Platinum Point Yacht Club (PPYC) honored a significant milestone last month. The club was formed on October 27, 1984. John Landry,
owner of the International Sailing School at BSM, became the first Commodore. PPYC quickly became a beacon of maritime tradition and camaraderie, and the nautical hub of Burnt Store Marina.
Of course, PPYC, being inclined to celebrations, and honoring our nautical traditions, wanted to celebrate this ruby 40-year anniversary. On October 27, club members gathered at the clubhouse for a gala celebration. Joan Flinspach, the club historian, shared photos documenting the club’s evolution over the years. Trivia questions prompted memories of times gone by. Members toasted to the heritage of a club that has thrived over these 40 years.
At 6:30, members assembled outside for a traditional Sundowner Ceremony. Often simply called the “sunset ceremony,” this ceremony combines several military customs, and reflects respect for the American flag. The ceremony began with a benediction delivered by Anna Marie Kotsen. A brief history of the sundowner ceremony was shared, and key moments of PPYC’s history were highlighted.
The ceremony also honored club veterans, past commodores, and the PPYC board. A Proclamation from the Lee County Board of County Commissioners declared that Platinum Point Yacht Club “stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure, fellowship, and maritime heritage that define the yachting community within our county.” As the name implies, the ceremony coincided with sunset. The club flag was lowered, and presented to club Commodore, Greg Broxterman.
“…Platinum Point ‘stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of adventure, fellowship, and maritime heritage that define the yachting community within our county.’
Following the ceremony, members returned to the club to continue the celebration with an anniversary cake. PPYC is proud of its heritage, as it continues to maintain such important nautical traditions as the Golden Conch Regatta, Fleet Week, Eight Bells custom, and the Commodore’s Ball.
As we look forward to November, two of PPYC’s signature events stand out. On November 9, the club will hold its Annual Meeting where members will hear plans for the coming year from the Board of Directors. New board members will be installed, and the membership will vote on the proposed budget. However, as you know, PPYC is really all about the party, so that night members will reconvene for the Annual Welcome Back Dinner with the theme Home in Paradise.
The other signature event in November allows PPYC to welcome back the entire Burnt Store Community. The Shrimp Boil – Let the Good Times Roll will be held on November 20. Mark your calendar and invite your friends.
In another endeavor open to the entire community, PPYC will continue to support families at East Elementary School with our Adopt a Child Program. Each child in the family will receive several gifts including both clothing and toys. If you would like to join with us in this endeavor, stop by the PPYC clubhouse after November 10, choose a child’s tag off the Christmas tree and record your name in the accompanying register. Return your wrapped gift to the club by December 1. You can also donate by giving a check to buy extra gifts. As stated in the Lee County Proclamation, Platinum Point Yacht Club has demonstrated “exceptional dedication to enriching the lives of countless individuals and enhancing the community at large.” Please help us continue to make a difference in the lives of neighboring families.
