CPYC Establishes New Scholarship for Winthrop High School Seniors

Determined that something good come from the coronavirus pandemic, members and families of the Cottage Park Yacht Club have established a new scholarship for graduating seniors of Winthrop High School.

The award, “The Commodore Peter Towner C.P.Y.C. Educational Scholarship,” is named for the current commodore, Peter Towner, whose tirelessness and leadership guided the organization through the difficult months of the pandemic, as the country and community battled COVID-19. CPYC remained open during those months, providing a haven for members and a safe place – with tables distanced and air filtered in the organization’s large ballroom – to escape lockdown’s confines, in large part due to Towner’s constant presence and tireless efforts.

“For almost two years now, Pete was seen almost every night at the club doing anything and everything to keep our club running and on an even keel — making stock runs, serving and bussing tables, bartending, cooking, cleaning, and attending dozens of meetings,” Vice Commodore John Cataldo said in a letter to members about the scholarship. “He has dedicated every spare moment to the club and has given of himself not only to our members but to our community as a whole, through efforts such as food drives, blood and clothing drives. Without Pete’s steadfast determination, knowledge, and passion, our club would likely have shuttered during the pandemic. Indeed, he has humbly worked quietly and tirelessly for us all, without expectation.”

Fundraising is continuing for the award, and Cottage Park members have so far contributed more than $40,000. The intent is that one-tenth of the total raised will be given each year for the next 10 years to the college-bound Winthrop High School senior who best exemplifies the dedication, selflessness, and leadership exhibited by Towner over the last 20 months and who has made “an exceptional and lasting impact on people, our community, or the environment.”

The first recipient will be named this spring — as CPYC marks its 120th anniversary as a member of the Winthrop community — during WHS graduation ceremonies.