On Sunday December 31, 2023 The “Town and River Cruise Club” Held a “New Year’s Eve Party” with 42 members and residents of our community attended along with Friends and Guests. The Party was hosted by Kenny and Donna Ray &”Vice Commodore” at the Ray’s pool patio and deck. New members and guests were introduced by their sponsors/friends. The whole pool area and lanai were decorated in “2024” decorations, including pink flamingos in the pool. The Weather gave us a nice break and the outside party turned out comfortably for all who attended.

At the “New Year’s Eve Party” there was the customary 50/50 drawing which continued for another half hour with a jar of Skittles and M&Ms for everyone to guess the quantity involved. The Winner that guessed 1,102 won a $50.00 Gift Card. About a dozen prizes were raffled off. Meanwhile attendees descended on the appetizers which included stuffed mushrooms, meatballs, Rice Balls and other tasty things. The buffet table was cleared to make room for the roast beef and chicken parm, and sides and many desert varieties of cookies, mini cannolis. The Buffett was supplied from Mario’s meat market
who did an amazing Job.

One of the last items that was discussed is the need/help recruiting a new Commodore and Vice-Commodore. Membership in the Town and River Cruise Club is open to all residents of the Town and River Community. It’s not necessary to have a boat but to just join in on our functions and participate in enjoying the boating way of life and all events.

As an aside on December 9th the Cruise club had their annual boat Parade in our canal system. It started with a late luncheon at Deep Lagoon and proceeded to the North Canal. Eventually about 20 vessels participated in the cruise, being waved on and encouraged by the local residents on their docks.

The Cruise Club would like to thank Donna and Ken Ray for the gracious use of their house for our annual event. Also much appreciated is that all food and drink were generously provided by the Rays.