Local club recognized for charitable efforts
By Joan Palango
LW contributor
The Southern California Yachting Association (SCYA) bestowed upon the Seal Beach Yacht Club (SlBYC) its 2020 Club the Year and Pandemic Powerhouse awards.
SCYA is a regional recreational- boating organization comprising more than 90 clubs from Santa Barbara to San Diego and inland to Nevada and Arizona. The purpose of the Club of the Year (COY) program is to promote the Corinthian Spirit in yachting, foster the exchange of information among yacht clubs, encourage civic involvement and reward participation in SCYA activities. There are 17 categories in the COY program.
Last year was the 60th year of the SlBYC—its Diamond Jubilee— and it set winning the COY program as a goal. Under the direction of Commodore Laura Ellsworth, the club adopted a theme of “Every Member Matters,” setting out to give members a variety of activities and opportunities to engage with one another while also focusing on expanding existing programs. Another major part of the COY is charitable and community service, which are hallmarks of the SlBYC.
Though the pandemic changed what the club could do, the SlBYC continued to focus on the COY, as many of its activities were outside and on the water, where it’s easier to safely distance and remain COVID-safe.
The Pandemic Powerhouse Award was created by SCYA in June 2020 to recognize the extreme challenges brought about by COVID-19. At the time, the association’s members thought the pandemic would be over by September. But the SIBYC pivoted, adjusting its sails, and powered through as best as it could to follow all health guidelines and keep its membership engaged.
When the SIBYC couldn’t gather in person, members met via Zoom or YouTube and created fun trivia and scavenger hunts that could be done on the apps. Duffy and dinghy cruises were added, as well as what became known as YoYo (You’re On Your Own) cruises to Catalina and to the San Diego area. New events were added such as fishing and predicted log racing.
When there were shortages in grocery stores, it worked with its vendors to secure provisions for SIBYCmembers.Whenmembers were not allowed to dine in the club, it started a takeout program. When allowed by local guidelines, the SIBYC hosted dinners on the club patio and offered additional dining opportunities in the new courtyard area.
SIBYC’s sailing-race program was strong, safely completing 23 of the 34 planned races. Collections were taken every month for local charities including California State University, Long Beach’s Pantry Program; St. Luke’s Shower Power Program; WomenShelter Long Beach, and the American Red Cross blood-drive program.
Ellsworth did not lead with what could not be done because of the virus; instead, she led with what could be done.
The SIBYC is located at 255 N. Marina Drive, next to West Marine, about a five-minute drive from Leisure World. There are about 300 members in the club, representing a variety of ages and interests; more than 40 members live in Leisure World.
Experienced mariners or those new to boating or who just want a social connection are invited to check out the club. If you are interested in learning more or touring the SIBYC, contact membership chairperson Rowanda Tucker at (562) 221-2627.
