January 2011 Papoose Article

We sailed into port on Dec. 5, 2010 for our Annual Awards Brunch, held at the Lafayette House. Thanks go to Cathy Chute and Bambi Newton for organizing a great, final event for the year.

In addition to the awarding of trophies for racing results, there were trophies for those members who were acknowledged for their special contributions to the LMYC duing the past year. John Incantalupo was awarded the John Myers Service Award, Most Improved Skipper went to Chuck Chute, Don Okner received the Ed Syracuse Sportsmanship Award and our 2010 Crew of the Year are Margie and Claire Incantalupo.

Outgoing Commodore Perry Anderson paid special tribute to Constance Gill for organizing the Mutiny Regatta and Wednesday night sailing, John Miller for his work in maintaining the club boats used in our sailing schools and to John Marx for his efforts with our docks. Perry also thanked his Board members and Committee chairpersons with unexpected and much appreciated gifts. Ian Oldridge was also thanked for his many efforts and for diligently photographing our sailing and events. Incoming Commodore Rich Miner presented Perry with a plaque for his excellent leadership over the past two years.

The afternoon was not entirely serious, John Miller lived up to his reputation with his gag gifts for those of us who earned those “honors.” He started with administering the Turtle Pledge to Chuck Chute and his crew as well as Hank Jelinek for going bottoms-up on the course. Perry Anderson's newest crew member, Rich Hodges received a cap with ear plugs to help him block out extraneous chatter and Chuck Chute and Hank Jelinek received survival kits which included hats, socks and brandy to warm the inner-self.

Sadly, John Miller's father passed away in late November. The LMYC extends deepest sympathy to the Miller family. We also sincerely thank John for coming through with his gag gifts despite his personal loss.

We are already looking forward to our 2011 events. Rich Miner will be holding our first Board meeting shortly so that we are ready to go when Spring arrives. And remember, if you want to join the LMYC, if you want to learn to sail or if you want more information, just call us at (973)512-8867, email 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