SCYC Si Wood Memorial Trophy for 2021

It’s my pleasure to announce that the Si Wood Memorial Trophy for 2021 has been awarded to Doug Herchmer and Joanne McIIveen.

The Si Wood Trophy is awarded annually to a member(s) selected by the Commodore in recognition of services rendered to the Schooner Cove Yacht Club.   Doug and Jo – both individually and collectively as a couple, are emblematic of what this award stands for. Which is to recognize exceptional volunteers who dedicate significant time and effort to help with club duties and details, along with spreading the good word about our organization.

The trophy is normally presented at the annual Commodore’s ball in November. However, given the circumstances of limited public gatherings, the trophy was presented to Doug and Jo on Feb 11th.

Doug and Jo have long been a Vancouver Island based couple. Given this background along with the fact that they are both adventurers, the two of them have gained extensive experience throughout the island. Their love of the island extends to knowledge of trees, plants, birds and aquatic animals. Many of us have benefited from their background, learning about secluded kayaking spots, sharing their favorite fishing locations, mountain hikes and ski trails at Mount Washington.

Doug Herchmer and Jo McIIveen joined SCYC in 2013.  Very soon after they quickly established themselves as a couple who enjoyed participating in club events along with getting to know new members.  Since joining SCYC they have taken their power boat to explore the Salish Sea from the Broughton Archipelago down to and through the Southern Gulf Islands.

Doug and Jo both came onto the SCYC executive together, as co-Staff Captains in 2017 and again in 2018. Together, they carefully planned and executed numerous cruises which all SCYC members found very fun and safe. Most recently they yet again offered their talents by helping to make the 2021 SCYC Rendezvous at Telegraph Harbour a great success.

As volunteers, SCYC has benefited hugely from the time and efforts that they both have lent to the club.  Their contribution is extensive.   Jo offering her talent by capturing some terrific photographs at club events and making sure that new members to the club feel welcome.  On club cruises, Jo’s the one that’s up the earliest, the one that extends her helping hand – organizing the events, sharing her extensive fishing knowledge along with catching fish for dinner.  After two seasons as co-Staff Captain, Doug took on the role of Rear Commodore in 2019 and again in 2020, 2021 and now 2022.  As Rear Commodore Doug’s engagement has been extensive. He has successfully managed our 6 cruising stations and in doing so keeps the membership up to date. Doug is also the main SCYC representative to the Council of BC Yacht Clubs and regularly contributes to that organization. Most recently in 2021, Doug offered his talents in supporting the successful purchase of West Ballenas Island by BC Parks Foundation. Now in his 6 year on the SCYC executive, Doug continues to enjoy the role and Jo continues to support him.

Doug and Jo exemplify the spirt of SCYC. Their positive attitude is appreciated by all members and goes a long way to enticing much needed new members to our club. I ask you to please extend your congratulations and thanks to Jo and Doug at your first opportunity.

In closing, our club is made up by many individuals who generously share their time, talent and enthusiasm, and for this the club executive thanks all the volunteers who give so much of themselves to SCYC and expect so little in return. We are truly grateful.

Sincerely,

Scott Brown — Past Commodore