John Richter

Commodore 2000

We joined the Yacht Club in 1994. Joining began for us a very fulfilling time. We met new friends, had a social life, and enjoyed our lake to the fullest with friends. I have served as Trustee for two years; Fleet Captain Power, Rear Commodore, House Committee Chairman; and chaired our annual golf tournament for 3 years. The Chamber of Commerce asked our Yacht Club to host the Annual Boat Parade of Lights, which we accepted to do and I have been chairman of that for four years. So..... in the year 2000, it was time to serve as Commodore.

The 2000 Board of Directors and myself made a few changes to the already very satisfying dinners on Friday nights. We began sit down dinners with tablecloths and waitresses. I initiated the Shipmate of the Month Award and set the General Membership meetings to Wednesday night, once a month. The clubhouse and kitchen were painted inside and a nice serviceable cabinet was installed in dining room thanks to much help from members.

Monday Night Football nights led to Bingo and also inexpensive dinners. Some of the other events we had during my year as Commodore was Annual Chili Cook-Off, Super Bowl Party; Appreciation Brunch; Two Monte Carlo Nights; 1st Annual Senior Olympics; Opening Day; Annual Fish Tournament; Poker Run; Beach Picnic; reactivated the Commodore’s Sailing Cup; and too many other events too numerous to mention.

The highlight of my reign as Commodore happened to be the 30th anniversary of our Club. So, the 30th Anniversary Dinner Dance was planned and it was beautiful. We had many wonderful guests. It was a great time.

The annual IJSBA was very successful thanks to the hard work of our members.

I did institute a semi annual meeting of all the Staff Commodores together with the new Commodore. This should be very helpful for input and guidelines.

Being Commodore of this fine club is definitely an honor and a year I shall never forget. I thoroughly enjoyed everything and everyone. I highly recommend it.