The Commodore's Corner

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May 7, 2013: I know we had some parking issues this weekend, but despite rumors there was only a legitimate issue on Friday, and even then the vast majority of cars belonged to our members. Yes, I know we have a sign at the entrance, but I did not think it appropriate to tow visiting skippers’ cars on Friday. Bill was instructed and fully empowered to tow the rest of the weekend.

I was personally in the lot at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and there was only one car that did not have a 2013 EYC sticker. I did not hear of any towing incidents on Sunday. If members who arrive early for a race or who serve on Race Committee take all the parking spots, that’s another issue.

Normally our skippers do a good job of alerting out-of-town fleet members about parking. That did not happen this time for whatever reason. We’ll do a better job next time. One thoughtful member with whom I spoke on Sunday made the constructive suggestion of stationing a volunteer parking monitor on the mornings of busy regatta days.

A more important issue is the traffic flow and parking in the dry slip areas. This affects members on a weekly basis. We are working on additional signage and markings to help. In the meantime, please try and use the SSA access point as an entrance and the Walker access point as the exit. I know this doesn’t seem logical, but it is important. Directing the traffic flow this way helps to prevent cars from meeting the tractor head on. And yes, it does happen, I can personally attest to it.

The other issue that I would like people to pay attention to is not parking in the dry slip area. There is no parking beyond the main front lot. You may see an owner dropping off gear, but when boats are moving around there just isn’t any room for cars. We have been putting out cones, but some folks keep parking in this area.

You can most certainly assume from this point forward that there will be no more of Bill’s friendly little green tickets.

May 1, 2013: May is here, the flowers are finally out and things at EYC are about to move into high gear. With each new month and new season we learn more about how the new facility and site work, so keep that in mind as we head into this busy season.

Thank you to all those who attended the Town Hall meeting. Despite a couple of breaches of our normally friendly decorum it was a good meeting. Our Finance Committee did a great job of presenting our financial picture and the By-laws group made good progress getting member feedback on issues that need cleaning up in the By-laws. All the input, even the stuff that came over the bow, was worthwhile. Make sure to put May’s round two meeting on your calendar.

February 24, 2013: Its 0600 and I'm sitting on the plane to St. Maarten. My head is trying to decide whether to go into full blown hangover mode, but all I can think about is what a great party the Commodore's Ball was. Can you say "Martini Luge"?

We tried something new and boy, did we hit it out of the park. Bill, Henry and the entire staff deserve accolades for showing us what is now possible at EYC. You'll have to ask your fellow members for the details, but suffice it to say by evening’s end fans and skeptics were unanimous in proclaiming it the best Ball ever.

March 26, 2013: Winter is making a valiant effort to hang on, but Spring weather will be with us soon enough. With the change of seasons we will finally start putting the club into full operation.

Dry slip boats are back and the yard will be abuzz with Tuesday night, Wednesday night and Thursday night sailing in addition to weekends. The deck will be full, a lot. The yard will be host to many parties. It goes without saying that the main goal is to have fun, but let’s make sure to be patient and keep a smile on when things get a little stressed.

Speaking of Thursday night sailing, take pride in the fact that EYC will be lending a Race Committee hand to J/World by running a second race circle. This was necessitated by the growing J/70 fleet and will make this Annapolis racing staple the largest weeknight one-design racing program anywhere. EYC will also be extending a social hand by hosting the post-race get together.

Commodore’s Ball Update, February 18, 2013: Due to the fact that there are still some tickets available I can only assume that there are still some questions about the new format. One recurring subject is seating. The intent of the whole-house party is to encourage roaming about and socializing with many vs. the few at your table as occurs in the traditional format.

With that said, we understand the desire to get off those heels and sit for a bit. We have a plan to accomplish this. Don't expect seating for 200, but do expect to have a great time.