January 2010 Papoose Article

Happy New Year (and New Decade) to all. As we look forward to even bigger and better things for 2010, we take one look back at 2009 and those special awards and gag prizes that some of us received at the LMYC’s Annual Awards Brunch that was held at the Lafayette House Restaurant on Sunday, Nov. 15.

The special awards were as follows: Crew of the Year—Dave Newton; Most Improved Skipper--John Incantalupo; Edwin Syracuse Sportsmanship Award--Chuck Chute; John Myers Service Award--Don & Madeleine Okner

Also, Constance Gill was commended for her outstanding efforts and creativity in establishing and running the Wednesday evening racing program, John and Margie Incantalupo for their dedicated efforts in running the Junior Sailing Program, and Cathy Chute, Bambi Newton and Jan Oldridge for their terrific work on the Social Committee.

John Miller did a great job with the gag prizes. Turtles were presented to all who capsized, a Buoy Arm Band and protest flag went to John Incantalupo for wrong direction around a mark, Croc no skid soles to Ian Oldridge to provide him with more stable footing aboard the committee boat, a “Foredeck/Bowman Safety Kit (helmet, waterproof Band-Aids and a hot-patch) to Dave Newton to protect him from Chuck's erratic boat handling and a “Sailing Moms Cheering Kit (book of sailing cheers and rants, sailing mom shirt, sailing mom's protest flags) to Jan Oldridge for her exuberant support.

Last, but not least, we extend our gratitude to Commodore Perry Anderson and his wife (and first mate) Margaret for their years of steadfast leadership and loyalty to our club. They are a great couple—whether sailing, socializing or dealing with the difficulties that we sometimes face as an organization. Without people like the Andersons our club could not be all that it is. We salute Perry and Margaret and thank them for all that they do.

That about does it for 2009. But, while our boats are all secure for the winter, we are already planning for 2010. Visit our website, www.lakemohawksailing.org for more information about the LMYC. For membership information, you can e-mail us at sail@lakemohawksailing.org or write to PO Box 29, Sparta, NJ 07871.

Until next month, smooth sailing and God bless America!

Don Okner

THE ANDERSONS