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Rome Yacht Club Treasure Hunt
When August rolls around in the north end of Great Pond, when children start secretively conferring about decorations and costumes, and when adults revel in recollections concerning strange topics like clues, commodores, and "The Suitcase," it's all about an annual ritual that has reached its third generation of families in this Rome lakeside neighborhood. The annual August Rome Yacht Club Treasure Hunt, held this year on August 12, is about to begin. Although winds would be helpful — may the best combination of brains and brawn win, because that's what it really takes. Initiated in 1975 by Kay McClure and Kathy (Lowell) McClure as a treasure hunt to encourage small boat sailing and as a fun way to socialize with neighbors, the Rome Yacht Club was officially formed and chartered in 1976 and Commodore Walter "Slim" Melvin elected. Its home was and still is "The Suitcase," which holds the Commodore's outfit. The date for the hunt was fixed at the first or second Saturday in August, and a Clue Master or two would be designated each year. 
Thirty years later, sailboats and sociability are still the driving force behind the ritual, with a lot of great memories Among this year's cast of characters, aside from the motley crews of the sailboats, are Commodore Chip Bradley and Clue Masters Annie McClure Noel and Sarah Melvin. Sailboats from away (the other side of the pond) are welcome to join in. Dues are $5, which buys beverages. For more information call | ||