

Ambassador & Author Christopher R. Hill will join us and speak on his time as a Foreign Service Officer, the future challenges of foreign policy and about his book, "Outpost ~ Life on the Frontlines of American Diplomacy"

View more about his book, or to purchase one to have it autographed at this event, please visit: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Outpost/Christopher-R-Hill/9781451685930

Reservations Required: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org OR call (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

Christopher R. Hill arrived in Belgrade on March 31, 2022. He previously served as the U.S. Ambassador to Iraq, Korea, Poland, and Macedonia, as Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, and as Head of the U.S. delegation to the 6 Party Talks on North Korea. Earlier in his diplomatic career, Hill was the special envoy for the Kosovo crisis and prior to that was a member of the U.S. negotiating team whose efforts led to the Dayton Peace Agreement, ending the Bosnian war.

Japanese Inspired Gourmet Wine Dinner

Saturday, March 15th 6:00 pm · Downtown Clubhouse

Reservations: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org | 727-892-6882 or 6897

48-hour cancellation policy in effect | Price is inclusive of service charge & sales tax

$150/pp inclusive of service charge & tax

Reception: Sphere of Rock Shrimp and Shitake Mushroom Tempura with pickled Green Apple & Salmon Roe Kewpie Paired with Forgotten Fortune Junmai Sake

1st Course: Pacific Bonito roasted over dried rice Straw, Black garlic Shoyu Soft Quail egg & Warm Short Grain Rice Paired with Luis Seabra Xisto Ilitado Branco a refreshing white wine from Duoro, Portugal

2nd Course: Togorashi Spice Seared Duck Breast, Petite Mizzuna, Blonde Miso Vinaigrette Paired with Rihaku Shuzo, Dreamy Clouds Tokubetsu Junmai Nigori Sake

3rd Course: Robata Grilled American A5 Wagyu Striploin, Smoked Peppercorn Glaze with Japanese Sweet Potato Mousseline Paired with Fisher Coach Insignia Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA

4th Course: Sweet Bento Box of Japanese style Cheesecake, Chilled Tangerine Raspberry Souffle & Chocolate Praline Paired with Tsukasabotan Brewery, Yamayuzu Shibori

St. Patrick's Day Brunch Annual St. Patrick's Day Brunch

Sunday, March 16th Downtown Clubhouse

11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Pricing: $62/per adult | $40/Ages 13-17

$33/Ages 4-12 | 3 & Under Complimentary (Inclusive of service charge & tax)

Make plans to join us for this Lucky Brunch!

Our amazing Brunch with even MORE dishes - Includes Bloody Mary's & Green Mimosas. Enjoy two LIVE performances by Irish Dancers at 11:30 am & 1:00 pm.

(NOTE: The complimentary corned beef & cabbage lunch will be available only at the Downtown Clubhouse. Located in the Heritage Lounge from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm ~ First come, first served ~ reservations not required.)

RSVP: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org, (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

SPYC

IKEBANA

Floral Demonstration & Luncheon with IKEBANA Artist/Instructor: Christine Donck-Guelton

Wednesday, March 19th Downtown Clubhouse

Pricing: $75/pp (inclusive of service charge & tax)

9:30 am: Doors Open | 10:30 am: Demo | 12:00 pm: Luncheon

RSVP: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org, (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

MENU

Bistro Salad & Choice of: Chicken California Casserole -OR- Caribbean Mahi -OR- Vegetable Quiche (please specify when making reservations) Rosemary Passion Fruit Panna Cotta for Dessert

K i d s Corner

SUNDAY STORIES ~ 6:00 pm 2nd Sunday of Each Month

Our NEXT Sunday Story time is Valentine's Themed... Come in you favorite Valentine's Day outfit!

While you dine in the Regatta Room, Megan from "The Story Garden" will read a couple of books during dinner. *Books will also be available for purchase from The Story Garden*

Don't Forget The Annual Jazz Brunch

following the Blessing of the Fleet Sunday, March 30th · 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

$70/Adults | $38/Ages 13-17

$30/Ages 4-12 | 3 & Under

Complimentary

Enjoy the Club's Classic Brunch with the addition of LIVE Jazz Music by the "St. Petersburg Saxophone Quartet"

Includes Mimosas & Bloody Mary's... Creole Chicken, Carved New York Strip, Cajun Honey Pork Loin, Chilled Shrimp Cocktail, Oysters on the 1/2 shell, Salads, Desserts & MORE!!

Reservations Required: www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org OR call (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

SPYC's ANNUAL

Sunday, March 30th · 11:00 am · Basin by the St. Pete Pier

Register online in your Member Portal at www.spyc.org

Log-in and visit the Member Central webpage for a Blessing of the Fleet blog post with a link to register.

Friday, March 28th · 6:00 - 10:00 pm

Downtown Clubhouse

Pricing: $75/pp (inclusive of service charge & tax)

Enjoy LIVE Music by the "Southshore Cruisers" and Street Entertainment: Jugglers, Aerialist, Sword Swallowing & MORE!

Dock access will be from 6:00 - 7:00 pm only (if you'd like to see the new docks)

Complimentary Beer & House Wine included

Menu Includes: Peel & Eat Shrimp, Conch Fritters, Cuban Roasted Pork Loin, Build your own Tacos with Blackened Mahi & Beef, Smoked Chicken Asado, Key West Inspired Desserts and so much more!!

RESERVATIONS REQUIRED:

www.spyc.org | catering@spyc.org OR call (727) 892-6882 or 6897

(48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect)

Easter Weekend

SATURDAY, APRIL 19th

Easter Bunny Breakfast

This year the kid’s festivities will be held the day before Easter! (Kids activities are ONLY available for those who sign-up and attend the Breakfast.)

Kids Activities ◆ 9:00 AM - NOON

Easter Bunny: 9:00 -11:30 am

Face Painting & Balloon Artist: 9:00 am - Noon

Magic Show: 11:00 - 11:30 am

Easter Egg Hunt: 11:45 am (North Lawn off the Front Porch)

*Age 12 & under only please*

Bunny Breakfast Reservations

A Fun & Special Breakfast

Buffet Featuring...

Fresh Fruit - Assorted Pastries - Yogurt Acai Parfaits

Bunny Pancakes - Omelet Station - Assorted Juices

( NOTE: NO regular Saturday Breakfast on this day due to this special event)

Space is Limited! NO Online Reservations ~ Call or Email to RSVP: (727) 892-6882 or 6897 ~ catering@spyc.org (48-Hour Cancellation Policy in affect)

$25/Adults ◆ $15/Ages 4-12 3 & Under are complimentary (inclusive of tax & service charge)

Easter Sunday

April 20th ◆ Downtown Club Hours

Clubhouse Opens · 11:00 am

Lounge ℅ 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

(Exclusive Lounge Menu)

Lounge ℅ 2:00 - 6:00 pm (Cocktails Only)

Tiki Bar ℅ 11:00 am - 6:00 pm (Cocktails Only)

Grille 1909 ℅ 1:00 - 5:00 pm

(Exclusive Easter Menu - last reservation at 5pm)

1909 Dinner Reservations Required: (727) 822-3873 ext. 211

Easter Sunday Champagne Brunch

SUNDAY, APRIL 20th

Enjoy your Easter Holiday at SPYC’s beautiful Brunch with added extras, traditional favorites & Champagne!

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Buffet Featuring...Chef Carved Rosemary Garlic Leg of Lamb

Spiral Ham - Chicken Saltimbocca - Smoked Fish & Gravalax

Chilled Shrimp & Oysters - Regular Brunch Favorites & MUCH MORE!!

$70/Adults

$38/Ages 13-17

$30/Ages 4-12

3 & Under are complimentary (inclusive of tax & service charge)

Brunch Reservations

NO Online Reservations

Call or Email to RSVP: (727) 892-6882 or 6897 catering@spyc.org (48-Hour Cancellation Policy in Effect)

Saturday, April 5th · Noon - 2:00 pm Downtown Clubhouse

Members Only Event - Join us for an afternoon of sustainable living at our Sip & Swap event! Members can enjoy sipping on beverages while swapping items they no longer need or want, whether it is something from your wardrobe, home decor, collection of books, games and more!! Sign-up for a table space with Catering. (All unswapped items must be taken with you at the end of the event).

▯ No Host Bar & Concessions Available for Purchase ▯

CATERING: (727) 892-6882 OR catering@spyc.org

Get Ready to Laugh 'till it Hurts!

A variety of comedians from St. Pete Stand-Up will be performing. Open Seating so come early to clam a good spot. (Service available for purchase)

* * * * * * * * * * * *

MATURE CONTENT: "R" RATED SHOW - 21 & UP

SIP & Comedy Night @ SPYC

Saturday, April 12th ℅ Downtown Clubhouse

Doors Open ℅ 6:30 pm

Food Served ℅ 6:30 - 8:00 pm Show Starts ℅ 8:00 pm

EARLY BIRD RATE! $20/pp - Before 3/12

$30/pp if you reserve after 3/13

Food truck style food opens at 6:30 pm inside the room. Looking for a full dinner? Make a reservation in the Grille 1909 OR walk into the Heritage Lounge before the show and then join the show after you dine. There will be bars in the room & drink specials ALL night!

Reservations Required: www.spyc.org catering@spyc.org - OR call (727) 892-6882 or 6897 (48-Hourcancellationpolicyineffect) *An Entertainment Committee Event*

December was a busy and memorable month for the Cruising Fleet, full of festive spirit and excitement! The re-opening of the downtown marina was a highly anticipated event, and the long weekend celebrations were the perfect way to mark it. Twenty cruising fleet boats cruised to our beautiful new docks for a weekend that included our Annual Awards & Holiday Party on Friday night and the Lighting of the Yachts Saturday night. It was a magical weekend, and seeing so many boats in the marina adorned with beautiful holiday lights added a special touch of cheer to the holiday season.

In December, twenty Day Trippers met at Doc Ford’s at the St. Pete Pier and enjoyed a wonderful lunch with a view. Cruisers came ready to compete in the Ugly Sweater Contest. The winner was selected by group vote, and Chris Roddey won for a beautiful (not ugly!) sweater adorned with festive holiday flamingos prancing on the beach.

We had a great turnout for our January 9th luncheon where we heard from John O’Keefe, Founder & Chairman of Yachtwave, a free yacht and boat maintenance app for boat owners. At the meeting, we reviewed plans for our two-week Commodore’s Cruise April 25th through May 10th. This year’s cruise is to Key West, with many cruisers planning to go on to the Bahamas.

On January 16th, the Cruising Fleet made our 3nd annual cruise to the Tampa Convention Center and a Tampa Bay Lightning game. Thirty cruisers gathered for dinner at Harpoon Harry’s prior to the game and then enjoyed an evening of cheering on the Bolts to an exciting OT victory!

Our annual Vessel Safety Checks by the US Coast Guard Auxiliary are scheduled for January 29th at the Downtown Docks. The Blessing of the Fleet is scheduled for March 30th in the basin by the St. Pete Pier. Both events are open to all SPYC members.

UPCOMING FLEET EVENTS

• Feb 6: Cruising Fleet Dinner – speaker Ryan Dilke, Assoc. Dir. of the Waterfront Program at Eckerd/Leader of the Eckerd College Search & Rescue team

•Feb 23-23: Cruise to Clearwater Yacht Club

•Mar 6: Cruising Fleet Luncheon with a presentation on Cruising to the Bahamas

•Mar 28-30: Cruise-in to Downtown Docks, Vessel Safety Checks & Blessing of the Fleet

Day Trippers
Day Trippers
Annual Awards
Annual Awards
Lighting of the Yachts
Lighting of the Yachts

Every February the Wing Shooters organize a quail hunting trip. For the fourth consecutive year, we have picked Boggy Pond Plantation in Moultrie, GA. Situated in the longleaf yellow pines of South Georgia, Boggy does not tip the scales of luxury even 1 degree. This is a true hunting camp with few amenities. The quarters are old houses moved to the property. Six houses in all, with two to five bedrooms in each structure. An entry room, bedrooms, bathrooms with hot water and secondhand furniture comprise the accommodations. A late 1800s schoolhouse serves as the lodge for meals and gatherings.

It's the hunting, trap shooting, meals and bar that brings us back. Good guides, dogs and plenty of birds provides great hunting in the adjacent fields. The trap machine is set on a dock at the edge of Boggy Pond. The dock is wide enough for four, standing abreast, to speed shoot at clay targets. There are lights for evening target shooting. The cooks provide a hearty breakfast, lunch and supper. This full-blown southern cooking is not exactly healthy and every plate is scraped clean. The bar is complimentary and well stocked.

This year’s hunting provides fare for the Wing Shooters annual wild game dinner to be held on February 13th at the home of Wayne Andrews

Those wishing to join the Wing Shooters Society are encouraged to contact Frank Robinson at fhr506@gmail.com

The Woman's Club is in for a real treat on Thursday, February 6th . Well known author and owner of south Pinellas County's "The Gabber Newspaper" , Cathy Salustri, is our speaker this month. Her portfolio is very impressive.

She has been featured by the New York Times travel section as editor of Backroads of Paradise , a travel narrative and driving tour of Florida. Cathy has studied under both Florida experts doctors Gary Mormino and Ray Arsenault.

You will learn new things about the Sunshine State and be impressed with her knowledge of Florida. Join us as we hear about her adventures with Walt Disney World as a tour guide - and, yes, she is also a private investigator! ( Note, the date is the 1st Thursday of the month and not the 2nd Thursday.)

We would also like to welcome the Ladies Beach Club members to our program for the cost of food while you are visiting our facilities until the Beach Club is renovated. Just sign up on the Club Calendar online at www.spyc. org . We look forward to seeing everyone at our February meeting!

We have an experienced, passionate group of riders that have traveled far and wide on motorcycles together. The Riders Club welcomes you to join us. Weather permitting, we usually gather on Thursday or Friday mornings for a ride.

The rides are very scenic and always involve a lunch somewhere unique and delicious. Like past years, in 2025 we will be taking multi-state rides and international trips on the "roads less travelled" over the summer months.

To join our group and to keep updated with our events, please contact James Irwin at: JamesIrwin1231@gmail.com

Cathy Salustri
Woman's Club Country Christmas Event - a good time was had by all!

Our Annual Broad Reacher Christmas Party & Gift Exchange was held on December 14th at the home of Mik Severini. She graciously offered to host the party this year, since the PAG Clubhouse is still under construction. The Broads all brought a dish to share, showing off their culinary expertise, so no one went home hungry. We had fun with the gift exchange, picking, choosing, and even “stealing”, but everyone kept on laughing. Everyone went home with something new or old, and a smile on their face.

Attending the party this year was Captain Gloria Davis, Race Captain Juliette Clarke, Mik Severini, Dana Kollman, KT Trudeau, Katie Rodgers, Tove Kullman, Jennifer Parramore, Suzanne Boohar, Bijie Ding, Barbara Watson, Anna Oleka, Audrey Orgo, and Carol Hansen.

We look forward to sailing in 2025, attending other FWSA events and of course, competing in the Annual Rainbow Regatta. The Broad Reachers will be hosting the Rainbow this year which will be held downtown at the Sailing Center.

Bijie having a good laugh
Juliette Clark
Broad Reachers Chritmas Party
Dana Kollman
Enjoying the spread!
Tove (stealing) a gift

The Salty Sisters were scheduled to organize two regattas this season for FWSA. Due to hurricanes Helene and Milton, they were combined into the Crewed Boat Challenge on December 11th and 12th. This Regatta invited women from FWSA to sail Ideal 18s and Sonars at the SPYC Sailing Center. The weather did not cooperate, producing 30 knot wind gusts on practice and race days. The Salty Sisters Race Committee saved the day with a hugely successful competitive event on land, including gutter racing, candy cane grabbing and poker run. Twenty-four sailors from five clubs, cheered on by abundant spectators and volunteers, laughed and giggled throughout the day!

A thank you note from one of the participating clubs:

“The moment we arrived at the St. Pete Sailing Center and Yacht Club to compete (fun games) in the Plan B's morning activities, we were greeted with high energy, laughter and camaraderie. It was a festive time.

The Salty Sisters were so thoughtful in providing morning coffee, donuts and water, and most importantly their creativity in organizing Plan B. Salty Sisters, your encouragement in getting us to fully participate in the crazy games made Thursday morning's Plan B a blast; and on top of all that, the luncheon was delicious.

Let's just say we all needed this and we are so grateful for your Plan B. It lifted our spirits to be together, to laugh at ourselves and to feel so joyful.”

The Salty Sisters ended 2024 with a very festive Christmas Party with more than 110 current and past Salty Sisters in attendance. There was live music, scenes from past Salty skits and even a visit from Santa!!!

Capt. Beverly Smoak & Co-Capt. Mik Severini with Santa
FWSA Gutter Races
PC Gina Bowden-Pierce & PC Els Wiemken
FWSA Crewed Boat Trophies

If you’re a new lady to SPYC check out the Ladies Beach Club, where girls not only “just wanna have fun”, but we make lasting friendships and so much more! We finished up 2024 with Napkins & Gnomes and 2025 will be full of Florida history, Flamingos, Hemingway in Paris, and Flamenco dancing. You don’t want to miss any of it!

In January Dr. Evan Bennett, local historian, professor at Florida Atlantic University and author of, "Tampa Bay: The Story of an Estuary and its People", shared fascinating facts and history of our own Tampa Bay.

On February 25th we’ll be Flamenco dancing in the ballroom! Put on your dancing shoes and join us as we learn the history of this amazing dance and get instructions from a pro.

TThe annual Mah Jongg tournament is happening again this month, sponsored by the Ladies Beach Club! LBC ladies play Mah Jongg every Monday with a beginners table.

Not a part of the Ladies Beach Club at Pass-a-Grille yet?

Not a problem—contact Helle Getz, Membership Chair at (630) 564-9095 or email sailtym@yahoo.com "Life is BETTER at the Beach Club with girlfriends!"

he SPYC Golf Club looks forward to a new year of golfing in 2025. Our November outing took place at the beautiful Waterlefe course on November 14th. Congratulations to our men’s first-place winners at two under par: Bill Protz, David Bowers, Josh Whetzel, and Paul Murray. Our first-place women’s winners at five over par were Barb Deininger, Mary Deininger, and Bijie Ding. The closest to the pin were: Hole 4- Bekah Rush; Hole 9-George Kinemond; Hole 15- Bill Protz. Our last outing of the year was held on December 17th at Cove Cay with a small group of golfers who gathered to play during this busy time of year. Everyone was a winner! Members gathered for holiday festivities and the annual tradition of singing the 12 days of Christmas at our Holiday Party on December 5th.

Congratulations to our male golfer of the year for 2024, Paul Calhoun, and our female golfer of the year, Sue Cooper. Future outings include Bardmoor and Seminole Lake County Club. Come join our golf group this year! Our group is comprised of a diverse mix of people with all golf skill levels. We typically play a four-person scramble format once a month at a different course in the Tampa Bay area. Our meetings are on the first Tuesday of the month, at 6:00 pm in the downtown clubhouse. Check the marquis sign at the front entrance or ask at the front desk for the specific room location. If you are interested in joining the Golf Group for the 2025 year, please contact Bekah Rush at rush.rebekah@gmail.com or come meet us in person at one of our monthly meetings.

Mission Statement: The St. Petersburg Yacht Club provides preeminent yachting and social experiences for members, their families and guests, and honors the Club’s rich yachting heritage in a welcoming environment.

FOUNDED 1909 • MEMBERSHIP IS BY INVITATION ONLY

Private Yacht Club Publication produced by the St. Petersburg Yacht Club © 2025

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