The January 2025 edition of the Albany Yacht Club Newsletter is now available online! Be sure to check it out for the latest updates, upcoming events, and important club news. You can access the full newsletter on our website or through the member portal. Stay informed and engaged with all that’s happening at the club this month!

On the evening of December 31, Albany Yacht Club came alive with the joyful spirit of celebration as members and friends gathered at the bar from 6 to 9 pm for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve kickoff. The event, a staple for many in the local boating community, offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.

As the sun set over the waters of the Hudson River, the cozy, festive setting inside the club provided the perfect backdrop for camaraderie and reflection on the past year. With drinks in hand and laughter filling the air, members shared stories, toasted to memories made, and eagerly anticipated the year ahead. The bar, always a social hub at the Yacht Club, was buzzing with energy as guests reconnected with old friends and made new ones in a relaxed yet festive setting.

The evening featured a selection of delicious appetizers and drinks, carefully curated to enhance the celebration. Whether it was the classic champagne toast or a signature cocktail, the bar offered something for every taste. Members shared not just the joy of ringing in the New Year, but also the unique bond that comes from being part of the Albany Yacht Club community.

As the clock ticked closer to midnight, the energy in the room grew even more electric. It was a moment of anticipation for all to reflect on the successes and challenges of the year gone by, and to look forward to the adventures that awaited in the year ahead.

For the members and friends of Albany Yacht Club, this New Year’s Eve celebration was not just about marking a moment on the calendar—it was a cherished tradition of friendship, community, and shared experiences. And as the evening came to a close, the promise of new memories and adventures in 2025 lingered in the air, leaving everyone eagerly awaiting next year’s celebration.

As we set sail into the new year, we want to extend our warmest wishes to each and every one of you. May 2025 bring you smooth waters, fair winds, and countless opportunities to make memories on and off the water.

To our valued members, thank you for your continued commitment to the spirit and success of the Albany Yacht Club. To our transient guests, we are thrilled to have you as part of our extended sailing family and hope you enjoy your time with us. And to our dedicated supporters—your contributions help keep our community strong and vibrant.

Here’s to new adventures, camaraderie, and the shared love of the sea in the year ahead. May the horizon always be bright, and may we all find joy and fulfillment in the journey!

Cheers to a fantastic 2025, both on the water and beyond.

With warm regards,

**The Albany Yacht Club**

Albany Yacht Club opens its striper season dockage reservation list on January 1st, and it's important to reserve your slip early, as they fill up quickly. During the spring months of April and May, anglers have the opportunity to fish for Striped Bass in the Hudson River while enjoying dockage at the club for a fixed fee. Each spring, large striped bass migrate from the ocean, traveling approximately 168 miles up the Hudson River to spawn, often stopping at the federal dam in Troy, NY. The fishing season for these impressive fish begins on April 1 and typically peaks at the end of April, continuing through Memorial Day. This seasonal event attracts many fishing enthusiasts eager to catch these magnificent fish.

Ethel Whiteman, a treasured member of the Albany Yacht Club, passed away on Tuesday, December 17th. Ethel, along with her husband Ron, a former Commodore, significantly contributed to the club's community for many years. She played a vital role in writing and distributing the club's newsletter and was instrumental in planning and organizing the Club's opening day ceremonies. In recognition of her dedicated service, Ethel was honored with the title of Lifetime Honorary Member. Friends and family can pay their respects during calling hours on Friday, December 20, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Daniel Keenan Funeral Home, located at 490 Delaware Ave., Albany. Her funeral services will take place at Unity Lutheran Church, at 1500 Western Ave., Albany on Saturday, December 21 at 10:00 a.m.

The Yacht Club is excited to invite all members to a delightful holiday celebration on Saturday, December 14, from 5 PM to 8 PM. This special event promises to be a wonderful opportunity for friends and fellow club members to come together and share in the joy of the season. Attendees will enjoy a catered buffet dinner, featuring a variety of delicious dishes that are sure to please every palate. This gathering is not just about food; it's a time to reconnect, share stories, and create lasting memories with friends in the beautiful setting of the Yacht Club. Don't miss out on this festive occasion that celebrates friendship and community during the holiday season!

At the recent meeting of the Albany Yacht Club, members nominated candidates for leadership positions, including Commodore Michael Lochner, Vice Commodore Bert Dodge, Rear Commodore Antoinette Cristo, Treasurer Anthony Chromczak, and Secretary Karen Basher. Additionally, the Board of Governors was nominated to include Andre Melendez, Gary Sacks, and Stephen Doud. Officers are elected every year for one-year terms, while Board Members serve two-year terms, with a total of five Board Members. This year, the club will elect three Board Members, as elections occur in alternate years for either two or three positions. The final voting will take place during the club's meeting in December, allowing members to confirm their leadership for the coming year.

The next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 12th at 6:00 pm, and it is a significant event for the membership as it is the time when nominations for Officers and Board Members take place in preparation for the December election. During this meeting, members will nominate candidates for the annual election of Officers, including the Commodore, Vice Commodore, Rear Commodore, Secretary, and Treasurer. Additionally, there are three Board positions available for election, with Board Members serving two-year terms. It is important to note that only Regular Members are eligible to hold office, and nominees must either be present at the meeting or provide a written statement indicating their willingness to serve if they cannot attend. Your participation is encouraged as it plays a vital role in the future leadership of the organization. Hope to see you there!

The Albany Yacht Club is excited to announce that the November 2024 Newsletter is now accessible online for all members and interested readers. This month's edition includes important updates about upcoming events and recent club activities. Additionally, it features tips on boating safety and an article about winterizing your vessel. Members are encouraged to read the newsletter to stay informed and engaged with the club community. You can view the newsletter by visiting this link here.

The recent presentation by the NYS Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding the future of I-787 has sparked an important conversation about transportation in our community. The proposals range from simple repairs to the existing ramps and roadway to more complex ideas such as relocating the Dunn Memorial Bridge, creating boulevards, or even building a tunnel. Each option presents unique benefits and challenges that could significantly impact traffic flow, safety, and the environment. It is crucial for community members to actively engage in this discussion by providing feedback on these proposals. By voicing our opinions, we can help shape a transportation system that meets our needs and enhances our quality of life. For more information, visit the Reimagining I-787 website and consider sharing your thoughts with the DOT.