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PGI CRUISING CLUB Larry MacKinnon, pgilarry@centurylink.net

Back in 1997, before many of us had even discovered Punta Gorda, there was an interest in
boating with the members of the PGI Civic Association. But at that time, there were no
organized boating clubs in the Civic Association. Along come Tony and Jane Recine and on
September 18, 1997, the PGI Cruising Club was born! The first meeting was held at the old
Civic Association building with 84 members
signing up that night and with Tony becoming
our first president.
Tony’s philosophy was
“Our goal is to
Tony Recine encourage all members
to enjoy their boating
experience and to
cruise these beautiful
waterways of Southwest
Florida.” What’s the first
thing you need when
you have a boat club? A
Burgee! Their first
burgee was a
homemade model
attached to an
aluminum pole with ty-
wraps! Since that time,
several other boat clubs
emerged after the start
of the Cruising Club.
Following the Cruising
Club came the Mariners
of PGI, the PGIslanders,
and the PGI Seafarers. In all, the start of the Cruising Club made our
life in Punta Gorda MUCH more enjoyable. We will be celebrating our
20th anniversary at our annual dinner dance on November 4, at the
Twin Isles Country Club. So, to Tony and Jane, we all thank you for
your vision on boating and making what we have enjoyed for 20 years,
The PGI Cruising Club.

PGI Cruising Club 1997

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