Yacht Club celebrates 112 years

The sun shone brightly and the rain held off as the Old Mill Yacht Club celebrated its 112th anniversary this past Sunday with an opening-day ceremony in Howard Beach.
The Old Mill Yacht Club officially kicked off its boating season and honored the present officers and members as well as those that are no longer with us.
“The purpose of this is to open up the official part of the boating season and to wish everybody smooth sailing for a safe season,” said Vice Commodore John Cameron.
The Old Mill Yacht Club, located at 163-15 Cross Bay Boulevard, was founded in 1896 and has been in its present location since the mid nineties. The club currently has around 60 members and is open year-round. The club’s building hosts many social events throughout the year including the meetings of the Republican and Democratic Clubs and other community meetings. The Old Mill serves as a social club for its members and remains to this day a place many call a second home.
Commodore Stanley Wojnarowski, who has been a member for 25 years, received a boat from his uncle when he was 16 and hasn’t stopped sailing since. “There is good camaraderie here. It’s a family-oriented club and that’s why all these people that are members are friends.” Wojnarowksi said.
The Ladies Auxiliary is an important component of the Club and its members include wives, girlfriends, and daughters. The Auxiliary provides much-needed support to the Club and its contributions are immeasurable.
Terry Caruso, President of the Ladies Auxiliary, along with her husband, Treasurer James Caruso, have been members since 1985. The Ladies Auxiliary is active in the community and participates in many charitable projects including Easter and Christmas parties for the local children. Caruso is happy to be part of such a great group. “This is a community club. The Old Mill represents friendship. It’s like another family. You get to know everyone personally. You know their children, you know their grandchildren,” Caruso said.
Wojnarowski commended the Ladies Auxiliary for all of their hard work throughout the year. “They put their heart, soul and effort into all of their endeavors. They take care of sick children and do a lot of charity work. We couldn’t do it without them,” he said.
Following the marching of officers and members into the ceremony area, Chaplain Neil Winberry delivered the invocation. The officers were recognized, and the club’s flags and the American flag were raised to the tune of “You’re A Grand Old Flag.” Afterwards, a brief ceremony was held to remember fallen members and past comrades. Wojnarowski and Caruso placed a wreath in the bay behind the club to honor those that will never be forgotten. After the ceremony, the members, the children and everyone who makes The Old Mill Club what it is today, celebrated with food, drink, and music on a beautiful day that was meant for sailing.
The Old Mill is a community club that promotes boating safety.
“That is our main job,” said Sal Mazza, a member for 12 years. “There have been a lot of good members throughout the years. It’s great to see all the support of the local politicians and everybody to come out and give us a good hand,” Mazza said.
City Councilmember Joseph Addabbo took part in the festivities to show support for the club and its veterans. “It’s great to be out here. Old Mill is such a part of Howard Beach and its tradition. I’m always mindful that when I’m here I stand amongst many veterans,” Addabbo said. “I’m of the belief that Veterans Day is not just one day, it’s everyday, so we wish them a happy, safe season, but we also like to thank the veterans who are part of The Old Mill Yacht Club for their service to our country.”