About District 8

The International Order of the Blue Gavel was formed in 1953 and it grew and expanded. Geographic Districts were added to provide a localized base. Thus, in 1970, District 8 was formed as the logical geographical base in Florida at that time.

The Objects and Purposes of District 8 are the same as those stated in the International Bylaws, to wit:

The objects and purposes of the International Order of the Blue Gavel are:

      (a) To selectively associate ladies and gentlemen of good character having a common love and appreciation of yachting and social and outdoor activities of every kind on the basis of background, character, personality, and social acceptability.

      (b) To provide Past Commodores with more extensive opportunity for worthwhile yachting activities for the purpose of cultivating, strengthening, perpetuating and preserving the ties of continued friendship, honor, benevolence, sportsmanship, fraternal and social relationships among Past Commodores of yacht clubs and yachting associations.

      (c) To subscribe to and stimulate interest in abiding by recognized yachting traditions, ceremonies, customs, ethics and etiquette. To provide for, though with limitation thereto, appropriate recognition of past and continuing service on the part of Past Commodores to their Club, the IOBG and yachting in the form of suitable insignia, flags, activities, awards, and honors.

      (d) To aid and promote, by precept and example, the development of more able and knowledgeable yachtsmen and women, that they may participate in yachting activities and marine events and ceremonies of every kind as a result of high standards of honor, tradition, good sportsmanship, and the fraternal and social relationships experienced by and between Past Commodores.

      (e) To encourage and promote the continuing interest and service of qualified and proven Past Commodores to their own yacht club and its activities without in any way usurping the authorities and responsibilities of the incumbent Officers, for the best interest of the Club.

      (f) To encourage and promote yachting and in all ways seek to provide, through the yacht club Chapter, a practical means to support, facilitate and augment the endeavors of the active Officers of the Club. By advising and counseling such Officers to the end of enhancing the pleasure and well being of all members and the prestige of the Club.

      (g) To make and adopt Bylaws and Rules and Regulations for the admission and administration of its members, as well as for their suspension and expulsion, for the election of its Officers and defining their duties, and for the safekeeping, management and disposition of its property and funds. From time to time to alter, modify or repeal such Bylaws or Rules and Regulations as may be required.