PAGE 8 • SUMMER 2006 THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SAILING ASSOCIATION
Peter and Chessie enjoy an idyllic paddle on a clear fall day.
LIVING THE DREAM
complete with a theme. Christmas in July was one
noontime meal that came complete with turkey and all
continued from page 1
the trimmings.
And what they want to do is be involved and in touch
with the boating community they serve. That’s where the
The Bee Weems is a simple extension of all this. Peter
Bee Weems comes into play. Their goal in owning this
and Cathie want to travel to visit chandleries and boaters
company yacht is to be able to reach out to customers
and meet them face-to-face. The Trogdons enjoy
and get feedback about what they like and don’t like,
feedback, suggestions and ideas. Keeping this business
what they need and don’t need. They want to know the
personal, rather than corporate, is just one reason Peter
people who buy their products; they’re a couple who
Trogdon has made a conscious decision to not only keep
enjoy having a personal understanding and friendship
the company a modest size, but to not go “high tech.”
with the many people they’ve met through business over
He’s sticking with traditional navigation tools, clocks,
the years. They will also use this yacht to test, showcase
barometers and lamps versus GPS and electronics.
and demonstrate new products as well as train staff and
dealers.
The Trogdon’s story is about being successful by doing
what you like, treating others the way you like to be
Following this dream began just ten years ago when
treated, and being true to high ideals - a nice change
Cathie and Peter gave up their Pacific Northwest lifestyle
from the way many businesses operate today. Peter’s also
to take over ownership of Weems and Plath in Annapolis,
been very influenced by Captain Weems, famous 20th
Maryland. They run their company with a belief system
century navigator/inventor who founded the company
that’s just as important to them as the profits they earn.
over 75 years ago. Captain Weems was a “larger than
Peter follows a business plan that focuses on his
life” man who set the kind of standards for himself and
personal values. Profit is combined with caring. The
his family that aren’t often followed today. Peter regularly
highest ethics are the standard for Peter who is also
asks himself, “What would Weems do?”
succeeding in doing what he really enjoys working in the
marine industry. “Family” is the mood behind the
Keeping history alive is also part of the new downeast
company’s doors and Peter goes out of his way to
yacht purchase, aptly titled Bee Weems, the name of
accommodate his employees (I have many examples).
Weems’ youngest son, a highly decorated Navy pilot who
Just ask them ... many have been with Weems & Plath
died doing what he loved, flying for the US Navy. He was
for more than ten years and some for 20 years. Common
passionate about navigation, as was his father.
courtesy and a comfortable friendliness are in the office
hallways. There’s even a monthly staff potluck luncheon, continued on page 16
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