When we say, “Come get to know us,” we really mean it! PPYC is far more than boating and a place for social gatherings. While our members share a love of the water and a lively party or two, we stand out as a place where learning, sharing, and trying something new is encouraged. It’s never been an “Ordinary Club.” We are committed to education, exploring, lifelong learning and friendships.
Educational opportunities have become highly-sought-after experiences at our Club. Members regularly gather to hear speaker presentations, followed by discussions that expand our horizons, and support our needs to understand and learn about our everyday world.
Examples of recent programs include:
AI/Artificial Intelligence: PPYC members had an opportunity to get hands on experience while using the apps on their phones. Uses, apps and cautions were explained.
A Sailboat Racing presentation reviewed the fundamental principles of sailing, the racing environment, and pointed out the most interesting parts of the race as an observer. This was followed a week later with members invited to see a race from a boat on the water with commentary from Hans Boerma.
Dockside Boat Safety and a Q & A presentation on safe boating/use of technology on the boat: Two offerings in the Spring and Fall were given on these two topics. The Education committee takes boat safety seriously, and offers a program each season. In both programs, attendees were engaged and enthusiastic! The FALL program was Open to the Public, and very well attended.
The Origin of Life and Humanity: Creation vs. Spontaneous Generation: Joe Alford, PPYC member and an Industrial Bioengineer, spent much of his career dealing with complexities of living micro-organisms. Joe spent much of his time researching this topic in literature. This resulted in a YouTube video and the publication of his book, The Origin of Life and Humanity: Creation vs. Spontaneous Generation. The book focuses on the origin of life and humanity from several different perspectives. The two main theories, 1) creation, and 2) spontaneous generation, were discussed in this enlightening PPYC presentation.
Have you ever been on an African Birding Safari? Rick and Debbie Read treated PPYC members to an enthralling presentation with stunning photos and video from their recent two-week tour of four countries – South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Botswana. The safari included day and night rides, travel by boat, elephants, helicopter, and zip lines.
Rick has had an interest in birds for most of his life while Debbie enjoys traveling as well as seeing the birds! Their interest has sparked another 3-month Bird and Wildlife Photography outing! Starting in January and ending in March, the Reads offer members the opportunity to take golf carts or cars in search of photo subjects as they travel. The length of these photo journeys can last as long as members wish to search. Every week there will be different days and times to seek the perfect photo! Any animal will do, but birds are the most common and easiest to find. Attendees learn from each other for bird/animal ID or photography techniques. The group continually sends in their images to Rick, and in late April, PPYC Club members will be asked to select their favorites.
Earlier in 2025 – presentations were given on Knowing the Calusa Native American Nation, A tour of the Military Museum, Punta Gorda and a Christopher Columbus Sailing Adventure, reflecting the Club’s belief that learning does not end with formal education, but continues through shared experiences and great conversation!
UPCOMING EVENTS:
February 11, 2026 – Estate Planning, conducted by Attorney Richard Ricciardi
March 5, 2025 – Birds and Wildlife in Antarctica, Rick and Debbie Read
PPYC is a Place to Belong! Much appreciation goes to our Education Committee Chair, Suzanne Smith, and her amazing committee for keeping us engaged and looking forward to yet another year of stimulating, out-of-the-ordinary experiences. PPYC proves that a yacht club can serve as a hub for education and connection. If this sounds like your kind of Club, give us a call, and come get to know us better!
