LMPS Remembers 2021
with Awards During a Holiday Celebration

Americas Boating Club Lake Murray once again gathered to celebrate the Holidays. The gathering was held at Yacht Cove, and 83 members enjoyed a delicious dinner catered by Blue Marlin. Special dinner guests, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, visited with everyone and were gracious enough to pose for photos throughout the evening while our bartenders made sure no one went thirsty while everyone mingled and enjoyed holiday music before the business meeting began and the 2021 awards were presented.

The evening fun kicked off with Santa recognizing members with bags of candy or coal, depending on whether he had determined they were naughty or nice. Then everyone got on board with clapping for winners of the Christmas sweater contest. First up was winner of the Best Ladies Sweater, Diane Bruce, while Lt Joe Firimonte won Best Men's Sweater and the Best Couple award went to Diane and P/C Charlie Bruce, although they had a close run against Susan and P/C Fred Ruinen. Be sure to check out the photos below.

Presentation of the evening's awards began with the Commander’s Award, which is solely determined by the commander to recognize someone who has been an asset in making Lake Murray a better squadron. The 2021 Commander's Award was presented to P/C Rick Agar by P/C Ed Garbe who cited Rick's efforts in obtaining and spreading gravel on the causeway to Flotilla Island, as well as spearheading obtaining and installing the building's new HVAC system.

The squadron's most prestigious service award, the Golden Anchor Award, was then presented to P/C RJ Becht. This award is presented annually to a squadron member "for distinguished and unselfish service to the squadron with outstanding leadership, vision and ability.” RJ's unwavering and enthusiastic support and promotion of LMPS  was cited in presenting the award.

The Rusty Anchor Award, presented to a member that has an inadvertent entry in to the water, was presented to Robert Blalock for his dip while boats at a raft up were attempting to pull anchor and return to the docks before a thunderstorm.

Finally, the Spark Plug Award is given to a new member who started their squadron career with a real spark. P/C Ed Garbe presented the award to Jim Aleshire for the untold hours he put in repainting the inside of our building. 

For those wondering about the recipient of the infamous Bent Prop Award that is presented annually to the member who inflicts in a most spectacular fashion the most damage to his or her vessel or the vessel and/or property of others -- there was no recipient identified although Lake Murray held several on-the-water activities during year two of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Congratulations (or condolences) to all of the recipients of these awards and we look forward to seeing who will be recognized for contributions this coming year. Click on the first thumbnail to open a few scenes from the party and photos of our award winners!