Get ready for launch
April 25 and 26

Randy Holden
Commodore

Commodore's Outlook

Hello CBYC,As we look forward to the upcoming season, I’ve been reflecting on what truly makes our club unique. We aren’t just a collection of boats and slips, we are a self help “community”. This DIY spirit, the willingness to roll up our sleeves, maintain our own docks, support one another, is in fact the our very foundation that built our club and continues to drive our direction year in and year out. Quite simply, the spirit of “I Got You”.Look no further than this past winter, one of the most intense in recent memory. Our members stepped up time and again to address issues as they arose and we survived. For just shy of five decades that spirit has carried us through time and again. By relying on our own sweat equity we have built a foundation that is as sturdy as a well poured keel.

BUILT TO LAST

Our commitment to the future remains simple but firm, to preserve this affordable, member driven haven in our beautiful park setting for the next generation of sailors and power boaters, that is how we were built and will continue moving forward.Heading into this busy time in our calendar I’m positive we will conduct ourselves as we have always and step up as needed and get it done. Historically we have always found a way and I’m confident that we will continue in the same manner to assure the next 50 years we are vital and thriving, in the CBYC way.Thank you for your tireless dedication to our club and it’s mission. In a short period of time I look forward to seeing that same commitment around the yard and on our docks and each of you as well to again share our mutual passion.Your Commodore,
Randy Holden

Sue Baker
Rear Commodore

Greetings from
the rear Commodore

As some of you might have heard, this will be my last season as your Rear Commodore and as a member of CBYC. My passion has always involved water and boats, and I have enjoyed myself immensely for the last five years as a member and these two years as your Rear Commodore.Being Rear Commodore is a little like 3-dimensional chess. You are constantly weighing possible outcomes for each move. However, it is also a team sport, and I have been blessed to have a tremendous team backing me up.But the South Pacific is calling, and my restless feet need to explore the world, and a boat is just too large a commitment (to say nothing of serving on a Board). So, I have decided to sell my boat and head out into the big wide world.Some of you might be wondering why I am sending out this note in the spring rather than the fall and the reason is simple. If you want to know more about the position, serving on the board or anything else just ask. I’m around and unless I am wearing a life jacket, I am always up for a chat.Just let me know if you want to try on the jacket.Sue Baker
Rear Commodore

Steve Gallinger
Communications Director

communications report

I see resilience in how we all come together to make the magic of launch weekend happen every year! It is an amazing process to watch—especially knowing there is so much background planning, emails, phone calls, spreadsheets, and committee meetings that go into making it all run smoothly.The club has been a source of joy and camaraderie since 1978. Through those years, many things have challenged our existence. We’ve overcome them all and are heading into 50 years of serving up a high-quality, low-cost home for the boating experience. We don’t always agree on how to get there, but by working together we always seem to find a way to continue to have the special place and experience we know and love.I’m coming up on 20 years with the club, and over that time I’ve seen a lot of ups and downs. What really stands out is that overall the club functions very well! Year over year, bills get paid, things get fixed, services continue, jobs are spread around the membership, the lawns are cut, the boardwalk/docks are kept up, beautiful gardens filled with flowers and bushes are weeded, watered, deadheaded, and trimmed. Both haulout and launch run smoothly (cradle layout/pickup, cradle location planning, haulout/launch crew management, safety & security, launch/haulout timing, member check-in, etc. … a herculean feat). The bubbler crew works through the dead of winter! We run a robust entertainment schedule supporting local music, we have a great set of cruises organized for our members, and we do so much more to keep it all running year after year!Around the lake we are known as a “go-to” destination. We do it all largely with the labour and know-how of you, our members, year over year … you are what “I got you” is all about. We are all so lucky to be part of this thing.I invite you to celebrate with me all that is CBYC. Together we can be proud of the torch we’ve been handed and our response to it.Steve Gallinger,
Communications Director

Julie King
Treasurer

resilience in action

When asked to base this season’s Masthead article on resilience, I found myself thinking about its two facets: toughness and elasticity.To me, resilience is not only about the toughness needed to navigate difficulties. It is just as much about the elasticity that comes from facing challenges and responding not only to immediate challenges, but by building something stronger in the process. The strongest organizations are not the ones that resist change, but the ones that know when to hold course and when to adjust with purpose.Since stepping into the Treasurer role that has meant initiating work of modernization in practical ways: implementing a new accounting system, moving from mailed invoices to email, and replacing paper restaurant vouchers with a digital card. These are not changes for the sake of change, but practical improvements that help the club operate more efficiently, reduce administrative burden, and build a stronger foundation for the years ahead.That same spirit of building for the future was reflected in the effort to complete the club’s audit in time for the AGM. It required a major push, and I personally devoted more than 150 hours to helping make that happen. The process was demanding, but important to supporting sound financial reporting and good governance.This past year also reminded me that resilience is personal as well as organizational. Serving as Treasurer has required persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to stay focused through challenge and uncertainty. That was especially true during the election, when I was the only director to face an opponent. I am sincerely grateful to the membership for re-electing me as Treasurer, and I took that vote of confidence as support for the work the Finance Committee and I have undertaken to modernize our systems and strengthen the club’s financial controls.Another important part of resilience is making sure knowledge does not disappear as the members and volunteers who built the club and its practices step back from day-to-day guidance. CBYC has benefited enormously from the experience, judgment, and commitment of those who came before us newer members. One of the next steps in my contribution to the role of Treasurer will be to capture more of that knowledge by creating playbooks and documenting core accounting processes. The goal is not to replace experience, but to preserve it, support continuity, and create a framework that allows good practices to evolve over time without constantly reinventing the wheel.I am also very pleased that we were able to add a strong new addition to the office team. Please join me in welcoming Aishwarya, who will be working 30 hours per week for CBYC on a one-year contract. This is an important step forward that will help strengthen continuity, support the office, and move key improvement work forward.What has always stood out to me at CBYC is the willingness of members to step up, help one another, and keep the club moving forward. That spirit remains one of the club’s greatest strengths, and one of the reasons I am confident in our future.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.Julie King,
Treasurer

Katherine Roesch
Social Director

the social scene

Dear Members,The Social Committee is delighted to host another exciting year of events, and we look forward to welcoming both new and returning faces. Our mission is to foster a vibrant social atmosphere and a strong community where members can mingle, connect, and build lasting friendships. We are here to help ensure you have a great time and enjoy everything our club has to offer.

Getting Involved

We sincerely thank our Senior and Social members for their continued participation in club events and for the many compliments we receive throughout the year.We also welcome new members who would like to help with decorating or event planning. Volunteering is a fantastic way to get involved and meet fellow members.I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to the Social Committee for their dedication and hard work in making these events possible.

What It Means to Me to Be
a CBYC Member

I am proud to have contributed to the growth of our club over the past several years—celebrating milestone anniversaries and working alongside many Commodores in the community we have built together. It is inspiring to see how consistently our members share a deep passion for our mission and uphold the values of our self-help club.A perfect example of this spirit occurred last year, the day before our largest event, Sailpast. A high-wind storm passed through and the visitor tent collapsed, bending the stands. As I stood there assessing the tent, members passing by immediately stepped in to help. United we stood, collaborating and pooling their skills to resolve the situation together.To me, that moment perfectly illustrates what CBYC is all about—members coming together to support one another.Over the years, I have met lifelong friends at CBYC. I have also lost a few very dear friends. Each person I have known at CBYC has touched my heart in some way. During my time here, someone has always stepped in to help—often before I even had to ask.
That true spirit of friendship and goodwill among our members is truly priceless.

Upcoming Traditions

COMMODORE'S BALL (May 23) & SAILPAST (June 13)As we look ahead to the upcoming season, I would like to highlight two of our most important traditions at the Cathedral Bluffs Yacht Club.First, we are preparing for our annual Sailpast, celebrating the 48th anniversary of our founders breaking ground in 1978. Despite past and present challenges, CBYC continues to remain a strong and united community.History tells us that some of our original founders later moved on to form other clubs in the basin, but CBYC has always persevered. Over the last five years, the basin community has grown closer through vibrant social activities and a revived racing group.Having been a social committee member for our 35th and a Director hosting 37th and onward 40th, and 45th special anniversaries, I am proud of the foundation we have built and eagerly anticipate our 50th Sailpast.I would also like to highlight this year’s Commodore’s Ball, a tradition shared by yacht clubs everywhere that marks the official opening of the boating season.Everyone should attend a Commodore’s Ball at least once. This year’s theme is an inclusive gathering where new members and longtime friends can connect.This year we want to embrace and celebrate all of our Commodores—Past Commodores and present, in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.And of course, it wouldn’t be CBYC without a lot of dancing!I look forward to seeing many friendly faces there as we kick off another wonderful year on the water.SUMMERFESTThis summer we will build on the success of our outdoor youth activities by offering an even broader range of outdoor social events. Our goal is to enhance the yacht club’s atmosphere, create more inclusive opportunities for members of all ages, and continue improving the overall member experience.FLOTILLA SOCIAL PARTYDesigned to get you off the docks for a fun Social afternoon and Sail to the beach area to raft up.We will meet at the playground/lawn for snacks and to coordinate flotilla details before heading out for some boat hopping and lunch together. Sunny dates will be announced soon.

Recent Successful Events

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Valentine’s Dance and St. Patrick’s Day Dance.Members and guests enjoyed wonderful evenings of dining and dancing with DJ Mike at the Valentine’s Dance and The Cyril Way Band at the St. Patrick’s celebration.
Congratulations to all of our prize winners.Thanks to the Social Committee for their volunteer help and to Babu and the catering staff for our wonderful dinners.

Upcoming Events

April 14 – DART LEAGUE BANQUET. Dinner & Awards. Hosted by Pam Burnett. Pick-up darts continue Tuesdays at 7 PM during boating season.April 25 & 26 – LAUNCH WEEKEND. Regalia Open in the Sailors Lounge. Sat: 9 AM–5 PM | Sun: 9 AM–4 PM. Pick up CBYC sweatshirts, caps, and boat gear (burgees & decals).May 23 – COMMODORE'S BANQUET. A must-attend semi-formal/formal evening celebrating all Commodores—past and present—with a live band, great atmosphere, and gourmet dinner.June 13 – SAILPAST & CBYC 48th ANNIVERSARY. Enjoy a full day of family fun and tradition, featuring the Blessing of the Fleet, sail past and salute the Commodore. Meet back at the club for BBQ, live music and kid’s activities. Fireworks at 10 PM.June 27 – SUMMERFEST & PRE-CANADA DAY CELEBRATION. Join us on the lawn and playground for music, snacks, and games. Additional outdoor events to be announced.July 18 – 12th ANNUAL RIBFEST PATIO PARTY. One of our most popular events—save the date!July 25 – BASIN SOCIAL PARTY & REGATTA. Kids’ activities at the playground plus food and music at the club.August 15 – 17th ANNUAL LOBSTERFEST. This event sells out quickly, so book early to enjoy the East Coast vibe and dancing.September 26 – OCTOBERFEST. Gather friends for tables of eight and enjoy beer tasting, sausage, schnitzel, and dancing to a live rock band.October 31 – HALLOWEEN SPOOKY DANCE NIGHT. Costume party with prizes for best costume and best carved pumpkin.November – TBA. Planning for children’s holiday events and New Year’s Eve.

WEEKLY ACTIVITIES

Tuesday – DART NIGHT. (7:00 PM). League wraps up in April; pick-up darts continue throughout the boating season.Wednesday – RACE NIGHT CHEER (9:00 PM). Racers gather to share stories over wings and beer.Thursday – EUCHRE & GAME NIGHT (7:00 PM). Pick-up euchre continues through the boating season.Friday – CLUBHOUSE DINING. Special menu and a relaxed dining experience.Saturday – SOCIAL DANCES. Special menus and social events beginning at 6:00 PM.Sunday – AFTERNOON GAMES. Email if interested (to be determined).Stay updated on upcoming events or join our games mailing list by contacting: [email protected]Special thanks to all the Social Committee members.Wishing everyone a happy and safe boating season!Katherine Roesch.
Social Director

Dror Ziskind
Fleet Captain

OUR FLEET

The beautiful days of summer are just around the corner and we can’t wait. Somehow this winter seems just a tad too harsh. Maybe it’s due to the wild swings in weather, at time teasing us with summer days only to remind us with some snow that winter is still here.Our teams at fleet are working hard in preparation for the summer, trying to revamp some programs, and create new programs to better us all.This year we are planning to offer a number of courses to our club members at CBYC. Courses offered will be in First Aid, Radio VFH certification and the inner harbor license. The First Aid course will be offered through CanBoat Squadron. This is a single-day classroom course that provides participants with the Canadian Red Cross Emergency First Aid Level C certification, including CPR and AED training which is ideal for our members and Dock Attendants. As with all courses there is a minimum number of registrant required for the course to proceed.Patrick Regina (1563) is heading the education program and could be reached at [email protected]. We are working on scheduling these courses and will announce tentative dates shortly. Please stay tuned for announcements via our club weekly email and posting at our club house.Our racing committee, headed by Bryan Kelly (1551) is working hard and with a mission to invigorate CBYC sailing/racing program. Although our racing program is tied directly to the Bluffs Basing Racing program, our committee is determined to help our CBYC members in any way possible.We would like to urge anyone who is interested in racing or to participate as crew on a racing vessel to be more involved and remember that “there are no bad questions.” Bryan could be reached at [email protected]Speaking of dreaming; this year our cruising program will start mid-June. The program details are posted on our website, we will be visiting ports such Whitby Yacht Club, Frenchmen’s Bay, Ashbridges Bay Yacht Club, Mimico Cruising Club, Etobicoke Yacht Club, the Oakville Club (OYC), and more.For this year we tried to squeeze more cruises into the warmer months. We now have back to back weekend cruises. As always we ask that participants be actively involved. We always look for members to volunteer as cruise captains/hosts. A cruise captain/host is a member who organizes that particular cruise. Well organized cruises elevate participant’s experience, making it fun and memorable. Our cruise captains / hosts will receive the benefit of early registration well before any other participants and a few “club work hours” to boot. We are planning to have up to two cruise captains/hosts per club cruise. Our cruising committee led by Stewart Young (1593), he and its members are always here to help, assist and provide you with information. Stewart could be reached at [email protected]Something that is not perhaps advertised as it should is the fact that we at CBYC have a dedicated team led by Elaine Aimone (528) updating our reciprocals agreement with other clubs. If you wish to visit any club that has an agreement with CBYC you can look up the details on our website. Some of the details will include cost, number of free nights, duration of stay and the contact person for making arrangements to name a few. Elaine could be reached at [email protected]In preparation for spring our Visitor Tent team led by Mark Tingle (1696) is getting ready to update and setup our visitor tent and its surrounding. We will need volunteers to help re-letter our tent cover, setup the marine rope practice station, updates the flower planters, the lighting system and the BBQ’s. We want our visitors to feel welcomed and eager to re-visit CBYC and you can help.As your fleet captain, I keep thinking of summer. Summer for me is a busy time, being fully occupied with all the little details, making sure our programs at CBYC are on course, trying to eliminate mishaps, making sure we have a summer to remember. I always admire the teams at CBYC fleet for their hard work and dedications, making it all happen to the benefit of our club members, thank YOU!Yes, sometimes, I pause; I make my own little plans, get excited, dreaming of joining you on some of our wonderful scheduled ports, looking forward to spending time with our members and friends, sharing experiences and making new friends.Now, all that remains is to stay safe and hope for a great summer on the water.Dror Ziskind,
Fleet Captain

Floyd Dempster
Construction Director

maintenance
and construction

As I was writing this it brought to mind my experiences over the years at clubs.• I started sailing in 1994.
• We have docked our boat at a marina and three yacht clubs.From the first day, we arrived at CBYC we were welcomed with open arms.Over the years at CBYC we have found the members so friendly and we’ve always felt that if you make the effort to say hello, you were accepted immediately.I would have to say that of all the clubs I’ve been at CBYC is without a doubt, the most welcoming.As the winter winds down we will be tuning up the bubbling system for next season, then tearing it down to be put away for next winter.The next project is to get our docks prepared for the summer season, which encompasses reattaching floats, fixing electrical, plumbing, etc.For our new members maintenance and construction is responsible for the pump out, gardening, construction, the mast crane, dock maintenance, electrical, plumbing and of course the bubbling system.There are always opportunities for you to use your skills and knowledge to keep “your” club the best on the lake. We have some exciting projects coming up that we will need your skills to help us complete.In closing let’s get our club into tiptop shape ready for our sailing and cruising events. I look forward to working with you all and meeting you on the water,Have a Great Boating and Sailing Season!Floyd Dempster,
Construction Director

wow

women on water

Women on the Water was created to build confidence, seamanship, and camaraderie among women at our club — and, in doing so, to strengthen our entire club community.• This past season, WOW members gathered to build practical skills and knowledge:• Knot-tying to learn essential line handling
• Boat maintenance to better care for our boats
• Safety seminar on what to do if you suddenly find yourself alone on your boat
• Connecting with fellow women boaters and sharing experiencesThese sessions are not about stepping away from club life — they are about stepping more fully into it. Sometimes it’s easier to learn the ropes in a small crew of peers before joining the rest of the crew on deck. As confidence grows, so does competence. Women become more capable crew, more prepared in emergencies, and more willing to take the helm — all of which strengthens participation and seamanship across the club.At its core, our club stands for one simple idea: “I’ve got you.” On the dock, on the water, and in unexpected moments, we look out for one another. WOW reflects that spirit — creating space where women can build skills, ask questions, and support each other.Why WOW? Because when more members feel confident stepping aboard and taking the helm, the entire club benefits.

we're in good company

Women’s sailing programs are becoming a familiar part of yacht clubs around the world.At Chicago Yacht Club, WOW runs popular learn-to-sail evenings and educational events. On Long Island Sound, a regional WOW network connects sailors from more than adozen clubs for racing, seminars, and shared learning. Houston Yacht Club hosts a residential women’s sailing camp and organizes racing, educational and social events throughout the year.Closer to home, WOW programs are thriving at the National Yacht Club with WOW race nights and speaker series, and at Ashbridge’s Bay Yacht Club, which hosts regular sailing and social events. Similar initiatives can be found internationally, from the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s International Women’s Day sails to the Pentagon Sailing Club’s social sails and skill-building sessions in a community of women supporting women in sailing.

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