The 96th Annual D.R.Y.L. Banquet

                The 96th Annual D.R.Y.L. Banquet was February 27th at Cannstatters German Club in Northeast Philadelphia.  There were 19 member clubs in attendance that enjoyed this annual event.   After the cocktail hour, introduction and swearing in of Officers, an excellent dinner was served.  Like many, Mary & I split our meals so that we got to enjoy both the Prime Rib and the Stuffed flounder.  After dinner a creamy cheese cake with raspberry sauce was served and if you couple that to our coffee and dessert table - it made for a very nice meal.  The dinner dance party continued all night with a short break to give out awards.  All but one club competition award went to Bridesburg as they dominated all the events this past year except for  Quoits’ which was won by Yapewi AC. 

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         This year’s new MC was Bob Bocock and he did a wonderful job handling the event for us.  It was nothing short of an excellent evening out with many friends from up and down river as well as from down the Bay.  CBYCA Commodore Butler, Bush River YC Fleet Captain Mike Smith and his lovely wife Michele attended.  It was truly just a great way to kick off the 2010 Boating Season. 

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I would like to give thanks to Banquet Committee Head, my lovely wife Mary for putting the evening together for us. Everyone seemed to have had a great time and enjoyed the music as the dance floor was loaded with future Dancing With The Stars contestants. 

          We Honored 2 people within the organization for their service and efforts to the DRYL.  One recipient - Butch Gricco, was on vacation in the Caribbean and was not present.  The other recipient was Joe Campbell.  These gentlemen have been involved in boating and the league for many years.

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           The GST / D.R.Y.L. Club Of the Year was nominated by The City of Philadelphia Police Athletic League Department and presented to Neshaminy Harbor YC for their good will efforts to the kids from various Philadelphia Police Athletic League centers from within Philadelphia.  NHYC has been taking PAL kids out for luncheon cruises on the Delaware River where they learn about the history of the river, boating and water safety, and enjoy snacks, lunch, games, and gifts.  This past year they were treated to a luncheon cruise on the Spirit Of Philadelphia, last year they enjoyed a paddle boat ride on the Liberty Belle.  NHYC is a club willing to give a little back to the kids in the community and hope that other clubs follow their lead and do the same for kids in their area.

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          Next we presented the DR.Y.L. Person Of the Year Award to River Winds YC Member Mark Brasberger for his efforts to clubs in the DRYL as well as to the DRYL itself.  Volunteering his time when ever and where ever he is at.  Truly a man that every organization would love to have, and we are lucky to have him in ours.

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The Princesses and Queen Carla were introduced and our Queen spoke very elegantly about her reign as Queen and thanked her family, her club and the DRYL.

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This event brings out familiar faces and friends for an evening of fun and comradery.  When I leave this event it just makes me want spring and summer to get here that much faster.  The thought of gathering with our “ Boating Family “ and enjoying the waters of the Delaware River has me stir crazy awaiting for summer.

If you attended we thank you for your support … if you were unable to attend we hope to see you next year! - Juice