I have a lot to report in this writing. The Party with a Purpose which was held on March 23, was an enormous success financially as well as an outstanding evening with many highlights. A huge thank you to the staff and chef for an outstanding dinner and the service was impeccable as well. We exceeded all expectations in every respect. For those of you who noticed our 2024 donation thermometer at the entrance to the clubhouse, we have already reached 75% for our goal for the year. Thank you to all who attended the Party, those who were unable to attend but were so generous with your contributions, those who donated and purchased our silent auction items and supported us every step of the way. Some of the highlights of the evening included auctioning the brass chandelier that hung over the burgee bar for so many years. One of our members purchased this great piece of CRYC memorabilia and I am sure will enjoy it for many years. We also displayed two painted OPTI Sails, one of which was painted by our very own participants in the sailing program. Our sailors were directed by Artist Christopher Kram and Table # 1 made a very generous donation to purchase the sail and donated it to CRYC for future display. The other Sail, which was painted by Christopher, will be displayed and auctioned at the April 11 event at the club, which I hope you enjoyed as well. As I mentioned in my previous article, one of the items on our wish list was an additional Boston Whaler Coaches Boat. I am pleased to report that one of our very generous Board members donated the boat to the Foundation. Our annual fundraising Epicurean Dinner which we announce at the Party with a Purpose is already sold out. As always, our silent auction provided lots of fun for participants and generous donations to the foundation.
It’s been a while coming, but our TEAM FOUNDATION DONORS’ PLAQUE is finally installed at the entrance to the clubhouse. We are very proud to display the names of those of you who have supported our efforts for the club and community. Since it has been up, I have had requests from members to be included. If you are interested, we would love to have you join the team.
We are hard at work preparing for the 2024 Sailing Program which we will again partner with the City of Ft. Lauderdale, and the Lauderdale Yacht Club Foundation. Our Activities Director Donna Wagoner can fill you in on details and availability. Our Board Members have not only been generous with their contributions and time but also spend a lot of time maintaining and preparing the fleet for our programs.
On behalf of the Foundation Board, we thank you for your continued support.
Bob Epstein, President
CRYC SAILING AND WATER SPORTS FOUNDATION
954-648-2002 – robertwepstein@gmail.com