J22
December 29, 2007
Dear Members: With so many changes in 2007 I thought it would be a good idea to bring everyone up to date on what is happening at the Corinthian Yacht Club. Most important is the fabulous renovation of our clubhouse. It is now 98% complete and the upgrade and stabilization of our waterfront is about to begin. The feedback that we have had from members and visitors alike has been extremely positive and we are looking forward to a much higher utilization of the club by members and outside parties. It is a facility that has maintained its charm, very effectively displays the art and artifacts of the Historic Foundation, and has expanded its useful space by the addition of the spectacular bar area and the renovation of the porch. We have a club that we can all be proud of. So what is in store for 2008? First we have a new manager, Ed Scott, who comes to us from New Jersey National in Basking Ridge NJ. Ed has extensive experience in the golf club arena and understands the need for us to have high standards in food service and to successfully manage large parties and banquets. He is ready to help with whatever event you would like to host. As most of you know we have been using an outside caterer, Pace One, for many of the larger parties and, after a few hiccups, that operation is now working effectively. We have also established a realistic facility fee schedule that is comparable to other clubs in the area and reflects the value and the cost to operate our historic and updated club. The club has spent a considerable sum on new trap equipment and with the help of volunteers from our group of shooters we have upgraded our program significantly. We are looking for many more clay pigeons to fall in 2008. The hosting of the Hospitality Bowl in November for area shooters provided excellent publicity for our expanding program As part of our effort to encourage more use of the club by members we will be having Pub night every Friday throughout the winter. Enjoy looking at the impressive trophies while having a sip of your favorite beverage at our now substantial bar. We should also have sailing videos, such as the 2005 Bermuda Race, up and running on our flat panel screen. Pretend you are in the Caribbean and have a rum punch! The main projects for 2008 will continue to involve the upgrade of our facility. We still need to finish off the basement, perform some building code required site work at the clubhouse entrance, and get the waterfront restoration going. For us to be able to make all this happen the Historic Foundation must be in a position to help pay for the leasehold improvements that they have agreed to. After a strong start contributions to the Foundation have slowed and they will need more funds to live up to their commitment. Approximately $800,000 of the $1.5 million goal has been raised. Please keep the Foundation in mind in 2008. Another initiative for 2008 is the updating of our gallery of members’ yachts that is displayed at the club. It has been more than a few years since we have made an effort to do that. Hear more details at the annual meeting and start looking for a suitable picture of your boat! In addition the Learn To Sail Program that we started in 2007 will be expanded this year as we have generated a lot of interest, especially from new members. And before I close I don’t want to overlook our sailing fleets. The One Designs had a great year of sailing every Wednesday night, and our J22s continue to grow. We had one of the best turn outs in years for the Fall Cruise in the Chesapeake, and don’t forget that the Spring Cruise will be the weekend before Memorial Day in 2008. Lastly, the Board of Trustees would like to wish everyone a healthful and happy 2008 and thank all the volunteers that helped move our club forward in 2007. The next major event will be the annual meeting and awards dinner on Friday January 18. We will be introducing the members elected in 2007 so come meet them and hear about our current status and the outlook for this coming year. The spinnaker is packed and ready for the next leg of our voyage! Very truly yours, Jack Gregg |
