Marco Cruise Club Commodore Ball

The Marco Cruise Club has been a fixture on Marco Island for 46 years now and dedicates its mission to not only promoting safety while on the waters but also promoting friendship and fun, both on the water and while on land. On Monday, the 15th of January, the club assembled at the Island Club, where the Annual Change of Watch Ceremony and Commodore’s Ball was held. The club has a strong membership of approximately 120 members, many of whom attended the ceremonial installation of the new Bridge for the 2024 season. Boating on Marco has continued to grow in popularity here in our area these last several years with increases in first-time owners.

After dinner, Master of Ceremonies and Past Commodore Bob Madaio explained the tradition and importance of the "Change of Watch." He recognized and thanked the 2023 bridge, board, and past commodores for their service. He thanked the outgoing Commodore Terry Raymer for his service, giving him his Past Commodores pin, flag and gift. Commodore Terry Raymer reflected on the past year and thanked everyone for their support. Gifts of appreciation were presented to Charlie Schwalje, Cindy McKeown, Sandy Miller and Stacey Stevens.

Commodore Terry Raymer administered the oath to the new 2024 Commodore Ed Bauersfeld, who then proceeded to administer oaths to the new 2024 bridge (Vice Commodore) Cindy McKeown, (Rear Commodore) Tom Stam, Treasurer Joyce Madaio, Secretary Debbie Boyer.

The new commodore, Ed Bauersfeld then introduced to the attendees the 2024 Board of Directors: Dan Lange, Don Harty, Charlie Schwalje, Sandy Miller, Stacey Stevens, Deena Procopio, Jay Gullo, Terry Pasch, Colleen Schmidt.

With the conclusion of the business portion of the meeting, local DJ Ken Hodson cranked up the music and members proceeded to the dance floor.

The Marco Cruise Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month beginning in November at the Mackle Park Community Center, where a guest speaker and a short business meeting are held, along with an update on cruises being planned. Members usually meet for a social gathering and dinner after the meeting. You may learn more about the club by going to www.marcocruiseclub.com.