Fair Winds Father Rick

May 24, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

Father Rick’s obituary has been published and has information about his services:

A life-long Red Sox fan, Father Albamonti always had a sense of adventure. After his college graduation, he and his roommate rode their motorcycles to Mexico and back, causing many hours of prayer in the Albamonti household. But it was his love of boating that kept him busy in his off hours; he was a member of the Thames Yacht Club, and several years ago made a solo voyage from New London to Key West, Florida.

Visiting hours will be held from 9 – 10 a.m. on Friday, May 29, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, 211 Broadway, Norwich, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will be at St. Mary’s & St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich.

 

Thames Yacht Club Launches 93rd Sailing Season

May 18, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

On a beautiful, summer-like Saturday in May, the Thames Yacht Club officially welcomed the start of the 2026 boating season with its annual commissioning ceremony, bringing members together for an evening of tradition, celebration, and camaraderie.

More than 85 new and longtime members filled both the upper and lower decks in their Sunday best as outgoing Commodore Rebecca Turner passed the helm to incoming Commodore Colin Redhead, who formally opened TYC’s 93rd sailing season.

Norwich Free Academy senior Grace Bouley performed the National Anthem, and James Dickerson played the bagpipes.

Membership Chair Judith Redhead distributed burgees as she welcomed new senior members Greg and Theresa Messner, John Burkhardt and Bettina Olshausen, Spencer Alsup, Prescott and Laura Powers, Alan and Colette Skinner, Kenny and Joanne Dahill, Richard Bolles, Chris and Kiki Silvestri, and Robert Smith and Ines Bassene. 

“This weekend always reminds us what makes this club special,” said TYC Secretary Leigh Reinhart. “There’s pride in our traditions, excitement for the sailing season ahead, and real enthusiasm about the food and dining experience at the club as well.”

Members expressed optimism about the months ahead, looking forward to summer gatherings, dinners on the porch, club cruises, racing, and upcoming events featuring creations from Ozzie’s galley.

“There’s a real sense of momentum around the club right now,” said Doug Arey.

“Between the success of the Mother’s Day brunch, Commissioning Day, and the excitement surrounding the new galley, it feels like this is going to be one of the best summers TYC has had in years,” said Redhead.

Redhead also introduced the winner of the first annual James Avery Youth Sailing Scholarship. Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School fifth grader Jasmine Acosta and a friend will spend two weeks in TYC’s Youth Sailing program learning how to sail and deepening their connection to the water.  

“Everything was beautifully done, the food was delicious, and the music was a wonderful addition to the evening,” said past commodores Wayne Gammo and Rob Amrein.

Musician Jim Macaukey provided live guitar music during dinner, adding to the evening’s festive atmosphere.

With the 2026 season officially underway, the Thames Yacht Club enters the summer with renewed energy, strong traditions, and a full calendar of events centered around sailing, friendship, and good food.

“It was a beautiful evening. The new commodore and executive committee did an excellent job putting it all together and the musicians added a nice touch to the event,” said Brian and Kim Weekley. 

Fair Winds John Sawchuk

May 2, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

John will be fondly remembered for the years he spent at the Thames Yacht Club, where his love of cooking and community came fully to life. As manager of the kitchen for many years, he brought people together not just through meals, but through warmth, humor, and a genuine pride in his work. 

Whether preparing food for longtime members or welcoming new faces, John created an atmosphere that reflected who he was: generous, hardworking, and deeply connected to those around him. 

His time at the club stood as a defining chapter of his life, where friendships were strengthened, memories were made, and his presence left a lasting mark on all who gathered there.  

Please take a moment to read his wonderful obituary.

Donations can be made to the Colchester Federated Church or the Bacon Academy Trustees for building restorations.

Join Us!

April 10, 2026  |   | Comment  | Latest News

Please join us for the Connecticut Spring Boat Show, which will return to historic Essex April 24-26. This year, the show marks its 10th year, and for the first time, the Thames Yacht Club will attend and showcase the benefits of TYC membership at a vendor table.

Purchase tickets here:

With over 2,000 attendees raising more than $17,000 for Sails Up 4 Cancer last year, this year’s event will be even better! Here’s why:

The 2026 show promises expanded exhibit and performance areas, along with a broader selection of boats and marine-related displays. Attendees can expect to board a wide range of boats at the docks, connect with industry experts, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend.

Tickets purchased prior to April 23 are $22 each, available online, and valid for all three days of the event. After April 23, tickets are $26 each. Purchase tickets by clicking here!

Half of the proceeds from each ticket sale go to support SailsUp4Cancer.

Please note that parking is often hard to find, and you may end up walking several blocks to reach the dock.

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