Wow! It has been a long year since we followed a regular calendar of events for the Down East Yacht Club! It has been a difficult time for everyone! Certainly, COVID-19 has prevented us from enjoying the beautiful people in our DEYC, the regular open house gatherings in Maine with the delicious and bountiful food and beverages, the wonderful stories, and our annual Launch and Haul Out Parties. For many of us at least, we have cherished a beautiful view of the Maine sunrises and sunsets on the water. And for some of us luckier ones… a view from the hot tub while enjoying a cocktail!

Until now! Florida DEYCers have had enough lonely weekends. Even though they were not normal gatherings of the DEYC, these Florida gatherings were a step towards normalization. Of course, every CDC recommended health and safety protocols were observed.

Feb. 4, new members Phil and Donna Doyen hosted a “West Coast” outdoor picnic with masks and social distancing at their home in Port Charlotte, Florida. 20 people including three couples from the East Coast attended, making this a successful occasion.

On Tuesday, March 9, a group of 18 “West-Coast” DEYC members gathered at P/C Sandy and Karen Young’s home in Venice to enjoy a cocktail party before the “Annual Rendezvous” on March 10, Wednesday at Maxine Barritt Park in Sarasota, Florida. Francis Bissson reserved the park and the P/C Woody and wife Pat Thompson served as hosts for the outdoor picnic. 31 DEYCers attended the picnic. P/C Woody reported that “a good time was had by all members in attendance.”

Then, Thursday, March 18 saw “Florida East Coast” members of the DEYC gather at Sandsprit Park in Stuart, Florida for a picnic by the water! Many years ago, this occasion was referred to as “The Maine Day” and was a regular on the calendar. This year, P/C Susan and husband R/C Brent Pope organized the event. Long time DEYC members, P/C Joe and wife, Brenda Blake who winter in Stuart, Florida, arranged the location. Eight DEYC couples prepared and brought their individually bagged lunch! Of course, they shared Covid stories, fond memories, tales of woe and they laughed together marking the beginning of more such occasions to follow. Several Past Commodores and current Commodore Ron Richardson and wife, Lori and were among the attendees.

Here in wintery Maine, some members have met in groups of two couples for “socially distanced” cocktails or a meal in a local eatery. We are fortunate to have welcomed a few new members and several inquiries about joining our “ Fun DEYC.” With the Covid vaccines now available to many of us, maybe we are on the road to normalcy. It will certainly be a welcome outcome. Stay healthy and stay safe while we await the arrival of more “DEYC Events.”

Until then, may gentle winds be at your back! We miss you all.