Frank Allsman was sworn in as Commodore of the Atlantic Highlands Yacht Club at the annual Change of Watch ceremony at the Yacht Club, located in the Municipal Yacht Harbor. He succeeds Christopher Stone as the 69th commodore of the historic association.
Lou Melillo was sworn in as VIce Commodore. Melillo is a Past Commodore who served in 2004. Joe Patsco was sworn in as Rear Commodore.
Elaine Hayden and Helen Parker were sworn in to continuing terms as recording and corresponding secretaries, respectively, and Sue Hillers continues as treasurer. Fleet Captain Emily Smith and Fleet Medical officers, Cathy Patsco, RN and Dr. Mike Ferguson, as well as fleet chaplains, Carol and Peter Andrews, Club Historian Kristen Gantt Applin were also sworn in. Christopher Stone became the Immediate Past Commodore.
Board of Governors members Karen Harris, Sue Mikaitis and Kevin O’Brien will continue in their positions this year, and were joined by Barbara Nevius, Chuck Parker, and Bob Williams.
In relieving Commodore Stone of duties, Commodore Allsman assured club members he would continue the high standards set by Stone and commended the past officer for outstanding leadership during the trying times of the pandemic, establishing and overseeing stringent health guidelines while continuing to lead the club in its waterfront activities and the onset of renovations in the clubhouse.
The new Commodore also promised a year of programs and innovations and a vibrant membership drive encouragement more growth and social activities for the historic Yacht Club.
