Sunday, May 15, 2016 was the opening ceremony, the Commodores Luncheon, for the Down East Yacht Club to kick off its 50th anniversary year. A large number of members were on hand for the celebration at the Tugboat Inn, which was the site of the first gathering so many years ago. Approximately 120 members enjoyed a delicious buffet lunch, while reestablishing with old friends from a long winter's separation.

Commodore George Hamilton introduced his bridge for 2016. Tim Parker, V/C; Susan Pope, R/C; and F/C Steve Arkley. He then brought the members up to date on all the great plans and events that are scheduled for the anniversary year. Our next gathering will be the Launching Party at odgdonH Hodgdon Yacht Services in Southport on June 11. New members were welcomed in the DEYC and received their burgee to display proudly on their vessel.

As we looked back over the past 50 years we were entertained by Kenney Baker, one of the original charter members and the first rear commodore of the DEYC. His stories of how the club got started and has evolved to today were a delightful moment in the day's events.

With great enthusiasm we look forward to the summer of 2016 in celebration of the “Fun Club” and all it has to offer. We welcome all our members to attend as many functions as possible and make new friends along the way. Happy 50th Anniversary to the Down East Yacht Club 2016, and here’s to a great year!