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Back to Basics ~ “D of I” Does It Again
 Everybody’s done it at some time. There’s a little ant hill and you run your foot over it, covering up the hole and watch the chaos that ensues. Actually, it quickly becomes organized chaos, then amazingly the ants have uncovered their hole, rebuilt and continue. Not unlike much of us on the wet side of Washington losing power last month. Lots of chaos and running around, then things slowly (we’re not quite as organized as the ants) get back to normal. I have to admit it’s good to get a slap in the face once in a while and realize how fragile this electronic world is. Of course, as sailors, we understand living with the basics. Heat, food, a little light, a sound boat and we’re good. Throw in nice bottle of wine and we’re pretty much where we want to be. Speaking of organized chaos, last month we announced that we’d be hosting a meeting where all yacht club race committee chairpersons and the Coast Guard could get together and talk about the upcoming racing season. MST 1 Andrew Wall will present a slide show and discuss event permits, deadlines for submitting them to the Coast Guard, and traffic schemes on Puget Sound. As most clubs change chairpersons every year, this is a good time to get the information you need to make sure your event is in compliance with the CG. It’s really all about keeping everyone on the water safe. The meeting will be at 48° North, Monday, February 5 at 6:00 PM. We’re up the stairs behind the Shilshole West Marine. The Coast Guard will provide the information and, since it’s at 48° North, they’ll be a little beer and wine involved. In the meantime, if you’ve any questions on the racing regulations on Puget Sound, give Andrew Wall a call at 206.217.6045 and he’ll get you an answer. We’re pleased to announce the much anticipated Top 25 Racing keelboats for 2006. Harken is providing handsome trophies which we’ll hand out at CYC after the Blakely Rock Race. This year we’re considering awarding Brian Watkins a bucket to put permanently on his boat, Declaration of Independence, as he again takes the top spot. He’s definitely got this whole thing dialed in. Of course we all know it’s those folks that make the sails go up and down, and in and out, that make the boat go fast, so his crew certainly deserves our hardiest congratulations. Wishing you all heat, power and smooth sailing this new year. See you at the Boat Show. BTW – we’re already getting calls asking about the date of the Boaters Swap Meet. It will be Saturday, April 7, at Fisheries Supply/Crow’s Nest, across from Gasworks Park on Lake Union. |
