Well…probably the most recognizable change in its ninety years. Founded in 1928, Noroton Yacht Club in Darien, CT is considered one of the premier yacht clubs on Long Island Sound and has a rich sailing tradition. The original clubhouse, first opened in 1929, was severely damaged by Hurricane Sandy and was demolished in 2016. This paved the way for the club’s symbolic rebirth with a spectacular new clubhouse, designed by Burgin Lambert Architects in Newport, RI.

The U.S. Coast Guard recently issued a Marine Safety Alert indicating that LED (light emitting diode) lights may be causing poor VHF radio and Automatic Identification System (AIS) reception. The alert, issued for informational purposes, outlines reports received from mariners concerning radio frequency interference caused by LED lamps that “were found to create potential safety hazards.”

In celebration of their 125th anniversary, Elco Motor Yachts, headquartered in Athens, NY, is expanding their electric outboard motor range. The new models – the EP5, EP30 and EP50 – join the current EP9.9, EP14 and EP20 models to double the company’s range of electric outboard motor offerings.

US Sailing has added a new member to its leadership team with the hiring of sports marketing and branding professional Peter Glass. As Chief Marketing Officer, the Chappaqua, NY native will lead US Sailing’s Marketing and Communications Department.

Susan Maffei Plowden of Jamestown, RI was presented with the 2018 Anchor Award at the Rhode Island Marine Trade Association’s Industry Partnership Breakfast. The event was sponsored by Gowrie Group and held during the Newport International Boat Show last month.

Sparkman & Stephens has announced that Donald Tofias, of Newport, RI, has purchased the iconic yacht design and brokerage firm. Tofias will assume the role of President of the firm, having purchased 100% of the assets. Tofias is a lifelong sailor and founder of the W-Class Yacht Company.

Homeschooling began to grow in popularity in the 1970s when educational theorist John Holt asked parents to consider schools without walls, where kids can learn at their own pace in their own environment. This experiential-based approach has grown significantly, and today more than 2 million U.S. children are being taught from home.
Save the Bay Education Specialist Lauren Farnsworth and “Sealia” teach harbor seal anatomy on a recent seal watching expedition.

The most significant change in the Noroton Yacht Club’s last 90 years is their spectacular new clubhouse. To celebrate their new facility with the community, the club is hosting an Open House on Saturday, September 22, 2018.

As always in the Northeast, fall boat show season kicks off in the City by the Sea. Spanning 13 waterfront acres in downtown Newport, the Newport International Boat Show is among the largest and most prestigious boat shows in the country. Hundreds of sailboats and powerboats will be on display, along with a wide variety of marine products and services to enhance the nautical lifestyle. Educational seminars and hands-on training courses for the whole family are offered throughout the show.