The First Hundred Years: Clearwater Yacht Club, 1911-2011

Joyous libations at CYC. Collage from CYC Archives.

94 The First Hundred Years: Clearwater Yacht Club, 1911-2011 Club members also have an affinity for forming interest groups. At present there is a very active book club, golfing groups, bridge groups, a business networking group, and a water aerobics group. CYC members also love competition (on and off the water). The CYC Chili Cook-off has become an annual cutthroat event that packs the house with chefs and tasters. There are rumors that votes are ringing is alive and well at CYC. According to General Manager Tom Brusini, on the night of his installation as commodore, Walt Powell announced he was dying to ring the bell in celebration. Tom said, “Well, OK Commodore, but you’ll have to pay the price by buying a round for the house if you do.” The house being packed to the rafters for the Change of Watch Dinner and Dance, the potential penalty was stiff. After a moment’s pause, the temptation of the bell (and his generous spirit) won out over Walt’s better financial judgment. The bell rang joyously and the drinks poured forth. Since Walt’s time, two new bells have been added at the club: one in the Grill Room and one at the Tiki Bar. So, the tradition of bells and libations remains alive and well at the Clearwater Yacht Club. Entertainment of all kinds has also been a hallmark of CYC from its beginning. Members of Clearwater Yacht Club love costumes and will jump at any opportunity to wear them. Over the years, members of the Entertainment Committee have stretched their collective imaginations to the limit in planning and executing an incredible array of themed parties from the whimsical to the downright scary.

Commodores in kilts. Andy Spetz (left) and Gene Fleming at the Burns Night Dinner in 2006. Photo by Sandee Pfister.