CRUISING FLEET

Our January cruise-in was fun-filled and productive. Port Directors, Tom and Faye Turke, were on hand to greet cruisers as they arrived Thursday along with a schedule of weekend activities. On Friday we met at the Gosling’s rum tent before enjoying the St. Pete Boat Show followed by an Italian-themed dinner at the Club. Saturday started off with vessel safety checks by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. Cruisers were then entertained as Rob & Michele Matthes christened their beautiful new boat 'TALOS'. Joe Petrella narrated the ceremony while Rob & Michele, in full pirate attire, poured copious amounts of champagne into the water to bid favor from various gods of wind and sea. Fortunately, there was plenty of champagne to share with us mortal attendees as well!

The weekend was capped off with the Blessing of the Fleet on Sunday morning. Boats passed astern of Commodore Smith’s 'Legacy' to receive their blessing from Rev. Brandon Peete, as Flag Officers and others looked on. Thanks to Ray and Charlotte Noyes aboard 'Bitter Sweet' for assistance in directing the 30 boats blessed. With the latest boat show gear, safety checks, christenings, and blessings, we are truly prepared for 2023 cruising!

The Day Trippers gathered at the new Doc Ford’s Jungle Terrace in late January for a fun afternoon. Though many planned to travel by boat, cold weather and low winter tides had everyone opting for iron dinghies. Whatever the mode of transportation, we always enjoy amazing water views, good food and a beverage or two with great friends!

Our February 2nd dinner featured representatives from the U.S. Coast Guard, Sector St. Petersburg, Search and Rescue Unit. A very interesting presentation on Command Center operations was followed by an interactive Q&A session with the three-member team. Our March 2nd luncheon will feature local authors discussing the history of some of our cruising grounds around Terra Ceia Island. March also includes a cruising swap with Naples YC, a Tampa Bay Lightning game excursion, and the Tall Ships event. Boaters wishing to volunteer as escort vessels during the Tall Ships Parade, please contact me at fleet.captain@spyc.org

by Angela Kowalik, President

It’s time to spice up your life! What better way than with tasty flavor infused AUTHENTIC olive oils and vinegars? Join us for our March 20th program of Culinary Delights. We will explore the world of gourmet and authentic olive oils and exotic vinegars with Vine & Grind of Treasure Island. Vine & Grind is a gourmet specialty shop & ultra premium certified store offering only real olive oils (lab tested), aged balsamic vinegar, specialty oils, infused oils & vinegars, sea salts, organic products, and the best coffee in town! We’ll learn about the health benefits of olive oils, pairing of flavors and more to enhance our culinary arts.

**Our March Program attendance is for LBC Members Only**- March is also our Annual Meeting where we will elect officers for the 2023-2024 program year. Make your reservation now online (www.spyc.org) or call (727) 360-1646. We start at 11:00 am but arrive early as doors open at 10:30 for socialization and just plain fun! A special luncheon follows the LBC meeting and program

As announced at our February meeting, we are working toward establishing additional "Special Interest Groups" for our LBC members. In February, we debuted the Lunch Bunch! We hope to start playing Bridge in March, along with some other activities and events coming your way! Got an interest or idea? Want to coordinate? Let’s hear from you.

Also in February, we held our 11th Annual Mah Jongg Tournament having started it 10 years ago! We had seven full tables and lots of lucky winners! We’re prepping for next year

Interested in joining or renewing? Dues are just $32.00 and worth every penny!! Contact our Membership Chair Helle Getz (sailtym@yahoo.com) or refer to our membership form found online at www.spyc.org (log-in then go to Clubs Within the Club, then LBC - form is on page 2). Hope to see you at the beach!!