2020 CANDIDATES FOR THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS 

The 2020 Annual Meeting of YPRC is scheduled for Monday, December 14, at 7:00 PM via Zoom.

An invitation to vote electronically will be sent to all members in good standing on November 12, 2020. All votes must be received by December 8, 2020. Results of the election will be announced during the Annual Meeting on Monday, December 14, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. The meeting access link will be provided in a separate email. The newly elected board members will begin serving immediately.

There are eleven positions on the Yonkers Paddling and Rowing Club Board. Six board members' terms are up: Philomena Donnelly, Heather Gordon, Nancy Kalafus, Lenore Person, Peter Riley, and Roger Scheiber. There are eight candidates for these spots. 
​
Six candidates must be elected to fill positions for the 2020-21 season. All positions being voted for are "Member-At-Large." All Board positions are for a two-year-terms. In alternating years, five or six positions become open. After the election, the newly elected and sitting Board Members will determine who will hold the open executive positions of Treasurer and Secretary. 
The candidates were asked to respond to five questions regarding YPRC. Their responses can be viewed below by clicking each candidate's name. 

​The eight candidates for the 2021 Board of Directors of Yonkers Paddling and Rowing Club are as follows:
x
PHILOMENA DONNELLY​
​
Why did you join YPRC?
I met Robbie Hothan and Jerry Blackstone at a Yonkers walking tour event several years ago. I won the “one hour paddle” certificate and I never looked back. I not only “jumped” into kayaking but became very involved with the Club. I joined because I wanted a new sport to look to as I had, due to a back issue, all but eliminated cycling and was thinking of cutting back on horseback riding.
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
The camaraderie is a very important aspect of what I value as well as the diversity of the people and lifestyles who share a common interest.
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
I believe I have offered a lot with my volunteer work in a very diverse set of circumstances whether it has been the public program, dock pulls and put ins, Tuesday pot luck dinner set up / break down, assisting with new racks, leading paddles, etc. However, as a Board member, I feel with life experience as well as prior Board member experiences (at other organizations), I can contribute ideas or a perspective to issues at hand. As Board Secretary, I believe my contribution of record keeping has been a plus to the Club.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
At this juncture, no, but I am open to new ideas and I am very pleased at our recent outreach to local kids in the community.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?
I do not believe “require” and “volunteer” belong together. We have been fortunate that each time we have been in need of volunteers, our members have stepped up. It tends to be the same people over and over so it would be nice to see other members and the future of our Club, younger members, contribute their time, no matter how little, which is likely to give them the “bug” to do more. Volunteer work gives you a “stake” in the Club.
x
NANCY KALAFUS
​
Why did you join YPRC?
I joined YPRC 20 years ago to be a part of a great paddling community.
 
What do you most value about the club now?
The club has worked extremely hard to build a great community organization that offers programs and paddles for beginners to expert.  I value the personal relationships and many offerings that the club provides. Before the pandemic, there were regularly-scheduled paddles and or skills classes almost every night of the week. During this year of the pandemic, the club members offered dozens of open paddles run by volunteers.  This resulted in hundreds of people being given the opportunity to paddle.
In addition, the Hudson River Riders program ran Junior paddles that allowed us to add youth and diversity to our club. This was a goal of the board and it was fulfilled.
 
What can you offer as a member of the board?
I can provide a living History of the club from the 1960's to the present. I was a racing member of the Yonkers Canoe Club.The Yonkers Canoe Club was established in 1886 as a sailing, canoe and kayak racing club. Members of YCC were represented in all Olympic games from 1936 to 1964. In addition, club members won dozens of National Championships.
 
I have offered a Saturday morning "Kayak Fitness with Race Technique" class for the past 3 years and would continue to do so once we are clear of the COVID-19 restrictions.  I have also been a member of the diversity committee.  For 3 years I organized and Ran the kayak portion of the "Girl Power" event at the Yonkers P.A.L to introduce community members to our club.
I would be very interested in continuing my involvement as a Board Member.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
I think we have a wide array of classes and courses that should be continued.
The junior program started this summer should continue and be expanded. It is very important to get our youth involved and hopefully stay interested so that we have a new young group of members to lead us into the future.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
I do not think we should mandate that members volunteer.  We should continue to strongly encourage all members to volunteer as much as they can.
x
JOHN MAGGIOTTO
​
Why did you join YPRC?
A friend led me to YPRC back in 2004.  I found its members very generous and helpful in my desire to enjoy the river for recreation. My youth was spent in rowing shells as a coxswain from 16 to 22yrs.  I loved the opportunity to return to human powered boats.  When I'm in my boat I know that for the duration of the trip little else matters, it's time to enjoy nature, exercise and my paddling partners.
 
What do you most value about the Club now? 
The community of paddlers who enjoy paddling as much as I do. 
The opportunity to store a boat so close to the water and a safe seasonal launch that is unparalleled on the Hudson.  The Club's commitment to environmental education for our youth and its programs to expand the water recreation opportunities for these young residents in a waterfront City.
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
I have the experience of a policy and procedures expert from my work at the Nat'l Endowment for the Arts and the NYC Dept. of Cultural Affairs.  This was very valuable in my former position as Commodore of the YPRC 2010 to 2015.  I am acting as Treasurer for the Club, and if elected I will be willing to serve in this capacity.  
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
I would be open to any ideas members would like to put before the board.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
Required volunteer activities are not voluntary.  I would encourage as much participation as possible as this the best way to get to know your fellow members.
 
For YPRC to offer as many programs as it does now and accommodate the security and safety needs of a growing membership, many volunteers are needed.  If the individual members cannot provide this need with their time, they should expect to provide more in treasure.  The Club will begin to ensure the provision of services the membership expects through paid stipends and salary to qualified trip leaders and House officers.  An increase of $50 is the first increase in five years.  It is the first request in treasure to make up the shortfall in member's participation.  I would consider a rebate for members who reach a certain level of volunteering, should the Board move in that direction.  Many members who cannot give time are in demanding occupations and their relationship to the Club is one for relaxation, not more work.  The increased fees will allow us to offer compensation to the members who could use a part-time position to help them afford any hardship an increased fee would present.
x
NAZARIA MARTE
​
Why did you join YPRC?
I learned about YPRC through Yonkers Public Schools. I used to bring my daughters to the public kayaking on Thursdays at the JFK Marina. This year, I was finally able to join the club since my kids are older and I now have a more flexible work schedule. 
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
Participating at the club allowed me to enjoy being in the water, help me deal with stress, gave me space, kept me active specifically during this pandemic. At the club I felt welcomed. I loved all the suggestions from seasoned paddlers. The fact that I was receiving feedback during the trips about my paddling and my posture really helped me make improvements. 
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
I know the club is a great resource to the community. I would like to assist in promoting the club to attract new members.  Specifically, a younger and diverse group to promote the longevity of the club.  This can be achieved by utilizing social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
Kayaking across the river and then hiking was a great experience. I believe we should continue planning those trips. In addition, we should offer Paddle Boarding to keep meetings exciting for newer members. Some people prefer the flexibility of standing, kneeling or sitting, because this keeps them engaged.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
I agree with volunteer work, it gives a sense of community and responsibility. Hopefully, the more we grow the program, the more opportunities we will have to serve the community.
x
LENORE PERSON

Why did you join YPRC?
I first heard of YPRC about twenty years ago when I saw a flyer announcing that the club was going to paddle their large canoe from Albany to Yonkers. By some good fortune, I was able to join that trip! Bob Morrow kayaked alongside our canoe and his paddling looked so effortless—watching him convinced me that kayaking was more fun than canoeing. Several years later, while I was working at Beczak Environmental Education Center, I joined YPRC in order to kayak more.
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
I love the easy access to the Hudson and being part of an active paddling community with many opportunities to be on the water together, always with an emphasis on safety. I am grateful for this path that brings more peaceful moments on the water into my life.  
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
I am excited about is passing on what I have been given: teaching others to paddle and helping to lead trips. I became a Level 2 ACA Instructor this past summer after helping to lead many of the smaller paddles.
I also use my background in public relations to bring local media’s attention to the wonderful things happening at YPRC. For instance, I wrote the press release that brought LoHud to our Junior Paddling Program this past summer.
As past secretary for YPRC, I am also familiar with many of the procedures and tools the club uses and happy to contribute.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
I am interested in working with others to create a multi-day paddle trip or two. I’d also like to explore more interclub excursions so YPRC could paddle with Sebago or Inwood or even a club further away, using each other’s club boats.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?
I don’t think so. However, I think that developing a volunteer recruitment strategy that regularly communicates opportunities to pitch in and recognizes/rewards those who do would help YPRC engage more members. 
x
PETER RILEY

Why did you join YPRC?
YPRC attracted me because of several things. Its history for one but more importantly the depth of experience of its members and their willingness to share that experience with new members. Also the value YPRC places on the strengths of all its members and the learn from each other ethic which I have found to be quite strong.
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
YPRC's outreach to new paddlers and members of the surrounding community. Also its willingness to try new programs to attract the new members which are so important to the long term viability of the club.
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
My 10 years as a member and 7 years on the Board gives me a unique perspective as we go into our future as a club. I enjoy teaching and bringing new members up to speed so they can more fully appreciate our great river.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
Basic seamanship including knots, reading the river, anticipating tides and reading weather patterns. Also a basic CPR class and first aid would be helpful.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
For the past 10 years this has been discussed and tried to no avail. Besides the contradiction in requiring volunteering; people bring their own goals when joining a club such as ours. Some only want to paddle and have no interest in socializing or helping. They store their boat or use one of the club's and that ends it. And that should remain their prerogative. Forcing them to participate further does not help. Any organization has the doers and the non-doers. Increasing the former without alienating the latter should be our goal. Having said that there could be a reward for doing without an accompanying penalty for non-doing. Cash usually works to solve such a conundrum: either as payment or a reduction in fees. I would prefer trying the former next season.
x
ROGER SCHEIBER

Why did you join the Club?
Living near the Hudson River I have always wanted to have access to use it for recreation.  A club member friend brought me down to a Tuesday night paddle and I knew that this was for me.  In a word I ”sucked” at paddling but the support and help that I received from the club members was beyond terrific. The first three times I went out I wound up in the water. I think they were getting tired of pulling back into the kayak so I figured I better figure this out soon. Members were incredibly patient and supportive that I would get it sooner or later.  I was probably one of the slowest learners but eventually I got there and am very happy to come as much as possible.
I am also amazed at what an incredible VOLUNTERR organization this is and love its history and the many wonderful Club members I now have as friends.
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
I value the many friendships that I have made and the enjoyment of being with them.  The programming and sharing and teaching kayaking to all are wonderful. I also am happy to be berthed in a very cool old Clubhouse.
Also, the Club’s standards of Safety and teaching skills are impressive.
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
My background as a craftsman, business owner, investment advisor, past President of the Greenburgh Nature Center and 2 decades of professional management of a large Chamber of Commerce brings many skills to the table. 
I also am the type of person who once they get seriously involved will be there all the time.
I also actually like helping new people.     
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
Primarily, I think the club is doing a lot of programs and want to see that the programs we have are done well.  I would like to broaden our reach out to include kayaking for even a broader community, especially for those who can not afford it otherwise.  
 
 Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
I am amazed at how good club members are at volunteering.  That said I would like to see that all Club members take on some tasks to share the workload.  I feel that volunteering is a part of membership in YPRC.
x
LEE WORDSMAN

Why did you join YPRC?
I grew up as a member of the Yonkers Canoe Club starting at age 13 and have always had a special place in my heart for the River and the Club. As I grew, I served as Fleet Captain (coaching the racing team) and then as Commodore. The old YCC was a very special place for me as a young person. After I got married, got a job and had children, I drifted away from the Club. I still always maintained my love for kayaking and this past summer spent some time paddling on the Delaware River with my children. We had such a great time that I decided to see what was going on at YPRC. It was the best decision I have made in a long time. At the same time, the Jr. Paddling program was starting and my 12 year old daughter Riley was so excited to participate –She loved it!! Finding such a vibrant community at YPRC was just wonderful. My family and I are really happy to be part of YPRC.
 
What do you most value about the Club now?
I love that the Club provides one of the few opportunities for people of all walks of life to access and enjoy the Hudson River.  That that opportunity is provided in such an open, caring way makes it even more special.  The commitment to diversity and to getting young people involved is amazing and something I’d love to help further. 
 
What can you offer to the Club as a member of the Board?
I think I can offer a few things. I’m outgoing and interested in teaching others.  My history with the YCC includes teaching and training over 100 young people to paddle and enjoy the Hudson River. I’m also a ready volunteer and love participating and/or leading group activities, whether they be work parties or paddling or social gatherings. My background as an Environmental Scientist with expertise in regulatory compliance may also be of value as the club continues to navigate the political waters of Yonkers and Westchester County.
 
Are there any programs you would add or end for YPRC?
If young people are interested in learning how to use a racing boat, I’d love to help organize a program to provide such an opportunity. Also, one of the things I enjoy when I’m on the river is logging miles. There might be interest in a program targeted to intermediate and experienced paddlers that provides an opportunity to push yourself physically. Maybe a 10K program where a few nights a week, you know there is a group that is going to go out for a distance paddle. I’d also be interested in doing any community outreach, if such a program where identified as suitable.
 
Should members be required to “volunteer” for Club activities and programs?  
I don’t believe in requiring volunteerism. I think the best programs work when people are motivated by a common interest to get things done. My experience with the old YCC is that strong leadership results in strong volunteerism. That said, the need for help needs to be clearly stated and outreach to members to get them involved and engaged is critical. Sometimes folks want to help but don’t know how to get engaged. Additionally, perhaps a program to recognize those that do participate would be appropriate.