Private Ear NEWSLETTER OF PRIVATEER YACHT CLUB Lake Chickamauga Chattanooga, TN May 2012 www.privateeryachtclub.org Peter Snyder, Editor [email protected]

VIEW FROM THE HELM May 2012 Time flies when you’re busy at the club. Well, goes on. Come join in on the largest sail camp yet. Yes, a month has passed, and believe it or not my boat is this year we have potentially nine weeks of sail camp. launched! Yes, Whatta Ride is no longer on the hard, and my “view” is no longer myopically limited to the June also brings three days of racing each week, kayak- bottom of Whatta Ride’s hull. ing, and socials. The “Chicks On the Pond Sailing” are having a stake your date party! Sorry, dates and steaks Your club is buzzing with activity. We have had a hive party. Also, the club social will be a “Spanish Nights” of activities and more to come. This month saw a very themed affair. Margaritas? Cerveza? Holy Guacamole! successful Scowabunga, MC Scow regatta with 28 par- Don’t miss this one. See you there, bring your sombre- ticipants, some from as far as New Jersey. Also, a well ros. Maybe our Blue Grass players will play mariachi attended, get-to-know the MC Scow Friday night sail music. and burgers party. And, don’t forget the “Dock Party” which was a “jammin” good time avec “pickin and grin- nin’”. If you missed the story about the comforts of a kilt, just ask Rhonda Seeber to ribbon the details for you. It was truly a first place story. El Commodoro, Senor Chris June is here and so is Sail Camp 2012. Admiral/swash- buckler Steve George is heading up the camp this year. He is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks. Erica Cyrul and Hannah Matthews were seen scrubbing out the club boats in anticipation of all the little campers descending this summer. Eddie Gra- ham was toiling away, putting the finishing touches on the new rigging docks, which are even safer and more user friendly than ever before. Brian Holloway, lead instructor, was observed educating newbies in the club Flying Scots. Steve Sherman has readied the Club FJ’s with some needed repairs. Marji Cyrul is organizing the menu and helpers to serve the campers. And, the list photo by jim davis COMING EVENTS JUNE Check the PYC website CALENDAR for more info. 2-Jun-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 3-Jun-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 5-Jun-12 COPS 6:15 pm Tuesday 6-Jun-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 9-Jun-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 10-Jun-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 11-Jun-12 Board Meeting 7:15 pm Monday 13-Jun-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 16-Jun-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 16-Jun-12 Spanish Nights Paella Cookout (Door Prize!!) 6 pm Saturday 17-Jun-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 19-Jun-12 COPS 6:15 pm Tuesday 20-Jun-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 21-Jun-12 Land Committee Meeting 7 pm Thursday 23-Jun-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 23-Jun-12 COPS - Steak Out (COPS & Signif Others) 6 pm Saturday 24-Jun-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 27-Jun-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 30-Jun-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday JULY 1-July-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 3-July-12 COPS 6:15 pm Tuesday 4-July-12 July 4th Picnic & Cardboard Boat Races (Door Prize!!) 1 pm Wednesday 4-July-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 7-July-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 8-July-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 9-July-12 Board Meeting 7:15 pm Monday 11-July-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 14-July-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 15-July-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 17-July-12 COPS 6:15 pm Tuesday 18-July-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 19-July-12 Land Committee Meeting 7 pm Thursday 21-July-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 22-July-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday 25-July-12 PHRF Race 7 pm Wednesday 28-July-12 Keelboat Races 1 pm Saturday 29-July-12 Dinghy Races 2:00 pm Sunday PRIVATEER WELL REPRESENTED As would be logical, Bill and Bob decided to leave Friday to make AT GRITS & HAGGIS a nice leisurely trip to Seneca. Not so for the other two teams, who careened through the mountains on Saturday morning to arrive six by Linda Knudson Lind minutes before close of registration. However, the weather was beau- tiful, and all six competitors were set for a great day of racing. Un- The annual Flying Scot Grits and Haggis Regatta fortunately, no one explained this to the wind, which clearly had a was held May 19th and 20th at beautiful Keowee Lake near Seneca, mind of its own! South Carolina. Three teams made the scenic three and a half hour After blowing a signal for postponement prior to the start of the first journey through the North Georgia mountains to represent Privateer. race, due to lack of wind, the race committee changed the course and Lead by last year’s winners, Rob Fowler and Scott Cline, the two tried to start a race. After drifting through over half of the course, other teams consisted of veteran racers Bill Robertson and Bob Ives and first-time-ever-pairing, Tom Clark and Linda Lind. continued next page

 Race Committee ASSIGNMENTS Steve Sherman — Race Committee Chairman Date Time Day Fleet PRO Assistant JUNE 06/02/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Duvoisin, Pete Dugan, Patrick 06/03/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Dyer, Carl Eldridge, Teresa 06/05/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Easparam, M. Barnes, John 06/09/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Few, Jonathan Garverick, Tom 06/10/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies George, Steve Gill, Harrison 06/13/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Fowler, Rob Godwin, Tim 06/16/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Graham, Eddie Gregory, Martin 06/17/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Rathjen, John Halley, Mike 06/20/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Graves, Mike Keane, Coleman 06/23/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Healy, Paul Ives, Bob 06/24/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Holmquist, Ken Johns, Alan 06/27/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Ford, Ed Hitchings, Frank 06/30/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Cline, Scott King, Peter JULY 07/01/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Humphreys, Monty Koch, Fred 07/04/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Holloway, Brian Manning, Richard 07/07/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Humphreys, Bill Mashburn, James 07/08/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Irwin, Scott Mason, Brant 07/11/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Sherman, Steve Matthews, Chris 07/14/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Jenison, Walt McCroskey, Cindy 07/15/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Kuberg, Dieter McFarlan, Dan 07/18/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Kindervater, Kent Irwin, Bill 07/21/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Jennings, Bill Mies, Jonathan 07/22/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Lesley, Bryson Morgan, Steve 07/25/12 7:00 PM Wednesday PHRF Landers, Josh Frank Knight 07/28/12 1:00 PM Saturday Keel Boats Klein, Barry Polidoro, Van 07/29/12 2:00 PM Sunday Dinghies Lockemann, Fred Powell, Steve

NOTE: IF YOU DISCOVER A PROBLEM WITH ANY IN CASE YOU CANNOT DO YOUR RC DUTY, OF THE COMMITTEE OR CHASE BOATS, PLEASE BE SURE TO GET NOTIFY JOSH LANDERS ASAP (412-303-4219) A DEPENDABLE SUBSTITUTE.

Grits & Haggis - cont’ from page 2 complaints, decided it was not a terrible first day’s work. they called for abandonment and re-set the course yet again. After Two races occurred on Sunday morning, with slightly better wind, this, they valiantly pushed forward through four more races, but the and at the end of the event, Rob and Scott found themselves once wind made the day eventful. Sometimes coming out of the east, then again in first place, with Tom and Linda finishing fourth and Bill and changing totally to the west, there were a wide variety of challenges Bob finishing seventh. facing the competitors. Auto-tacking became the expectation of the day, and there were several races where spinnakers were flown on Sure, in the end, maybe the guys had more fun in the pool Saturday what was supposed to be the “up-wind” leg. Even when the wind night than they did on the race course, and maybe they decided hav- was supposedly behind the competitors, captains were heard shouting ing a girl along wasn’t soooo bad, as long as she was willing to cook a series of “Hoist the spinnaker,” “No, drop the spinnaker,” “No, hoist breakfast, but it was still a great weekend of camaraderie and beauti- the spinnaker,” which caused for a challenge to normal race course ful scenery, with a little sailing thrown in. strategy. Bottom line, the Grits and Haggis travelling trophy, the “coveted” By the end of day one, four races had technically been completed, wooden sheep Haggy, returned safely to Chattanooga, and once again, and no big surprise, Rob and Scott were in first place. Tom/Linda Privateer was well represented at a Flying Scot regatta. and Bill/Bob weren’t far behind, so all six, though voicing lots of

 photos by Jim Davis

It was the best of times and... After several years of across the lake getting into the stronger wind on that shore. great wind and 5 race series, we got in only two races. But, Pete Gregory, new to the MC but a great Thistle sailor, led at Privateer Yacht Club lived up to its legend of throwing great both marks. Regattas. MC’s from 8 different clubs participated. Boats On the last leg, Pete covered Rob forcing him into an area of came from as far away as Connecticut. no wind and then tacking off for the finish line. Amy Larkin and Barry Klein rounded the down wind mark almost simul- First race on Saturday had a nice, long weather leg. Spencer taneously. Sherman held back and outside and was able to cut Wiberley (MBW) led, followed by Pete Gregory (MBW), inside as Amy and Barry left the mark wide. Sherman tacked Chris Cyrul (PYC) and Steve Sherman (MBW). It was a immediately, going back up the shore he had just come from. home town meeting at that mark. One wonders where all the He also thought a pontoon boat on this side of the lake was the professionals came from. It was pretty much that order at the finish line. The finish line was actually clear across the lake. gates. But, it didn’t last long. The leaders went left. Others But, as luck would have it, the fleet went to a pocket of light followed but going right toward shore paid off big. air, and Sherman, who now was over standing the finish line, We almost got in a second race in on Saturday but “No Races rode in on a steady breeze for third place. Meanwhile Lucky will be started after……” ended that thought. The Race in- Rob picked up a shore breeze and rode over Pete. David Var- structions have been modified for 2013 eliminating that sen- nell sailed two very consistent races for fourth overall with tence. If there is wind and light, we sail. Amy coming in 5th. On Sunday morning the Gals in the kitchen fixed eggs, big Top Master award went to Kurt Stadele and the Grand Master homemade biscuits, grits, gravy, bacon, sausage, coffee and award went to Mike Neidig. Our NOR passes the age awards OJ - you’re typical Southern breakfast. (There was no more on to the next highest finisher who does not rank in the top five key lime pie. I checked.) The wind filled in on the club side trophy places. of the lake, and race number 2 was underway. The fleet pretty Starting with last place each sailor chose from a table one of well hit the up wind mark at the same time. Event though the 30 prizes donated my McLaughlin Boat works. As an added gates were across the lake, everyone elected to stay on the club surprise T shirts were later sent to each participant. shore in the wind as long as they could. Only Sherman headed (MBW): McLaughlin Boat Works ~ Steve Sherman

 your overall course length would be 4 x .75 NM, or 3 NM (rhumb line distance). If you assume that the downwind leg WE NEED LONGER RACES takes ¾ the time that the windward leg takes, then your overall The racing season is in full swing, and we are getting great turn race duration is approximately 15 + 11.25 + 15 + 11.25 (down- out on the race course for both Saturday, Sunday and Wednes- wind finish) or 52 ½ minute race! That’s just about perfect in day opportunities. We’re also getting our race committees to my book. Of course that’s nice to know the distance between show up, which is a big improvement from recent years. All the start line and first mark, but how do you gauge that on the of us who race appreciate this, which is why it is difficult to water? A good GPS is very helpful, and maybe someday we’ll direct any criticism at the RC. So please don’t view this as a have one installed on our pontoon boat. A good chart plotter complaint, but more as customer feedback. would let you get really accurate. But, there is a simpler way to do this. How fast does the pontoon boat go? If you know Twenty five years ago, the racing was somewhat different at that, then you can derive how long it would take to set a ¾ PYC. Saturday keelboat racing was all based on channel mark- mile leg. A little test drive has revealed that the committee boat ers, and the Snipe and Highlander classes sailed Olympic or will go 14.2 MPH flat out, and 10.2 at “cruise” speed. Cruise triangle courses. For the most part, a race would be at least 45 speed for this test was achieved by advancing the throttle so minutes long, but many times, especially in the PHRF class, that the middle of the white stripe on the inside face of the it would be an hour and a half. There are probably a handful throttle lever aligned with the rounded knuckle on the throttle of old “PYC Sailing Instruction” handouts that reference time control mount. limits, 30 minutes to the windward mark, 1-1/2 hours for the first boat to finish. These rules were in place for a good reason, To place a buoy ¾ of a nautical mile to windward, simply set and they got enforced every once in a while. We also threw in your starting pin, point the bow of the boat into the wind, and a good number of “long distance races” to Patton Island. These drive for 5 minutes at “cruise” speed. That will put you in the races were challenging and allowed a crew time and opportu- ballpark. If you want to set a modified windward leeward, set nity to play the wind, work on sail trim and tactics and work your starting pin, and drive into the wind for 2-1/2 minutes. together as a team. Sometimes they were an endurance contest Set the leeward mark or gate 2-1/2 minutes the other side of as well. Drifting around Selcer light with 3 miles to go to the the starting area. If you are using channel markers, just try and finish can be tough, but that’s part of racing. get a proper overall length of course by adding the distance be- tween the buoys. Setting a course of approximately 3 nautical Lately however, it seems as if we’ve decided to shorten all of miles is a good start to getting a 50 minute race. our race courses down to a bare minimum time and distance. A few weeks ago I participated in a race that was only 14 min- Now I know that not everyone agrees with the idea of lon- utes long. I can see Opti prams doing this, but 20 to 30 foot ger courses, but a short course favors the boats that get great keelboats? There have been many races over the last couple starts, and favors smaller, higher PHRF handicap boats. A 26 of years that resembled this one, and I know that if you ask foot Impulse can’t stretch its legs enough to be competitive in the sailors who have been at this a while, they will almost al- a 20 minute race. So what if you set a race course designed ways disapprove of this kind of race. I’m not sure where this to be run in 50 minutes, and the wind dies half way through comes from. Do race committees just want to see how many the race? You have two great options. First, shorten course at “sprints” they can get in on a given day? Are they in a hurry to a turning mark. Second, abandon the race entirely. I would get through with RC duty and go back to the air conditioning? rather see a fair race attempted and cancelled, than score a race Whatever the reason, it is degrading the quality of the racing to that’s a joke. If you are a racer and feel as I do, don’t hesitate to the point that something needs to be said. So I’ll say it, respect- politely and respectfully suggest that the RC should lengthen fully. Please make the races longer! How long? A good race the course if you feel it is too short. The races are being run course for dinghies should take 45 minutes. It should take 15 for the racers aren’t they? minutes, at least, to get to a weather mark. For keelboats, you ~ Rob Fowler could use the same guideline as a minimum, but an hour long race is better in my mind. NEW BOATING STORE How do you judge the proper distance between marks for the desired duration? Of course it depends on wind speed and the IN TOWN average speed of your fleet around the course. We can make some reasonable assumptions however, and derive an overall Boaters Plus has opened at 5950 Shallowford Rd. length for a particular leg. For brevity’s sake I won’t go through That’s across the road from the old Red Food Store the math, but it turns out that if you assume an average boat warehouses. They’ve got a limited line of marine speed of 5 knots, the windward mark should be approximately supplies in the store but have a web site and say they .75 nautical miles to windward of the start line, if you desire a 15 minute windward leg. Obviously the distance would be can get anything you order in a couple of days with shortened if you are sailing in lighter breeze, or racing slower no shipping charges. Phone; 591-6460, ext. 801 boats. From my experience, a ¾ mile windward leg is usually close to being right. So on a two lap windward-leeward course, http://www.BoatersPlus.com

 photos by barbara snyder

 The 15th Annual Northern Gulf Coast Cruise, sponsored by Catalina 22 Fleet 77 at Ft. Walton Yacht Club noise makers and tall tales of their single escapades. Tuesday and the Catalina 22 National Association May 11-18, 2012, morning brought a great show by the Navy’s Blue Angels as may well have been the best NGCC ever! Twenty two boats they practiced their routines right over and around our masts. participated. Seven from our own Chattanooga Fleet 95 trailered down to Florida. These included Kent & Jane Over- Next stop on Tuesday was at Bear Point Marina in Alabama. beck on Leap Frog, Josh & Katie Landers on Per Diem, Some of the fleet stopped just short of Bear Point at Pirates’ Bob & Kathy Bissel on their unnamed boat, Scott and Mari- Cove, where Jimmy Buffet wrote “Cheeseburger in Paradise.” lyn Irwin on Galapagos, Jonathan and Alison Few on Fire We were provided with some outstanding “Cajun” entertain- Fly, Dieter & Evelyn Kuberg on Wind Chaser and Pete & ment by the Captain and crew of St. Benedict from Lake Pon- Barbara Snyder on Windabout. chartrain. Skipper Louis thought he could ease over a sand bar and glide into the beaching area at Pirates’ Cove, but clearance Other boats included a mom and dad with two daughters from was not there. He did make it off the bar with assistance from Texas on one C-22 and a Florida boat with a mom and dad Josh and Jonathan, who swam out to help amidst the cheers with four small dogs that managed to get sea sick one day... and whistles of those enjoying cheeseburgers on the deck. After a windy start that had some of the wives rockin’ too Hardly a dull moment! much in Choctawatchee Bay, thunderstorms the first night, and Wednesday, as we sailed back to the Pensacola Beach area, a nearby waterspout on Mother’s Day at Spectre Island in the eight boats took the outside route in the Gulf for 15 miles. Intracoastal Waterway, the wind settled out and we all had a That turned out to be very calm and they had to motor most of great time. During that first 24 hours two boats also sustained the way. The Pensacola Beach Yacht Club fed us supper with fires. Our alcohol stove ignited in the stiff breeze, and another a most generous pot luck buffet. boat had an electrical fire enroute. Thankfully, a wet towel took care of the stove fire and the electrical was discovered Thursday we sailed back to Spectre Island for our final camp- and extinguished before any serious damage occurred. fire. Along the way, we sailed alongside a fleet of small, most- ly handmade, sailboats that were doing a 120 mile trek along The next stop on Sunday was the Pensacola Beach Yacht the Intracoastal Waterway. They anchored beside us at Spectre Club, except for a few who sailed to the downtown Pensacola for the night. This was the best sailing day of the week. Palafox Pier. Then on Monday we all sailed to the Pensacola pass, where a few left the Intracoastal to briefly experience Friday seemed like a race at dawn returning to the Ft. Walton sailing in the Gulf. We anchored at Big Lagoon by Ft. McRee Yacht Club where we pulled out boats and relaxed before the on Perdido Key where the sand dunes and blue green waters final cruise dinner at the Club. Some skipped dinner and drove are wonders to behold. What a beautiful anchorage – this writ- home that evening, while others drove home on Saturday. It er’s favorite place! Here we also held a surprise Cajun style was a fun cruise, celebrated by most as possibly the best in its celebration called a “Charivari” for Robert and Bonnie Do- 15 year history. ~ Pete Snyder nahoo, who had just married about two weeks before - lots of See more pictures, click here: 2012 NGCC

 photos by barbara snyder

The annual PYC Dock Party hosted by the COPS Steve George, with his great foresight, provided an amplifier (Chicks on the Pond Sailing) was a great success. The ladies and microphone which set the stage for all present to hear. (COPS) and club members opened their boats to host friends And Rhonda, upon the request from the COPS group kept the and members on B Dock. Joanie Koch set the stage with the gang going with her songs, “The Cat Came Back”, “Scotsman layout of a wonderful assortment of finger foods, snacks and with the Blue Ribbon”, and “When I First Came to this Land”. desserts brought by club members to share. Plates were filled Steve George led the chorus with some gospel and patriotic and carried to picnic tables, committee boats and the many songs. When the sun set so low the music could not be read, boats of hosting sailors. Some of the boats displayed table everyone pitched in to return boats to their docks, return the flowers, table cloths, and provided a great place to share sto- tables and chairs to the club house, wash dishes, and pick up ries, while enjoying the fabulous assortment of foods. messes. It was wonderful to see how quickly things were put back to “normal” with all the assistance of members. Barbara Snyder won first prize for best presentation ofa dessert. Her creativity was only outweighed by her ability to But, the party wasn’t over. Jennifer Koch had prepared a present a delicious display of little yellow chicks set on blue great bonfire for smores. Hershey Bars were brought out with gelatin surrounded by a rocky shoreline. Thanks Barbara for marshmallows and graham crackers, and soon a crowd gath- the perfect display of Chicks on the Pond, Sailing! ered at the fire to share the wonderful taste of melted marsh- mallows squashed between chocolate and graham crackers. It After filling our bellies and visiting the many open cockpits was a fine end to a wonderful event. of our friends, a special treat was in the works. The talent and commitment at PYC never ceases to amaze me. Eddie Special thanks to Steve George, David Varnell, Eddie Gra- Graham, David Varnell, Steve George and Rhonda Seeber ham and Rhonda Seeber who brought so much life to the par- put their musical talents together, tuned their guitars and began ty with their voices, talents and guitars. And, thanks to those singing. Friends and members joined in for some great folk who opened their boats to host club members and friends. It songs and old time favorites. Laughter rose from the group was a great time with good food and some of the best enter- when Eddie and David sang some of their favorite story songs. tainment in Chattanooga! ~ Sandy Vanden Branden

 Spring British Virgin Islands Sailing Trip March 31-April 7 2012 by Mary Cable It was spring break and the week before Easter, making the Tom and Mary took the kayak early in the morning and sur- BVI a popular destination. The Moorings base, on Tortola, prised a stingray feeding in the shallow grasses. After filling was a small metropolis of boats of various sizes and types of our fuel and water tanks, we sailed 15 miles to Anegada, the propulsion and every dock space was occupied as far as the northernmost island in the BVI. Anegada is a sparsely popu- eye could see. Rob and Patricia Fowler, our captains, arrived lated island rising only 28 feet above sea level, made of coral on Serenity 3, our 51.5 foot Beneteau and based on their past and limestone unlike the other islands of the BVI which are charters suggested a route to sail through the BVI stopping at volcanic in origin and beautifully mountainous. The sea was the islands on everyone’s most wanted list. Everyone included very calm. Rob said that it was calmer than it had been in many the Fowlers, Bill and Sherrie Jennings, Harding Aslinger, San- years. Sailing into the cove at Andgada is one of the trickiest dy Vanden Branden, Tom and Mary Cable. because of the shallow reef surrounding the island. Sunday April 1, 2012 Sandy remembered Lobster grilled on the beach of Anegada from her previous visit and as soon as we were ashore we saw After an entertaining boat briefing at 6:45 am, we were sailing fishermen on the dock preparing fresh lobster for that night’s east through the Sir Francis Drake Channel with full sails, a meal. We took a taxi to Loblolly Beach on the far side of the good wind and the whole day ahead of us. A large regatta was island that has great snorkeling. In the open air taxi we rode underway and the channel filled with multicolored spinnakers through an arid landscape along dirt roads with wandering was an impressive sight. Our first mooring was in Trellis Bay donkeys and a group of cows lounging on a mound of sand. at the eastern end of Tortola on Beef Island. The beach was ex- Rob and Sandy had a brief whale sighting just beyond the shal- otic with windswept, tropical colored art studios, metal sculp- low reef where we went snorkeling. We returned to a casual, tures mounted in the sand and surf, fire pits and a hammock in but elegant meal of BBQ lobster, chicken, ribs and fish at pic- the shade. The hammock was occupied, and later that evening nic tables set on the sand. we would discover the occupant was not a stranger. Across the bay was our first overnight destination at Marina Cay, a Wednesday April 4,2012 tiny island reported by Patricia to have a restaurant with the The ocean looked like glass as we left Anegada to sail for Cane best Coconut Crusted Snapper in the BVI. An excellent meal Garden Bay on the north shore of Tortola. It was eerie to see it was expected, but a chance encounter with the occupant of the so calm. The winds picked up along the north shore of Tortola hammock we saw at Trellis Bay earlier that afternoon was not. caused by a northerly swell and it was a spectacular sail in Patrick and Jamie, friends from Rob’s many sailing trips on view of the lush mountains of Tortola. Cane Garden Bay was the boat “Islandia” were at the adjoining table. one of the most scenic places we stayed in spite of the large Monday April 2, 2012 waves causing restless sleeping conditions. Steep mountain- sides dotted with bright colored homes rose from the edge of Our first stop was the famous Baths at the southern tip of Vir- the sea enclosing the bay. A northerly swell continued through gin Gorda and even our early start did not beat the competition the night and made for an adventurous trip ashore for provi- for mooring balls. We explored the caves and swam before the sions, breakfast and local fresh coconut bread. cruise ship crowds arrived, then sailed with the wind north- east at a slow 4 knots and rounded Mosquito Island into Gorda Thursday April 5, 2012 Sound on the northeastern end of Virgin Gorda, home of the We left Cane Garden Bay heading northwest into the swells to- Bitter End Resort. Bill and Sherry had chartered several times ward Jost Van Dyke. We hiked to the Bubbly Pool, a naturally in Pensacola Bay and their knowledge and experience proved formed tidal pool on the northeast end of Jost Van Dyke, which a significant contribution. Everyone pitched in above and be- Rob had read about. With the large northern swells the pool low deck as our knowledge and talents allowed. became a frothy spa with each braking wave funneled through Tuesday April 3, 2012 a narrow opening into the pool. continued on page 10

 BVI - cont’ from page 9 Tringali in time for his next printing of YACHTING Customs and Courtesies. We anchored for the night at Great Harbor on the southern shore of Jost Van Dyke. A dolphin joined us on our way into Patricia Fowler, Treasurer: the harbor and we settled for a place next to an old and well- worn fishing boat named “Sea Jem.” We went ashore to Patricia submitted her monthly reports to the Board via e-mail. Foxy’s on the beach and planned for the group to have dinner Motion by Scott, to accept Dieter 2nd and passed. there, but the motor on our dinghy died. A kind Englishman named Andrew towed the dinghy and crew back to the boat. Vice Commodore Rob Fowler, Clubhouse and Grounds: We changed our dinner plans to a BBQ by Harding, who was our grilling expert aboard. Jim Davis is checking out the ice machine. Consensus is, it needs servicing. Friday April 6, 2012 Rob plans to make a presentation to the Board later this month This was our best and most challenging day of sailing, heading about Club House plans. If plans are approved, a presenta- southwest through the Narrows along the northeast coast of St. tion will be made to the membership at an upcoming monthly John to Norman Island, the location Robert Louis Stevenson social. based his book “Treasure Island” on. Our top speed of 10 knots was recorded with Sandy at the helm sailing through the Rear Commodore Eddie Graham, Dock Master: Narrows. To create more slips in the South Cove, Eddie has reassigned We moored in a bay called The Bight with many other boaters a number of dry slips to give our active dinghy sailors bet- celebrating the Easter weekend. On board that night, Harding ter access to the boat hoist and open up spaces for transient grilled lamb chops to perfection and just as the sun dipped trailer parking during our invitational regattas and anticipated below the western horizon in the direction of the stern, a full requests for more dry sailed boat storage. Ed Ford and Fred moon was rising in the east over the bow, a pretty perfect final Koch spent the day with me moving trailers to their new evening. Sandi brought a collection of CD’s which we en- homes. The owners of the empty trailers and boats moved have joyed all week, the Beatles to the classics and the last evening been notified. we sang and danced to the oldies on deck. Both club Flying Scots are back in the water and Kent Kinder- Saturday April 7, 2012 vater is making new mooring type covers for them. The Hydro Hoist system for the Scots is working very well. We dawned rain gear for the only time all week on our short sail back to the Moorings base. It was a great week of sailing, We have replaced some of the worst warped decking on B a new experience for some of us, and a return to favorite places dock. Jim Davis has all the Lights and outlets on A and B dock for others. working. See some great photos from Bill Jennings of this cruise at: Walt Jenison and Bryson Lesley replaced one of the faucets on http://mrpou.smugmug.com/Vacation/BVI-sailing-April-2012 B dock. All are now working. The hoist for the South Cove lift is being changed out to one that is much faster. Kent Kindervater is making a weather cov- PYC BOARD MEETING er for it. — May 7, 2012 Rob and Eddie have talked again with our contractors about Minutes the Dinghy Lot Project. Because of minor changes in the de- Meeting called to order at 7:18 pm by Commodore Cyrul sign and the fact that the contractors have, in the interim, got- Members present: C. Cyrul S. Irwin ten busy, we now anticipate the project to be completed during P. Fowler R. Fowler the early part of June possibly impacting the first week or two E. Graham B. Mason of sail camp. We will be trying to have the work done sooner S. Sherman D. Kuberg if at all possible. Observing: Pete Snyder Gary Smith The WET SLIP ASSIGNMENT POLICY now includes (as it OFFICER REPORTS: continued on page 11 Scott Irwin, Secretary: Privateer Yacht Club Ship’s Store available through Coral Reef Sailing Motion to accept minutes from last month made by Go to this website: Dieter 2nd by Rob, passed. http://coralreefsailing.net/privateer_yacht_club_ Check back later for member discounts during promotional sales on all types of apparel and gear, even outside the Scott reported PYC’s current information and elec- range of customized pieces. tronic copy of our burgee have been sent to Mr. BIG SALE GOING ON NOW!!!

10 May Board Meeting Minutes - cont’ from page 10 Check the website: www.privateeryachtclub.org/racing/race- had in the past) a boat size limit of 30 feet (LOA) and maxi- committee-schedule for your Race Committee Assignments mum beam width of 11 feet. schedule. Eddie is researching possible ways to address the wet slip der- Steve has purchased 2 new buoys. elict boat problem. Gary Smith had several ideas used at the Results are up for one Sunday’s dinghy racing. Remember Melbourne Yacht Club. This will be a Board topic in coming Sunday race time is now 2:00 pm. months. OLD BUSINESS: Eddie will price the security light on the B dock gangway and requested approval to have an electrician fix it if necessary. Front Gate: Nothing new to report. Dieter moved we approve $500 for project Scott 2nd and it passed. South Cove sink hole: A backhoe is being scheduled to dig around to determine extent of problem. Brant Mason, Membership: Rob Fowler made a motion to accept Herman Green’s dona- Up for Family Membership: Mary Bricker – Jenkins, John T tion of his Flying Scot, Dieter 2nd, it passed. Chatelain, Ben Edwards, Frank Hitchings. After examining Note: Scott Lee is selling his MC scow. (We now have a Clas- activity logs and getting a treasurer’s report, Dieter made a sified Section on the Website) motion to accept Mary Bricker-Jenkins and Ben and Liz Ed- wards for Family Membership, Scott 2nd and it passed. John NEW BUSINESS: and Frank will be contacted by Membership committee to see if they still have an interest in PYC. Dieter reported the Chattanooga Challenge had a great turnout. The Catalina 22 Fleet would like to put the $400 profit toward No new Associate Members this month. an electronic starting system for the committee boat. Adjustment of initiation fee for Nan Brooks was discussed and The Board discussed the idea of only emailing the Privateer rejected due to the length of time passed since Nan’s absence Newsletter. But, knowing the desires of some for a printed of Family Membership. copy they would be available for a fee which would be billed We are growing. 128 Family Members, 20 Associate Mem- quarterly with the regular billing. This will be discussed again bers, 16 Junior Members next month. ADJOURN: Motion to adjourn was made by Scott, seconded Josh Landers, Club Boats: by Steve – passed. Meeting adjourned 8:38 pm. Josh bolted the small committee boat’s door back on. Thanks Respectfully submitted to Chris for buying a new winch for the whaler trailer. Scott Irwin, Secretary Started buying gas again...yeah! Coached club members about which keys start which boats. CONTACT YOUR BOARD MEMBERS

Britta Kindervater, Social: Chris Cyrul, Commodore : 423-322-2330 [email protected] The Italian Social on 4/21 was well attended and the$300 door Dieter Kuberg, Past Commodore: 423-842-6714 prize was won by the Fowlers. [email protected] Rob Fowler, Vice Commodore, Bldg & Grounds 423-468-0149 Dock Party Social hosted by the COPS. Saturday, 5/26. Bring [email protected] a dish to share and a jam session of musicians is being coordi- Eddie Graham, Rear Commodore, Dockmaster 423-596-4960 nated. Door prize $50 [email protected] Spanish Nights Social Saturday June 16, this will be a paella Patricia Fowler, Treasurer 423-605-0612 cookout with wine and beer included $10 per person. [email protected] Scott Irwin, Secretary 423-802-5277 COPS Steak Out Saturday 6/23, this is for COPS and spouses- [email protected] significant others only. Steve Sherman, Racing Director 423-432-6501 No requests for weekend club house reservations. [email protected] Brant Mason, Membership Director: 423-298-3433 Please check the website: www.privateeryachtclub.org for ad- [email protected] ditional date and time information and to register for Socials Britta Kindervater, Social Director: 423-596-1745 in the future. [email protected] Josh Landers, Club Boat Director: 412-303-4219 Steve Sherman, Racing: [email protected]

11 Privateer Yacht Club was organized on July 25, 1940, in order to promote sailing in the Chickamauga Lake area and particularly in Chattanooga; to teach its members to talk the language of the sea and build up a marine tradition for “The Great Lakes of The South”; to help promote water safety and a code of ethics for the waterways; to form a social and activity nucleus for people in the area interested in sailing; and to develop an active relationship with other sailing and boating organizations to promote racing and other boating activities. Ike knows how to enjoy a dock party! - See story on page 8 - photo by Ivy Scowabunga starting line up, below. - See story on page 4 - photos by Jim Davis.

Private Ear NEWSLETTER www.privateeryachtclub.org Privateer Yacht Club 4713 Privateer Road P.O. Box 1041 Hixson, TN 37343

May 2012