On March 7, the Seafarers YC (SYC), of Annapolis hosted over 500 revelers at a belated Mardi Gras celebration and Change of Watch Ceremony at Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt. Newly elected Commodore David Turner recognized his predecessor, Dr. Melville Q. Wyche, for his 16 consecutive years at the helm, the longest term of any Commodore in the Club's history.
Under his direction, the clubhouse was renovated and made more accessible, a new deck constructed, a new roof applied, new fencing was installed around the pool, and the grounds landscaped. He established and actively directs the Seafarers Foundation to benefit its target populations in Prince George’s and Anne Arundel counties. He initiated the Summer Youth Program, which has been expanded, improved and institutionalized.
Vice commodore Ade Adibisis and his wife Sheila came as pirates to the Mardi Gras event.
The Summer Youth program exposes participants to maritime-related career opportunities and increases their knowledge of boating safety, environmental protection, navigation, meteorology, personal hygiene, first-aid, and etiquette while assessing and improving their swimming skills.
He established, promoted, and managed the Seafarers Health Fair and coordinates the Annual Thanksgiving Dinners for Seniors.
In addition to the music provided by the XPDs Band, the highlights of the evening were the traditional Seafarers Strut, the Umbrella Parade featuring the Members of the Seafarers' Auxiliary and Seafarer Captains who would have made Mary Poppins jealous [except for the flying part], and the crowning of the event's King and Queen, Joe Carpenter and his lovely wife, Ann.
Joe is a retired Lt. Colonel and Montford Point Marine. He is a Charter and Life Member of the Seafarers, and a past Commodore. He is also the Historian for and past DC Chapter and National president of the Montford Point Marines, who recently received the Congressional Gold Medal.
