Category: Uncategorized

The SWYC is beginning to wake from its winter doldrums as planning for the coming on-water season picks up speed.  This past week, Barb and I have participated in a Cruisers planning meeting -yay, Canada here we come.  And, the Kayaking group gathered at our house to discuss future paddles.  While I am not a kayaker, I have to admit that plans for a night time bioluminescent paddle sounded pretty special!

Our Laser folks are off to an exciting start. Carol Dean and Zak Malbin have enthusiastically taken the reins from longtime organizer Michael Scott.  Thank you Michael for your years of diligent service and  enthusiasm for all things sail.  We look forward to seeing you enjoying more time on the water.

The YSA is in full planning mode for the upcoming season of sailing lessons.  Your Commodore has even been persuaded by the tireless effort of his spouse Barb, aka Bilgerat, to learn to sail with the Adult Sailing Class.  It is a little embarrassing to admit to only having been on a sail boat, of any kind, once in my life.  I guess it’s time to see and experience the thrill of wind driven boats as opposed to motorized boats.  I am sure compromising pictures will be taken and shown in future editions of the newsletter, especially if the safety boat has to tow us to shore because we can’t master how to properly set the sail.

This past month, we were disappointed to learn that both John Gibson and Myra Gustafson tendered their resignation from the board.  John, after several years of service, felt other priorities calling and needing his attention.  Thank you, John for your board contributions of the past several years.  Also, we were looking forward to hearing a fresh perspective from Myra in our board discussions but the particulars of her work schedule made it difficult to contribute.  Thank you Myra for giving it a chance.  Should circumstances change in the future we would gladly welcome both Myra and John back.

On announcement of these two vacancies, we were pleased to learn that Melody Carney has volunteered to join the SWYC Board.  Welcome Melody.  We look forward to your participation.  There still remains a need for one more person to join us as a Member at Large. Let me know if you have an interest.
And on that note, read on.  There is a LOT of good information to read in the pages to follow.

Calm seas, fair winds, and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Reciprocal Moorage

Some things to keep in mind about using Reciprocal Moorage at other Clubs:

• Always fly your SWYC burgee and carry your yacht club membership card. Check out the Tip of the Month at the end of this newsletter to learn how to print out your SWYC Membership Card.  This is a new feature.
• Be aware that some clubs require proof of insurance, and many Canadian clubs require a minimum of $2 million (CDN) liability insurance
• In Canada, fly a Canadian courtesy flag.
• Moorage is generally on a first come – first served basis.
• Most club websites include directions to the moorage and procedures for visiting boaters. Waggoner Cruising Guide and The Burgee Book are good guides. Best to check Yacht Destinations for club & Marina Information.
• Marinas.com (http://marinas.com) has aerial photographs of most of these marinas.
• Some clubs have restaurants and bars. Most are cashless and only accept credit cards.
• Do not have open fires or barbeques on the dock, keep pets on leash and don’t use generators and other equipment after hours.
• Remember that you are liable for any loss or damage incurred while a guest and that boats must not be left unattended overnight without permission.

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

John Knowlton

We welcome John Knowlton to the club.   Owner of both a Ranger Tug and an Alumaweld fishing boat, John enjoys cruising and fishing.  And it appears we will likely have an enthusiastic and deeply experienced participant at our Crab Fest in July.

After a long career in journalism at dailies along the West Coast, John transitioned to an academic career at the University of Oregon (his alma mater) and Green River College, where he headed the Journalism department before his recent retirement.

John was familiar with Whidbey Island from his many visits here over a couple of decades.  He finally moved to the island last spring.  He learned about the club from his friends Rick Paine and Lynnaea Lumbard.

Andy and Dawn Mark

Andy and Dawn Mark moved to the island one year ago.  Their primary interest is in kayaking.  However, they have many years of experience sailing (including racing) and cruising around Puget Sound.

Andrew grew up around boats on Chesapeake Bay, spending a lot of time crabbing.   He met Dawn at a sailing camp at which they both instructed.  Over the years, they have owned a Seaward and a Ranger Tug.

As they near retirement from their careers in public school administration, they look forward to many more years on the water.

Sean Cruz

Sean Cruz has decided to finally learn how to sail.   Something about living on an island will have that effect.  He, along with spouse Rachel, and son Zander, moved to South Whidbey in 2020.  Sean says that as he gains some experience sailing, he intends to introduce his family to the sport.  Ultimately, the goal is to buy a sailboat.   To that end, Sean is signing up for ASA courses offered up in Anacortes.    He also wants to try out Lasers.

Professionally, Sean is a computer programmer who works from home.  One of his non-marine passions is World War II, including participating in re-enactments.  Hopefully, he roots for the Allies.

Dr. Michael Sieracki holds a Ph.D in biological oceanography, an M.S. in Microbiology and a B. A. in biological sciences. He is the Director of the University of Maryland’s Horn Point Lab located on the banks of the Choptank River on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.  Prior to that, Dr. Sieracki was the lead program director for the biological oceanography program at the National Science Foundation and a senior research scientist at the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in Maine.

He will be speaking to us about his most recent research activity on board the sailing schooner Tara  for the Tara Oceans expedition.  The expedition was focused on determining the biodiversity of  plankton in the world’s oceans using the latest DNA sequencing methods. Please join us to learn what that means for those of us here on Whidbey Island.

Although Mike will be presenting from the East coast via Zoom, we encourage those of you on Whidbey to gather and socialize at the Greenbank Progressive Club as we usually do and view his Zoom presentation from there.

Zoom Link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88985241523?pwd=VFkrUXhZWExyWm5reWczNXFKRnBOdz09

Meeting ID: 889 8524 1523
Passcode: 478850

For future programs, see the event calendar:

SWYC Monthly Meetings. 

Ahoy Mates and Mateys! It’s time to get ready for our Opening Day celebration.

When: May 6 – 3:00 pm
Where: Honeymoon Bay Club
What: SWYC Activities + Chili Contest + Party!

This year we will celebrate Opening Day at the Honeymoon Bay Club. Come and see all the activities planned for this year’s SWYC interest groups, including representatives from Kayaking, Cruising, Racing, Youth Sailing, and Windward Women. We will also have a Chili Contest, where each activity group will present delicious chili for you to taste. Vote for your favorite chili and the winners get a prize. You are welcome to come in your favorite pirate costume. Arrrg!

This event is for sailors and landlubbers, so everyone is welcome. Look forward to an afternoon of eating & drinking & visiting with friends as well as discovering what activities are being planned for this year.

SWYC KAYAKING IN 2023

Spring is here. Well, almost. And that means kayaking with the SWYC. We have started the year with a social and planning meeting where 18 met in person and 2 via Zoom. Out of that meeting came volunteers ready to plan and lead additional paddles.

For the full list of planned 2023 paddles (so far, with more to come), click here and scroll down the page:

2023 Paddle Schedule 

Three NEW paddles just added to the list are:

• Saturday, May 20, 9 am. Saratoga Beach community boat launch. Saratoga Beach to Fox Spit or to Bells Beach. Paddle Leaders: Dorothy and Bob Kulwin
• Tuesday, August 15, 9:00 am. Glenwood Launch. Glendale to Kelp Beds at Possession Point. Leaders: Gayle Austin and Bob Kuehn
• Saturday, September 9, 7:30 pm. Sunset at Cultus Bay – Bioluminescent paddle. Paddle leaders: Dave Davis and Barb Hardman

And don’t forget our Baker Lake Swift Creek Campground trip  June 25 – June 27 and our West Beach Resort Orcas Island trip September 21 – September 24.  Both of these events are open to All SWYC members, as well as our kayakers.  Contact Katy Shaner or Barb Grimlund, bilgerat@gmail.com, for more information and to RSVP.

There’s such a variety of ways for club members to enjoy sailing merriment on our Whidbey Island (and beyond) waters!  And yes, racing too. Read on for ways to enjoy the experience of the waters and the wind.

Laser Fleet

Let’s introduce Zak Malbin and Carol Dean who will be leading the SWYC Laser fleet for 2023 as our esteemed colleague Mike Scott takes some time off to travel the world.

The Laser fleet’s goals include bringing in new interested sailors, and continue to have fun!

Zak and Carol are starting the year off with a Laser Sailing Clinic the last two Sundays in April, April 16th and 23rd. The first day will be at Lone Lake.  If you’re a sailor interested in trying out a Laser, or just want to get warmed up for the season,  this is the place to be.  Rigging, tacking and even an introduction to racing will be on the agenda.  For a more detailed description of the Laser clinics, click here:

Laser Clinic

Pelican Fleet

Also on Sunday, April 16th, there will be a fun Club sponsored Pelican Sail/Clinic at Lone Lake.

This will be a chance for the more experienced Pelican sailors to share tips on rigging and sailing these fun little boats. If there is interest, we will conduct some racing oriented low stress practice.  All Pelican owners are encouraged to bring their boats and regular crews. Prospective crew should also attend, get some under way time and meet skippers who may need crew. Dress according to the weather and wear boots for shallow wading.

Since the Club Laser fleet will be at Lone Lake too, it’s a great time for additional sailor camaraderie.  Reach out to Bill Brown for questions.

The Gotta Regatta

And of course, the Gotta Regatta, on Saturday, May 13 will be another good time for fun on the water.  Mark your calendars!

Laser Racing

The SWYC Laser fleet – who we are:  We are the dinghy sailors racing on Holmes Harbor on Tuesday afternoons in Lasers.  This season, racing will start at 4:30 pm.  We usually meet by 3:30 at the boat launch at Freeland Park.  We encourage anyone with any small sailboat to come join us!  The full race calendar is up to date on the SWYC website calendar.  Series I races start May 16.  Reach out to Zak Malbin or Carol Dean for more information and to be included in the laser sailing roster.

Check out the schedule here:  Laser racing 

Pelican Racing

Ahoy Pelican Sailors (and the Pelican Curious)

There will be Pelican Club activities this year based on the level of interest and likely participation. To start with, Pelican Viking Fleet 3 has already begun their Winter/Spring racing season, and SWYC Pelicaneers are welcome and encouraged to join their Fleet and their races. Here is a schedule of their Winter/Spring events:

Races:
2/25 Lake Campbell (Potluck at Boat Launch)
3/11 Big Lake (Potluck at Steve Ruhl’s Lakeside)
3/25 Lake Goodwin (Potluck at Boat Launch)
4/22 Lake Ballinger (Potluck at Boat Launch)
5/6 Angle Lake (Potluck at Boat Launch)
5/20 Fleet Championships – Location TBD

Skipper’s Meeting at noon and 1 pm start (may be adjusted after day light savings switch)

Cruising: Pelican Beach Mother’s Day Cruise 5/14 – 19. Depart at 11am.

We are working on a SWYC Pelican summer racing series schedule, and suggestions for that plus any questions on the above should be sent to Bill Brown.

Starke and Randy at Lake Campbell 2/25/23

SWYC Cruising Activities for 2023

Thinking of learning to sail?  Or do you know of kids or grandkids interested in the sailing classes offered by SWYC in July?

Our Youth Sailing Association has confirmed dates for our adult sailing classes and for youth sailing classes for the summer of 2023.  Enrollment is through the South Whidbey Parks and Rec Department. Registration won’t be available until mid-April.  In the meantime, mark your calendars, talk to the kids and start dreaming of summer sailing.

The dates of the 2023 classes can be found here:

Summer Sailing Classes

Also, our YSA team will need SWYC members to help with a number of activities related to our classes.  Shuttling boats to class location, helping with on shore support and just coming out to see how fun these classes are for our kids and adults students.  Start thinking about how you might help out.  More information to come in the spring.

The Next Windward Women Gathering is in April

Windward, and “Wayward,” Women gather every other month, usually on the first Thursday of the month.  The next get together will be on Thursday, April 6.  Join Us!

Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

Sunday, April 2
4:00 pm

2350 Discovery Pl
Langley 98260

Commodore Pete, Bilgerat Barb and Membership Chair Mark Conover invite our newer members to come spend a Sunday Happy Hour with other new SWYC members and additional club members representing our club’s interest groups – sailing, cruising, kayaking, Windward Women and events.  Get to know others in a relaxed setting.  Learn about each of the interest groups – what they are, who does what, when they gather and have events, where to get club information & swag, and how to engage.  There’s plenty of time for questions.  These are always fun and informative gatherings.

All members who have joined since Jan, 2022 and who have not attended one of these gatherings are welcome and encouraged to attend.  Watch for an invitation or just RSVP now.

Light appetizers and beverages will be provided.

RSVP to Barb – bilgerat@swyachtclub.org

We hope to see you there!

If you can’t make this one, future New Member Socials/Orientation are scheduled for:
Sunday, June 11, 4:00 PM
Sunday, October 8, 4:00 PM

Save the Dates!

You might want to get these on your 2023 calendar.  Please let Mark Conover, membership@swyachtclub.org,  know if you will volunteer to help with any of these events.  It’s a great way to meet other members – and you get to plan the party!

Boating Opening Day – Saturday, May 6

Gotta Regatta – Saturday, May 13

Crab Fest ’23 – Sunday, July 23

August Social – Wednesday, August 16

Commodore’s Ball – Saturday, November 11

SWYC Holiday Party – Wednesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:

https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Getting your boat ready for the boating season?  One of our own, Patty Maxfield, belongs to the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and is qualified to provide boat safety checks. These safety checks are for all types of boats – sail, power, paddle – and are recommended to have completed annually. Contact Patty via email if you are interested. She will try to group the member safety checks together for fun and convenience!

There is no charge for this service.

By Clay Canfield

Boaters: When was the last time you practiced recovering someone who had fallen overboard? Do you always wear your PFD when you are on deck and underway?
Kayakers: When was the last time you practiced a self-rescue?

Even though crew overboard and an onboard fire are by far the most feared emergencies, I have never seen any cruisers practice recovering a crew overboard! And I am amazed at the number of experienced boaters I observe who do not don their PFD every time they go up on deck while underway!

Greetings! As the Safety Officer for South Whidbey Yacht Club and the Youth Sailing Association, I’m starting  a monthly safety reminder to keep our club members safe on and around the water.  Although I am not a safety expert, I am a student of safety, have sailed for thirty years, skippered a Sea Scout Ship for ten years, and have sailed from Hawaii to Seattle and from Seattle to San Francisco. I was also a Marine Corps helicopter pilot. All of these experiences have instilled in me the need to include safety in all of my activities and a desire to share safety measures with fellow SWYC members.

Safety is like the layers of an onion. Layers such as situational awareness, boat maintenance, equipment preparation, education, and practice. The last layer, particularly in the Pacific Northwest, is how your body responds to cold water.

Puget Sound water temperature is usually about 47 – 50 degrees F. At this temperature, the first thing that occurs is “cold water shock”, which triggers hyperventilation. This can cause inhaling water and drowning. Sudden immersion in cold water reduces your ability to hold your breath, from about a minute to as low as ten seconds. Read more here:

Cold Water Safety

The second thing that occurs is physical incapacitation. Yes, you’re afloat in a PFD, but you can lose your ability to control your hands within 60 seconds, and arms, legs, and feet within ten minutes, and now you’re helpless.  I encourage everyone to review this article as you prepare for this year’s boating season.

I wish everyone a safe boating season.
Clay Canfield

Jibing the Spinnaker with no PFD.  Literally the worst time to be without a PFD.

Website Tip for March

Actually, there are TWO techy tips for our SWYC website for March…

How do I use the information on the Reciprocity page?

How do I find and print out my new SWYC Membership Card?  

Reciprocity page links:

To reserve our reciprocal slip on Orcas Island, click on this link:  https://www.supersaas.com/schedule/South_Whidbey_YachtClub/Reciprocal_Slip

This link is on our Reciprocity Page.  Select the date(s) on the calendar that you want to reserve the slip.  Two days maximum.  Click on that specific date on the calendar.  A ‘New Reservation’ box will pop up.  Complete the *’d blanks.  Click on ‘Create Reservation’.  The system will then ask you for your payment information via credit card.  This then goes through our payment systems just like reservations for our Commodore’s Ball or membership renewals.  All secured.  You will receive a confirmation.

To find reciprocal slips at other clubs, click on this link:
Yacht Destinations Website

On this site, you will see four tabs at the top of the page – Home, Destinations, Details and Contact.  The Destinations tab will give you a map view of all the reciprocal slip sites.  If you click on each pin, the details of that site will pop up.   On the Details tab, you will see an alphabetical listing of all the clubs.  Here you can click on the map icon, the Info icon, print it and ‘chat’ on a Forum.  Specific instructions on reserving any of these slips can be found in the “info” section.

It is highly recommended that you Create an Account on Yacht Destinations if you are considering using reciprocal slips at other clubs.
Questions?   Reach out to Vice Commodore Bruce Morris for clarification or help.  And to be a part of our Cruising Interest Group to participate in our club cruises.

Your SWYC Membership Card – NEW

Most of the reciprocal yacht clubs require both a burgee to be flown on your boat AND a club membership card.  You can now print out your own SWYC Membership Card right from our SWYC Website.  Thank you, Mark Conover, for setting this up!

On the SWYC website, click on the “Current Members” tab on the top banner.  If you are using your phone, click on “Menu” and then on “Current Members.”
Under “Current Members”, click on “Manage My Account.”

Here you will have to put in your username and password, as this is your personal private information.
Once you have successfully signed in, scroll down to the middle of the page where you will find three boxes – ‘Account’, ‘Profile’, ‘Sign Out.’

Click on the ‘Profile’ box.

On this Profile page, scroll down toward the bottom of the page.  You will see the ‘Membership Card.‘

Click on the “print” button and YES! You will have your personal Membership Card to carry with you.  You can laminate it, put it in a plastic sleeve or have it stored someplace where you can easily access it, if needed.

While you are in this site, scroll down to the Business Card and add a photo, if there isn’t one already or if you don’t like the one that is there.  The Business Card is what shows in our Membership Directory.  We like to see your smiling faces.

Questions on any of these tips, email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org.  That’s me, Barb.

New Membership Card

Copyright © 2023 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

Welcome to the start of our new year, which happens to be the 20^th Anniversary of our club’s founding in 2003.  For those of you who were able to attend our January general meeting, I hope you found the stroll down memory lane with Founding Member Pat Sasson and Bob Rodgers as fascinating as I did.  Thank you, Pat and Bob for pulling together the presentation.  And thank you to Derek & Pat Pritchard, Bill Brown, Russ & Janet Harvey, Deb Richardson and Jean Maesner for additional commentary.    I look forward to learning more in the coming months.

January and February appear to be a quiet time of the year for boaters.  We ventured out to Roche Harbor with some out-of-town guests a few weeks ago.  Not much was happening.  The marina was half full with most of the boats slumbering in their slips.

This isn’t to say that nothing is going on.  Some of the yachts at Roche had people working on them, just as members of the SWYC are busy getting their watercraft shipshape for the coming year.  SWYC interest groups are starting to gather to plan out activities for the coming season.  If you have not already responded to the volunteer interest survey, please take a moment to do so.  We have addressed the problems people had trying to access it earlier so this link should take you directly to it.  Here is the link:

  SWYC 2023 Volunteer Survey (google.com).

Lastly, thank you to all who have renewed their membership or who have let us know of their decision otherwise.  Whatever your decision is, please know I truly appreciate hearing from you about how we are doing delivering programs or offering activities that motivate you to participate and enjoy our club.

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,

Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Reciprocity

Your Board is very happy to announce that all SWYC members now have reciprocal privileges with other yacht clubs. Reciprocal privileges are a significant benefit for yacht club members because they not only provide very low-cost moorage, but also a wonderful opportunity to socialize with boaters from other yacht clubs.

We have rented a slip at at Brandt’s Landing Marina on north Orcas Island. That slip will be a SWYC outstation for use by our members and also as a reciprocal slip for other yacht clubs. In addition to the slip we have there it is a great location for kayakers.

We will soon have reciprocal information on our webpage, and in the next few months I will talk for a few minutes at each general meeting about access and use of reciprocity. In the meantime, feel free to spread the word to all your boating friends about this new SWYC benefit!

Eric and Kristina will be joining us to present what to do with your boat if you are expecting a tsunami or if you are at sea when a tsunami is coming — and other potential natural hazards related to boating.

Eric Brooks has been the Director of Emergency Management in Island County for 11 years. Prior to joining the County, he worked bomb disposal in the Navy for 22 years. Eric attended graduate school at the University of Washington. Eric has helped manage the county’s response to several emergencies and disasters including winter storms, landslides, a pandemic, and many more.

Kristi Kasper has been the Emergency Management Coordinator in Island County for 2 years. She received her bachelor’s degree from Campbell University. Kristi is working to keep the residents of Island County informed about the hazards we face through community outreach. Kristi enjoys living in Oak Harbor with her husband and 2 small children.

Reciprocity

Bruce Morris

Vice Commodore

Bruce will be explaining our new reciprocity club benefit.  What it means for our boating members, how it works and share some of the best slips in our Northwest Waters to consider while cruising.

Greenbank Progressive Club In-Person  or

Zoom:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87691603620?pwd=Yk4rbzBiWGkzYi8wUnBTRG9hZjRyZz09

Meeting ID: 876 9160 3620
Passcode: 456839

For future SWYC monthly programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC website.  2023 is being planned now.  Got ideas for a speaker?  Get them to Rear Commodore Dan Mooney.

SWYC Monthly Meetings. 

Summer Sailing Classes

Also, our YSA team will need SWYC members to help with a number of activities related to our classes.  Shuttling boats to class location, helping with on shore support and just coming out to see how fun these classes are for our kids and adults students.  Start thinking about how you might help out.  More information to come in the spring.

KAYAKING IN 2023
All SWYC kayakers unite! Welcome one and all to this coming year of kayaking with the club. We have gotten off to a good start with planned off island overnight trips as well as paddles from the shores of Whidbey. Plus, a planning session for kayakers interested in volunteering to organize and lead additional paddles.

KAYAKING PLANNING HAPPY HOUR
Friday, February 24, 5:00 Barb Grimlund’s home, 2350 Discovery Pl. Bring an appetizer or dessert and ideas of where you’d like to paddle this year and how you can help to lead one of our paddles.  Let Katy Shaner, or bilgerat@swyachtclub.org know if you can join us.

Reminder – 2023 Planned Kayaking Trips

WHIDBEY ISLAND PADDLES (So far. More to come.)

• Saturday, April 15, 10:00  – Paddle to Skagit Island. Paddle Leaders: Joel Shrut and Mary Knighton
• Friday, May 5, 4:45  – Robinson Beach on Mutiny Bay. Paddle followed by sunset appetizers and beverages on the beach.  Leader: Barb Grimlund
• Saturday, May 13, noonish – Ya Gotta Regatta.  Lone Lake.
• Thursday, August 24, 9:30 – Saratoga Beach over to Baby Island. Paddle Leaders: Patty Linehan and Pat Mathews
• August (Date TBT) Glendale to Kelp beds at Possession Point. Paddle Leaders: Gayle Austin and Bob Kuehn
• September (Date TBT) – Bush Point towards Lagoon point. Paddle Leader: Diane Lagerstedt

BAKER LAKE SWIFT CREEK CAMPGROUND
Sunday, June 25 – Tuesday, June 27. 3 days paddling, 2 nights camping. Shared dinners, activities and fun! Open for all SWYC members to participate.  Bring your small trailered or inflatable watercraft: power boats, sail boats, paddle boards, jet skis, canoes, floaties – in addition to or instead of kayaks. There are still a few sites available in the group campground with other SWYC members.  Contact Barb at bilgerat@swyachtclub.org

WEST BEACH RESORT ORCAS ISLAND
Thursday, September 21 – Sunday, September 24. Open for all SWYC members to participate.  Besides kayaking directly from West Beach Resort, there are multiple put-in areas both at Island marinas and on inland lakes. Orcas Island offers hiking, good restaurants and coffee/cafes, plus a range of shops selling locally made items.West Beach Resort has a variety of accommodations. If you are interested in taking this trip, the cabins do reserve quickly. Contact West Beach Resort directly westbeachresort.com Let Katy Shaner know you are taking this trip.

Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org. if you’d like to reserve a room in the Farmhouse.
All Kayaking Events can be found here:   SWYC Kayaking

~~~~~~~

Baker Lake

West Beach Resort – Orcas Island

The Farmhouse –

where our group gatherings take place.  3 bedrooms.  2 1/2 bath.  Two bedrooms are still available for a shared experience (and economical shared cost).  Let Katy Shaner know of your interest.

Cruisers Planning Session on Zoom
Monday, February 20
 7:00 pm

Join us to discuss cruise locations and develop a spring and summer cruising schedule.
Be prepared to give us your suggestions for:

• Possible destinations and length of cruises
• Preference for anchoring out or being on the dock
• Getting in touch with other members of the cruise group to invite them to join a “spur of the moment” weekend
• Volunteers to plan/coordinate each cruise

Join Zoom Meeting at 7:00 pm:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87659774375?pwd=K2ErN1FNTHF4NnJmOVBNd1Z2Y281UT09

Meeting ID: 876 5977 4375
Passcode: 756739

Windward, and ‘Wayward’, Women gather every other month, usually on the first Thursday of the month.  This is a change from the previous first Tuesday of each month.  The next get together is Thursday, April 6.   Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the Windward Women mailing list and to receive notice with details of each of our outings.

You might want to get these on your 2023 calendar.  Please let Mark Conover, membership@swyachtclub.org,  know if you will volunteer to help with any of these events.  It’s a great way to meet other members – and you get to plan the party!

Boating Opening Day  – Saturday, May 6

Gotta Regatta – Saturday, May 13

Crab Fest ’23  – Sunday, July 23

August Social – Wednesday, August 16

Commodore’s Ball – Saturday, November 11

SWYC Holiday Party – Wednesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for February

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip –How Do I Find Another Member’s Contact Information?

You want to call another member or you want to send another member some information.  How do you do that quickly without a paper directory?  

Once in the directory, the members’ ‘cards’ are listed alphabetically by the first name of the primary member.  OR you can key in the last name of the member you are seeking in the ‘Search’ box.

Once you’ve found the member you’re looking for, click on their card.  Voila. The information you are seeking is listed right there.  Easy peasy.  Most of us carry our phones around with us so you always have a member directory at your fingertips – as long as you have access to the internet.

Now, it’s possible that the person you are trying to reach hasn’t updated their membership information with current email, phone, address, partner name & information.  Or they’ve chosen not to have the information accessible to fellow members.  If you can’t find the information in the directory, next time you see your friend, encourage them to enter or update their information so that it is current and easier to find.

It’s a lot easier than carrying a phone book around.  😁

Feel free to reach me, Barb, @bilgerat@swyachtclub.org if you have questions or just want to practice this with a friend.

Copyright © 2023 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

Welcome to 2023, the 20^th anniversary of the founding of the SWYC.  We are going to make this year extra special, weaving club history into our programs and events beginning with a trip down memory lane at our January General Meeting.  Be sure to join us – in person or via our Zoom broadcast for a sure to be fascinating presentation.

December is a fun time for social clubs of all persuasions.  Yacht clubs being no different – well perhaps a wee bit different.  We could have taken the traditional route and all of us decorated our boats, dinghy’s, kayak’s, etc. in lights and fanciful displays to parade around Holmes Harbor.  Yes, we could have – BUT, that just doesn’t seem to fit our personalities.  So instead, we decorated ourselves and made merry at the Holiday Party.  Read on in the newsletter and go to the Facebook page to see more photos.  A good time was had by all.

In January, you will be receiving your annual request to renew your membership in the SWYC.  This year’s renewal process will have a slight twist.  After you have completed the renewal process, you will be invited to complete a volunteer opportunity form.  We are requesting that each person look through all of the events, programs and activities in need of member volunteers and select at least two that you would be willing to help out with in the coming months.

It is a wonderful way to meet others in the club.  And you do not need to have experience to volunteer.  Last summer we had a number of folks sign up to help catch crab for the July CrabFest.  We welcomed a number of members onto our boats who had no experience crabbing but who had the desire to learn.  Each activity/program/event leader will contact those who indicated a willingness to serve when it comes time to begin planning.

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you, (I am assured they will return)

Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Reciprocity Progress

Stay tuned for more information of this new club benefit. The details of the slip contract are still being arranged.

Once finalized, the full explanation will be on our SWYC website.

Vice Commodore Bruce Morris

	COMMODORE KEN SASSON… 2003
COMMODORE PETE GRIMLUND…. 2023   HOW DID THIS HAPPEN???

Join Us In Person at the Progressive Club or via Zoom Meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89805436776?pwd=aXlIZTZvMHpYNEo2ZmhaQmlWSGdsZz09

Meeting ID: 898 0543 6776
Passcode: 043852

For future SWYC monthly programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC website.  2023 is being planned now.  Got ideas for a speaker?  Get them to Rear Commodore Dan Mooney.

SWYC Monthly Meetings. 

During the first week of January, a membership renewal notice with be emailed to all membership accounts.   The message will include a link that will allow you to renew on line.  If you do not receive the email notice, be sure to check your Junk or Spam folder, as sometimes these emails might end up there.

As Commodore Pete mentioned in his message, there’s something new included in this year’s renewal reminder.  There will be an additional link to an online Volunteer Survey form that we ask each of you to complete. It’s easy and will only take a minute of your time.  Our goal is to encourage more members to actively participate in our various events and special interest groups (Cruising, Kayaking, Racing, Windward Women, Youth  & Adult Sailing Programs).

If you have any questions, please contact Mark Conover, our Membership Chair, at membership@swyachtclub.org.

2023 Kayaking with the SWYC

The kayakers have already started planning for day paddling trips for April – October 2023 and kayaking socials/speakers.  Reach out to Katy Shaner to be on the kayaking email list and to participate in the planning of these events.

Reminder – 2023 Planned Kayaking Trips

All Members Welcome to Join!

For those of you who are interested in participating in overnight trips with other members of the SWYC, the kayaking group has planned two trips for the 2023 summer season. All members of the club are welcome to join, not only the kayakers. 

Check out the information on our event calendar for both the Baker Lake Camping Trip June  25-27 and

the West Beach Resort – Orcas Island Trip

September 21-24.  Be sure to let Katy Shaner and Barb Grimlund know if you are planning to attend either or both trips.  We want to ensure you’re on the mailing list for new information and updates. Plus, if you’d like a spot in our group campsite at Baker Lake at the Swift Creek Campground, let Barb know.  There are still a few spots left.  There are a number of SWYC members already signed up!

For the Orcas Island Trip, there is still room in The Farmhouse for anyone who would like to share that cabin.  The cabins and other accommodations at West Beach reserve early so be sure to contact them directly if you want to reserve a cabin, glamping tent or camping spot.
Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org.

We still have room in our reserved group campsite for more camping parties.  Let Barb at bilgerat@swyachtclub.org know if you are planning on coming and especially if you want to save a spot in the group campsite with other SWYC campers.

If you and your party prefer a more private individual campsite, those reservations will open soon. They will fill quickly so plan ahead.
Individual Campsite Reservations

More details to come in the spring.  Let Barb know of your interest so that we will be sure to keep you on that mailing list.
Baker Lake Trip Information

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Baker Lake

West Beach Resort – Orcas Island

The Farmhouse –

where our group gatherings take place.  3 bedrooms.  2 1/2 bath.  Two bedrooms are still available for a shared experience (and economical shared cost).  Let Katy Shaner know of your interest.

Windward, and ‘Wayward’, Women gather every other month, usually on the first Thursday of the month.  This is a change from the previous first Tuesday of each month.  The next get together is Thursday, February 2.   Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the Windward Women mailing list and to receive notice with details of each of our outings.

You might want to get these on your 2023 calendar.  Please let Mark Conover, membership@swyachtclub.org,  know if you will volunteer to help with any of these events.  It’s a great way to meet other members – and you get to plan the party!

Boating Opening Day  – Saturday, May 6

Gotta Regatta – Being Planned, Stay Tuned

Crab Fest ’23  – Sunday, July 23

August Social – Wednesday, August 16

Commodore’s Ball – Saturday, November 11

SWYC Holiday Party – Wednesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for January

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip –What if your Zoom link doesn’t work

Since we haven’t had a monthly general meeting since October, we thought we would repeat this tip for those of you who may need to  Zoom in to our January meeting.

If you are Zooming into one of our monthly meetings and clicking on the link doesn’t work, try going directly to Zoom.us. Just enter Zoom.us into your browser frame.   From that screen, click on “Join” in the upper right hand corner.  On the “Join Meeting” screen, enter the Meeting ID # and Passcode.  The Meeting ID and Passcode are always included in the Monthly Meeting Reminder and can also be found in the event description on the SWYC Website Calendar of Events.  

Another action to try is to open Zoom.us in a different browser.  For example, if Safari is your default internet browser and you are having trouble opening the link,  try opening Zoom.us in Chrome, or Edge.  Then follow the instructions to enter the Meeting ID and Passcode.

You can also try to reach Commodore Pete or Bilgerat Barb at the meeting, but with all the activity in the room, it is often difficult to see those messages and be able to respond quickly.  We’ll do the best we can to be responsive. In the meantime, please try the tip above if the link isn’t working for you.

Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

Happy Holidays!  Wherever you may be, we hope you find time to relax and enjoy family and friends. I look forward to seeing you at the Holiday Party and in the new year.

I wish to congratulate and welcome to the SWYC board Bob Boehm – Secretary, Mark Conover – Membership and Myra Gustafson – Member at Large.  I look forward to working with them and to hearing their ideas for how we can improve the SWYC as we evolve to meet the ever-changing needs of our membership.

Check out the board member bios here:

Meet the Board of Directors

This month marks one year since I was elected Commodore.  I have learned so much over the past year with the help of SWYC veterans and newbies alike, without whose guidance and assistance, this past year would not have been a success.  Thanks again for all you do for the club.

After several years of having our activities restricted, the board was determined to make 2022 a festive, coming-out-of-our-pandemic-isolation year a year to remember.  Starting with May’s Opening Day, through all of the season’s sponsored events and culminating in a rockin’ Commodores Ball, I believe that goal was met.

We owe much to all of our volunteers – from those serving on your board to all of the program leaders and dedicated members who supported each program.  2022 would not have been a success without their creativity and hours spent making things happen.

I must call out one very special board member who has been a bright, guiding light for me personally.  She avoids the limelight but has been there in the background helping wherever she can.  You may know her as Bilgerat.  I know her as Barb, my spouse.  Thank you for all your support and for the energy you have invested in the SWYC this past year.

2023

Our challenge for 2023 is to build on 2022’s programming momentum to deliver even more meaningful, fun and educational events that appeal to both our younger members with families and those seasoned club veterans.

We celebrate SWYC’s 20^th anniversary in 2023. We hope to weave some of our history into 2023’s programs and events.   Look for announcements in the coming months about how you can learn more or become involved as we celebrate this occasion.

We encourage each of the interest group leaders (Cruising, Kayaking, Racing/Sailing, Windward Women) to develop a 2023 activities schedule that can be published on the SWYC website in the January/February timeframe for all to view and incorporate into their individual 2023 plans.  Watch for communications from your interest group leaders of upcoming planning get togethers.

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,

Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

A big Thank You to Kathy Rodgers and Patty Maxfield for their years of service to SWYC on the Board.

  NEW SWYC BENEFIT!

Your Board is very happy to announce that we are finalizing a plan to provide all SWYC members reciprocal privileges with other yacht clubs. There are many yacht clubs throughout the West Coast, including Canada, that allow members of reciprocal clubs access to their facilities for a limited time (usually one or two days). Some yacht clubs provide free reciprocal moorage, but most clubs charge a small nominal fee to cover the cost of moorage services such as power and wifi.  Reciprocal privileges are a significant benefit for yacht club members because they not only provide very low-cost moorage, but also a wonderful opportunity to socialize with boaters from other yacht clubs.

SWYC is finalizing the renting of a slip at a marina on north Orcas Island. That slip will be a SWYC outstation for use by our members and also as a reciprocal slip for members from other yacht clubs.  Stay tuned for all the details once this arrangement is confirmed.

We plan to have this reciprocal program online by January 2023. At that point we will have reciprocal information on our SWYC webpage. Early next year we will devote a general meeting program to providing full information on access and use of reciprocity. In the meantime, feel free to spread the word to all your boating friends about this new SWYC benefit!

Vice Commodore Bruce Morris

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Ann Bowen and Brian Strange

We recently moved from San Diego to Possession Beach Walk (San Diego got too crowded for us). Other than kayaks, we have virtually no boat driving experience but are looking forward to learning safe boating. We are currently shopping for a used 20’ sport/fish boat we can keep in our boat house and plan to acquire a small Ranger Tug for island hopping once we know what we are doing. We dabble in real estate and spend most of our time looking through binoculars at the abundance of sea traffic and marine life in the Puget Sound. Having had only perfect sunny days all our lives we are truly enjoying our new adventure living in the PNW.

For future SWYC monthly programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC website.  2023 is being planned now.  Got ideas for speakers?  Get them to Rear Commodore Dan Mooney.

https://swyachtclub.org/meetings/#!event-list

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Annual Holiday Party

Annual SWYC Holiday Party

Tuesday, December 13
(Note the change of day to Tuesday)
6:30 pm
Greenbank Progressive Club
In Person Only – No Zoom

*Pot Luck Dinner*
*Speaker – Kathy McLean and Gwendine Norton from Kids First- Island County*
*Holiday Jollies and Giggles*

Come join in the fun as we share the holiday spirit. Put on those holiday sweaters or other festive attire as we laugh and enjoy the evening.

This is a full dinner pot luck, not just the usual light sips ‘n dips, so please bring a heartier dish to share with 25-40+ fellow members.  Main dishes, sides, salads, and desserts are all welcome.  Plus any beverages for yourself or to share.
As always, remember to bring your own plates, glasses and utensils to cut down on waste.

For more information click on these links:
Holiday Party Information
Kids First Information

Jingle Jingle!! Happy Winter!!

The Commodore’s Ball was a night of friendship and frolicking as we were able to come together again in person to celebrate this SWYC tradition.  Congratulations to Perry Lovelace who was this year’s recipient of the Founders Award and Bob Shepard who received the McArthur Award.

Thank you to Lee McGuire, Jill Brown, Karen LaBuhn, Barb Grimlund and the Useless Bay Staff for the planning and preparation of this successful event!

2023 Planned Kayaking Trips

All Members Welcome to Join!

For those of you who are interested in participating in overnight trips with other members of the SWYC, the kayaking group has planned two trips for the 2023 summer season. All members of the club are welcome to join, not only the kayakers. 

Baker Lake

The first trip is a kayaking camping overnight to Baker Lake Sunday, June 25 – Tuesday, June 27. This trip is 3 days paddling, 2 nights camping in Swift Creek Campground on beautiful blue Baker Lake.  Or extend your stay on either side. Or just come when you can.   Shared dinners, activities and fun! Open for all SWYC members to participate.  Bring your small trailered or inflatable watercraft:  power boats, sail boats, paddle boards, jet skis, canoes, floaties – in addition to or instead of kayaks.

We still have room in our reserved group campsite for more camping parties.  Let Barb at bilgerat@swyachtclub.org know if you are planning on coming and especially if you want to save a spot in the group campsite with other SWYC campers.

If you and your party prefer a more private individual campsite, those reservations will open soon. They will fill quickly so plan ahead.
Individual Campsite Reservations

More details to come in the spring.  Let Barb know of your interest so that we will be sure to keep you on that mailing list.
Baker Lake Trip Information

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West Beach Resort – Orcas Island

The second of the trips is to West Beach Resort on Orcas Island, Thursday, September 21 – Sunday, September 24. This trip will be the third time that the SWYC has stayed at West Beach Resort. In past years, our kayakers were joined by club boaters and members who just wanted an outing to explore Orcas Island.

West Beach Resort has a variety of accommodations; waterfront cabins, water view cabins and studio cabins that are ‘garden view’. There are glamping tents and campsites available. Also, boat moorage is available for those who want to sleep on your boat or just have it there for day boating. Plus the possibility of sharing The Farmhouse with fellow SWYC members.

If you are interested in taking this trip, the cabins do reserve quickly. Contact West Beach Resort directly to see their availability westbeachresort.com Suggestion –  Read the WBR deposit and cancellation policy.

If you decide to take this trip, contact Katy Shaner or bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on that mailing list.   Activities and group dinners/happy hours are planned for everyone participating in the trip.

West Beach Resort Kayak Trip Information

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2023 Kayaking with the SWYC

In addition to these two overnight trips, the kayakers have already started planning for day paddling trips for April – October 2023 and kayaking socials/speakers.  Reach out to Katy Shaner to be on the kayaking email list and to participate in the planning of these events.

Windward, and ‘Wayward’, Women gather every other month, usually on the first Thursday of the month.  This is a change from the previous first Tuesday of each month.  The next get together is Thursday, February 2.   Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the Windward Women mailing list and to receive notice with details of each of our outings.

Holiday Party – TUESDAY, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for December

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip –Get ready for your club renewal notice!

January is SWYC renewal time!  In early January, you will be receiving your club renewal notice.  To ensure you receive the reminder notification and that you have no issues renewing your membership online, make sure your member profile is accurate.  That includes checking your email address, your phone number, home address and membership type (individual or family) for accuracy.  Click on this link to manage your account:

https://swyachtclub.org/sign-in-to-manage-my-account/#myaccount

Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

The Commodores Ball is the capstone event of the SWYC year where we celebrate the events of the season just completed, look forward to the next year and to learning who our club board members will be for the coming year.  Patty Maxfield, our board Secretary and Kathy Rodgers, our Membership lead are stepping down.  I would like to thank them for their years of service and support to the SWYC.  Their presence on the board will be greatly missed.

While 2023 is yet a few months away, planning for the coming season will begin in December and accelerate in the January/February time frame when each of the interest groups convene to discuss programming.  Whatever your passion, please step up to participate in the event planning for the interest group of your choosing.  Look for announcements in the January newsletter and on the SWYC website event calendar for these planning sessions.

Finally, I would like to thank all of the SWYC leads, past and present, and the many members who have volunteered throughout the year.  It’s made my first year as your Commodore such an enjoyable one. Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,

Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Jesse Wiegel

For those of you who attended October’s lively and entertaining presentation by Jesse Wiegel of the Northwest Maritime Center, there were several items Jesse mentioned he  would get back to us on.  He sent us several links for those who want to explore the Race to Alaska and the Northwest Maritime Center more:

The best link to find out when the film will be streaming would be:
https://r2akthemovie.com/

Our Facebook page is at:
https://www.facebook.com/racetoalaska

All of our past R2AK daily videos (amongst other things) can be found at:
https://www.youtube.com/c/NorthwestMaritimeAdventureRaces

and to sign up for the newsletter/updates:
https://r2ak.com/sign-up-for-the-daily-update/

_______________

For future SWYC monthly programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC website.  2023 is being planned now.  Got ideas for speakers?  Get them to Rear Commodore Dan Mooney.

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Annual Holiday Party

 

Save the Date! 

The Annual SWYC Holiday Party is Coming!

Tuesday, December 13
(Note the change of day to Tuesday)
6:30 pm
Greenbank Progressive Club

*Dinner*
*Speaker from a South Whidbey Not-for-Profit Group*
*Holiday Jollies and Giggles*

In-Person Only, No Zoom

More Information to Come!  Watch for it later in the month!

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Kayaking News

Kayaking with the SWYC

In late October, several of our kayakers gathered for an evening to celebrate the 2022 paddles and start talking about what our kayaking members would like to see happen in 2023 and even over the winter months.  A potluck dinner was shared as well as good cheer.

Watch for planning to start in earnest in January.  Maybe a return to West Beach Resort on Orcas Island next year in September?  Camping/kayaking trip to Baker Lake in June is confirmed.  Check the SWYC website event calendar for future meetings and updates.

Contact Katy Shaner if you are interested in being a part of the SWYC kayaking group by accessing her email address online through the SWYC membership list.

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Windward Women

 

In early October, the Windward Women’s outing was a hike of Ebey’s Landing followed by lunch at Ciao restaurant in Coupeville.  A beautiful sunny day by the water shared with good friends.  The activity was hosted by Patty Linehan and Pat Matthews.

Windward, and ‘Wayward’, Women gather every other month on the first Thursday of the month.  This is a change from the previous first Tuesday of each month.  The next get together is Thursday, December 1.  Email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the Windward Women mailing list and to receive notice with details of each of our outings.

Join Us!
https://swyachtclub.org/windward-women/#!event/2022/9/6/windward-women-meeting

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly.  Mark your calendars for October 6, December 1, 2022 and February 2, April 6, June , August 3 and October 5 in 2023.

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly, the first Tuesday of the month.  Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

I am penning this month’s message on our return trip from New England, where I had a few days to explore the region’s rich history of shipbuilding and sailing.  While most of the wooden vessels that plied Atlantic coastal waters have long since vanished, a few remain to remind us of our seafaring heritage.  It was amazing to see all of the different designs of sailing vessels from small skiffs to six-masted bulk carriers.

West Coast heritage is different, having come into its own close to the dawn of powered vessels.  That’s my experience – cruising and fishing in the Puget Sound and in the lakes of the upper Midwest.  For those of you who do not have a boat – remember – Boat Not Required – you can still participate in and learn the finer points of boating whether propelled by wind or engine.  With our cruising, racing, and sailing seasons coming to a close, we move into planning for the coming year.  This is your chance to get involved early on so that in 2023 you are ready to hit the water.

Not to be deterred by fall or even PNW winter weather, our Kayaking group are a hardy bunch and find opportunities all year round to go for a paddle, weather permitting.

Just a reminder of some important events coming in November.

Elections for the SWYC Board take place in October.  Thank you to Jill Brown, Bill Brown, Rick Paine, Tina Quinton, John Gibson and Dan Mooney for administering this annual process.  Look for the ballots in your email this month.

The new board will be announced at the Commodore’s Ball – a gala event on the 12th of November.  Thank you to Lee McGuire, Jill Brown, Karen Labuhn, and Barb Grimlund for organizing this special event.

Signing off from somewhere around the Great Lakes.

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Tom Sante
A former member of Meydenbauer Yacht Club, I sailed and raced in Bellingham Bay and Seatle for 2 years. I’ve owned several sail, ski, and power boats over the past 50 years. I love the water and currently own a Hobie Adventure Island Kayak. I was recommended by Dan Mooney, who I now share my kayak with. I retired from commercial real estate after 50 years at the end of 2019 and now do a little consulting work.

Gayle Austin & Bob Kuehn

We are primarily interested in kayaking with a group and getting to know other paddlers. We have both paddled for decades and were involved in the founding of WISK. We have especially enjoyed camping trips as a couple and with friends. However, over the years the group has shrunk due to moves and the deaths of elders. We miss those gatherings and hope for a new group of paddling friends.

Jim Soules

I moved to Langley in Summer ’21, and just bought an Orca 325, which is an 11-foot inflatable sailboat from the Netherlands. I crewed and sailed in ’80s and ’90s. I’m a small home developer (www.soulescompany.com). From 1996-2004, I worked in Langley, built Third Street Cottages, and am now building three small homes in Langley.  I’m interested in a community sailing center in Langley marina..

Jesse Wiegel

Race Marshal for the Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend, responsible for organizing the Race to Alaska (R2AK), SEVENTY48, and the small-boat cruise Salish 100 

Jesse will speak about the challenges and triumphs of putting together these well-known maritime events,and tell a few stories about this past year’s races. He will also share some information on the mission of the Northwest Maritime Center, and its efforts to encourage diverse on-water experiences.

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85172590208?pwd=Y52kVI0DWmqe3ymWvUsaVWW33Dc3XN.1

Meeting ID: 851 7259 0208
Passcode: 757832

There will not be a regular members’ meeting in November.  The Commodore’s Ball on November 12 takes the place of our monthly meeting.

For future programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC
https://swyachtclub.org/meetings/#!event-list

  2022 has been a full and active year for the SWYC as it transitioned from the restrictions placed on it by Covid to in-person meetings, gatherings, and activities that have been the foundation of the club. Being back to a form of new normal gives all of us a chance to reconnect, grow friendships, and together support the SWYC in so many ways.

Each year at the Commodore’s Ball, we honor an individual who we recognize has gone well beyond his/her contribution to the Club with time, energy, expertise, and encouragement.

To recognize this individual, we come to you for your nominations. Someone you feel should be recognized for outstanding work throughout the past year. Have you been volunteering next to someone who has impressed you with their dedication? In reading the monthly newsletter or attending a social or a meeting, did you get to know someone who contributes much to the club?

Please take a moment to send your nominations for this year’s Founders Award and a brief description of why you are nominating this person to Katy Shaner. Feel free to let her know if you have any questions. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Oct. 21st.

Click here to see more info about the award, including past recipients.

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SWYC Youth Sailing Association

2023 Sailing Classes 

We continue to receive inquiries about youth and adult sailing classes and lessons.  The 2022 schedule was completed in July.  Watch our SWYC website for notice of 2023 classes in mid-April next year.  Both the schedule and how to register for classes will be available at that time.

https://swyachtclub.org/learn-to-sail/

 

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Kayaking News

Kayaking with the SWYC

Fall is here. And that means a closing of the kayaking season with the SWYC. From April through September, kayakers Dave Davis, Barb Hardman, Dan Mooney, Barb Grimlund, and Katy Shaner volunteered to schedule paddles for each of those months. The kayakers paddled from Bowman Bay, Mueller Park, Robinson Beach, Sandy Hook, Glendale Beach, and Mutiny Bay.

At the beginning of the 2022 summer season, the club worked with Whidbey Island Kayaker to offer a safety refresher class. Many new SWYC members are interested in kayaking, and so our numbers grow. September had two paddles that were organized by the club. The first was Saturday, September 3, led by Katy Shaner, and was a 10:00 put-in at Mueller Park. Six kayakers met at the Park and chose to paddle to Coupeville passing by Captain Whidbey Inn, through the mussel beds, and on and around the historical Coupeville pier. The currents/tides were good, the wind gentle and the sun shone throughout the paddle.

Saturday, September 17, a hardy group of 9 paddlers, led by Dave Davis and Barb Hardman, put in at 10:30 to join the Cultus Bay to Scachet Head trip. Weather, currents, and great conversation were enjoyed by all. An after-paddle social brown bag lunch on Barb and Dave’s deck continued the conversation and anticipation of next year’s trips and many hoped spontaneous trips would continue throughout the year, weather permitting. It was a great day.

Contact Katy Shaner if you are interested in being a part of the SWYC kayaking group by accessing her email address online through the SWYC membership list.

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SWYC Mountain Lake Camping & Kayaking Baker Lake Save the 2023 Date!

Save the Dates! All Members Welcome!
Sunday, June 25 – Tuesday, June 27
3 days / 2 nights
Swift Creek Campground
Baker Lake

Camping, kayaking, boating, floaties, paddle boarding, jet skis or just playing on the beach.  All club membersand their families who enjoy water activities with more ‘rustic’ natural accommodations are welcome.   

More information to come in the spring of 2023, but you might want to save the dates now.  We have a group site reserved already.  The group site will accommodate  ~ 6 camping parties (tents, trailers). If you want to reserve an individual more-private campsites at Swift Creek Campground, individual sites will be available for reservation 6 months prior to our dates, so in late December.  They fill up quickly.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mbs/recarea/?recid=74986

Contact Barb Grimlund for more information or to indicate your interest in staying in the group campsite.

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Windward Women

The Next Windward Women Gathering is in October

Thursday, October 6
9:30 AM

Ebey’s Landing Lower Lot

Followed by Libations at Ciao in Coupeville
Hosted by Patty Linehan and Pat Matthews

The next Windward Women gathering will be Thursday, Oct 6 at 9:30 am. We will be meeting at Ebey’s Landing, the lower parking lot.   Some can hike and some can beach comb followed by a social enjoyed by all. We will go to Ciao in Coupeville for libations!

A Discovery Pass is needed for parking.  Bring your pass or a daily pass can be purchased on site.

Join Us!
https://swyachtclub.org/windward-women/#!event/2022/9/6/windward-women-meeting

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly.  Mark your calendars for October 6, December 1, 2022 and February 2, April 6, June , August 3 and October 5 in 2023.

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly, the first Tuesday of the month.  Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

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Upcoming Social Events

Save the Dates!

Commodore’s Ball– Saturday, November 12

Holiday Party – Tuesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

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Members’ Tips and Training

Website Tip for October

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip –Board Meeting Minutes

All Board of Directors meetings are open to all SYWC members. Log in to the Board Meeting Minutes page website to browse minutes from past meetings and keep up-to-date with what is going on.

If reading through piques your interest in joining the board, or you have questions about who we are or what we do, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org and we will be happy to help you.

If you have ANY questions about any of these, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org. (That’s me – Barb).  I’m happy to help you.  It’s important that you are able to access the information you need easily.

 

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*** If you know of any club member who is not receiving these newsletters or other club communications, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org.  We’ll help them get connected. ***

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Looking for SWYC clothing, hats or gifts? Click here: Land’s End Store

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Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

 

 

Sharing a beautiful sunset and accompanying moonrise with friends and family is the best time to savor the day’s highlights.

Similarly, as the last days of summer pass by, with club activities transitioning into fall, I reflect on how well the year has turned out.  I am thankful for all of the hard work early in the year by those group leaders laying the groundwork for cruises, kayaking, lessons and sailing adventures plus the monthly meetings and social events.  When you see these leaders, please let them know how much you have appreciated their efforts.  I certainly do.

In September we return to our monthly meetings held at the Progressive Club of Greenbank.  Rear Commodore Dan Mooney has pulled together another great program. Dan will be leading the September meeting while Barb and I travel to the East coast and Midwest to visit family and friends.  Barb might even get a paddle or two in while in Maine.

It has been especially gratifying to meet all of the new members who have joined the club over the last two years.  Twenty-one in 2021 plus another twenty this year.  With in-person meetings now happening along with our social events (Opening Day, Crabfest and the August Social at the Penn Cove Brewery) it feels like we are back to living the life we paused in 2020, renewing old friendships and making new ones.

As we transition into fall activities, please give some thought to how you might want to engage with the club in the coming year.  Planning for all of our spring and summer activities begins in earnest come January.  Consider stepping up to plan and lead an outing whether it’s a cruise, paddle, Windward Women meetup, lessons, racing or whatever.

Board Elections

Speaking of stepping up, Board Elections are just around the corner.  For the SWYC to remain fresh and vital, we need new faces to join the board as seasoned veterans make way for new leaders with fresh perspectives.  You do not need to be a seasoned member to serve nor have prior board experience.  Several of us joined the board within months of becoming members and just learned along the way.  Barb and I joined the SWYC after Crabfest 2019.  Barb joined the board that fall with me following shortly thereafter. So, whether you are a freshman club member or more senior, all talent is welcome,
Contact me, Commodore Pete Grimlund, commodore@swyachtclub.org, if you are interested in learning more.   If a member from our nominating committee contacts you, please listen and give it serious consideration.

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Glenn Jones

I guess I feel uncomfortable being too far away from salt water, and, excepting college, have never moved from Puget Sound, to which my Swedish ancestors came (Port Townsend) in  the year of statehood. They, like most, abandoned that city for Seattle in 1900 or so, and I lived there until it ceased to exist (for me) 30-odd years ago and came to Whidbey with the “second wave”, and with 5 children, now grown.  As there was empty space on my rural property, boats began to appear and settle in, and of course housing had to be built for them.  I can’t say I love sanding, epoxy, and certainly not varnish, but when they are running and I am in them, I am happy.  I understand they also come sans motors, (sans oars I fully understand), but the bits-of-cloth variety I have yet to learn to operate, and hope you all will teach me

Marilyn Jones

I like to kayak and would love to learn pelican and other sailing. Live at Holmes Harbor. Looking forward to meeting more of the group and doing some outings with you

Robert & Brooke Lindsley

Hi there, we are Rob and Brooke Lindsley! We moved full time to Whidbey in May and have been trying to find a more regular way to get on the water and improve our boating skills with likeminded people. We are so glad to learn about the South Whidbey Yacht Club and can’t wait to be a part of this community! A bit about us: Rob is a psychologist with an international humanitarian organization and Brooke is a physical therapist in private practice who specializes in dizziness, balance, and concussion. We are avid open water swimmers and have experience on small crafts and larger cruising vessels. Our goal is to eventually grow in capability such that we will be able to charter a liveaboard and cruise Desolation Sound. We are in no rush, though, and look forward to learning and having fun on all types of boats along the way.

Seth Muir has been the Executive Director of Sail Sand Point since 2019.  Prior to serving in this role, Seth was the Executive Director of Salish Sea Expeditions which is a non-profit sailing and marine science organization based in Puget Sound.

Sail Sand Point is a non-profit located on the North Shore of Magnuson Park with the mission of bringing the joy and life-enhancing benefits of sailing and small boats to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. Sail Sand Point achieves its mission through a wide range of youth camps, adult classes, adaptive water sports clinics, a robust community outreach program, and a fully integrated scholarship program. With 1,051 outreach participants, 458 hours of adaptive sailing, and $38,405 awarded in scholarships last year, Sail Sand Point continues its strides in making sailing and paddling accessible for all.

Seth will speak to us about the various boating programs and activities of Sail Sand Point and the work done in support of the organization’s mission which has much in common with SWYC and our YSA programs.

Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85172590208?pwd=Y52kVI0DWmqe3ymWvUsaVWW33Dc3XN.1

Meeting ID: 851 7259 0208
Passcode: 757832

In October, Daniel Evans, Harbormaster for the Northwest Maritime Center Wooden Boat Festival and Race Boss for the Race to Alaska (R2AK), will provide a recap off this year’s R2AK and the Wooden Boat Festival.  He’ll also include an update of plans for the future.

For future programs, see the event calendar on the SWYC
https://swyachtclub.org/meetings/#!event-list

The BIG fish!

Dancing to “Outta Control” playing high energy rock and pop covers. 🎶

NEEDED – Someone to handle the decorations for the ball.  It’s really as simple as some centerpieces and working with our theme title/linen colors.  And we have plenty of decorations we’ve used in prior years in our storage.  Contact Lee McGuire or bilgerat@swyachtclub.org if you can help us! Release that creative flare!

2023 Sailing Classes 

We continue to receive inquiries about youth and adult sailing classes and lessons.  The 2022 schedule was completed in July.  Watch our SWYC website for notice of 2023 classes in mid-April next year.  Both the schedule and how to register for classes will be available at that time.

https://swyachtclub.org/learn-to-sail/

A MESSAGE FROM BOB RODGERS, YSA PRESIDENT AND PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR:  

This year felt almost normal. In fact, better than normal.  Covid has had an impact on our program and we’re still feeling the effect.  Judging by our wait list of students (20), our program has the attention of a lot of area families, some of who were disappointed that we couldn’t get their kid onto the water this year.

We put 46 kids through our Youth Learn to Sail program this season.  Watching these youngsters on day one is one of my favorite times.  This is the last time the kids are quiet and pay some attention.  The looks on their faces range from fear and apprehension to confidence and eagerness to get started.  Within a couple of hours, they are in their own boat sailing, or at least trying to.  A gust of wind will come by and happen to match their sail configuration and their boat moves!  The rest of the week is guiding and letting them explore.  At the end of the week, their faces show their new confidence.  Some find a life directing activity in sailing, others find their own course.  In all cases they each have learned a little more about themselves and how to sail a small boat.

Another highlight for me is taking kids from our program who are now 14 to 18 years old and putting them into positions of leadership.  They run the teaching program.  They interact directly with the students, provide one on one coaching and do the standup teaching, drawing pictures and explaining to the students what they need to know to sail a boat using just the wind and the boat they’re in.  Youth teaching youth is often better than grandpa sharing his wisdom.

As club members and generally older community members, we know these programs don’t just happen.  The serious work to put on a production like this happens backstage months before, after and during the lessons.  The current cadre of YSA managers took on this YSA project as recently-retired 60-somethings more than a decade ago.  We’re now fast approaching our 80’s.  We all wish we were younger of course, but it’s getting close to other phases of our retirements.  There are many younger and retired, or about to be ​retired, club members, who have joined the club in the last few years.  Maybe it’s your time to enrich your retirement by actively participating in the YSA.  You too can see and enjoy  these young faces learning new life long skills and just  plain having fun on the water.  Please think about it.

Let’s not let these boats go empty next year. Please volunteer to help.

Kayaking with the SWYC

Ah, Fall is fast upon us but there is still time and good weather to kayak!

Our next paddle will be Saturday, September 17, 10:00 AM.  
Dave Davis and Barb Hardman are leading this paddle. It starts at the Sandy Hook boat launch (same as last year) and heads west (we went east last year) around Scatchet Head point continuing along the shoreline, and then turning around and returning to Sandy Hook boat launch. Trip out of 1 hour, return 1 hours (2 hours total).  There are no restrooms at the turn around, though the beach is accessible. There is a restroom at the start and stop. Start time is 10:00 AM. Bring a sack lunch, we’ll eat on our deck overlooking Cultus Bay, 8281 Sandy Hook Dr., after the paddle. Reply to Dave Davis or Barb Hardman if you’re interested in joining.

Our paddle Friday, August 5, which was to be a put in at the Langley Marina, was changed to Glendale Beach off Humphrey Rd. The winds were high at the Marina and with the choice to change location, we experienced a manageable less windy paddle. Four of us put in, experienced a bit of rolling waves and some wind, but had an exhilarating paddle.

Our first September paddle was scheduled for yesterday, September 3, at Mueller Park in Penn Cove with a paddle through the mussel beds and lunch in Coupeville.  Reports on both of the September events will be in the next newsletter.

Want to join this paddle? Contact Katy Shaner by accessing her email address online through the SWYC membership directory.

If you are interested in and are not yet on the SWYC kayaking list, please contact Katy Shaner and she will add you to the list.

Save the Dates! All Members Welcome!
Sunday, June 25 – Tuesday, June 27
3 days / 2 nights
Swift Creek Campground
Baker Lake

Camping, kayaking, boating, floaties, paddle boarding, jet skis or just playing on the beach.  All club members and their families who enjoy water activities with more ‘rustic’ natural accommodations are welcome.   

More information to come in the spring of 2023, but you might want to save the dates now.  We have a group site reserved already.  The group site will accommodate  ~ 6 camping parties (tents, trailers). If you want to reserve an individual more-private campsites at Swift Creek Campground, individual sites will be available for reservation 6 months prior to our dates, so in late December.  They fill up quickly.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/mbs/recarea/?recid=74986

Contact Barb Grimlund for more information or to indicate your interest in staying in the group campsite.

The Next Windward Women Gathering is in October

Thursday, October 6
9:30 AM

Ebey’s Landing Lower Lot

Followed by Libations at Ciao in Coupeville
Hosted by Patty Linehan and Pat Matthews

The next Windward Women gathering will be Thursday, Oct 6 at 9:30 am. We will be meeting at Ebey’s Landing, the lower parking lot.   Some can hike and some can beach comb followed by a social enjoyed by all. We will go to Ciao in Coupeville for libations!

A Discovery Pass is needed for parking.  Bring your pass or a daily pass can be purchased on site.

Join Us!
https://swyachtclub.org/windward-women/#!event/2022/9/6/windward-women-meeting

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly.  Mark your calendars for October 6, December 1, 2022 and February 2, April 6, June , August 3 and October 5 in 2023.

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly, the first Tuesday of the month.  Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

Ahoy Cruisers

August South Sound Cruise
SWYC cruisers are now returned from a successful cruise to the South Sound. The route approximated that taken by members of Phil Simon’s family back in the 1920’s. Phil guided us to Longbranch where we stayed at the Longbranch Improvement Club’s private marina. Phil was able to visit some of his family gravesites using his electrically assisted bicycle. On the way down, we made stops at Kingston, Seattle and Tacoma. We returned via Gig Harbor, and Phil also stopped in Bremerton.

Here we are having happy hour on the dock at Bell Harbor Marina in Seattle before hiking up to Cutters Crabhouse for dinner. Gordon Collins and Rhonda Salerno were able to join us by car there. Cutters comped us all to free desserts after they ran out of keylime pie, which they had been promoting heavily during the meal. Everyone was stuffed.

At Tacoma, we had “G” dock pretty much to ourselves. Jim and Melody Carney stayed a second day to spend some time at the Museum of Glass and the LeMay Car Museum. They rejoined us at Gig harbor

Pelican Racing

The SWYC Pelican summer series was concluded last Wednesday at Oak Harbor. Four boats contended with patchy winds, swirling currents and mass quantities of marine vegetation to complete three races. Bill Brown with Clay Canfield as crew managed to hang on to his first place season standing and the Gordon Collins  Rhonda Salerno team cemented their second place position. Bob Rodgers was out cruising but retained third place as other competitors also missed at least one race day. The series final results can be found on the Sailwave website

 https://www.sailwave.com/results/southwhidbey/SWYC2022SummerSeriesPelicans.htm.

We are looking at possibilities for some more Pelican activities during in what’s left of 2022 and next spring. Contact Bill Brown to be on the mailing list for updates on these events.

Laser Racing

There’s one more night of Laser races scheduled on September 7.  C’mon out for the final night!
https://www.sailwave.com/results/southwhidbey/SWYC2022SummerSeriesLasers.htm

Thanks to all those who show up, volunteers who perform Race Committee duties, and any other club members who support our small racing fleet.  It’s been a great year on the water!

https://swyachtclub.org/racing-calendar/#!event-list

Save the Dates!

Commodore’s Ball– Saturday, November 12

Holiday Party – Tuesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for September

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip –Award Nominations, Board Member Elections and Commodore’s Ball RSVP/Payment

We have a number of communications coming up in addition to our standard newsletter and meeting reminder notices.  Here’s a head’s up on what’s coming and where to look for them.

Founder’s Award

The South Whidbey Yacht Club Founder’s Award was established by the Board of Directors with the intention of honoring Club members who strive to fulfill the Vision & Mission of the SWYC, as directed by the Club Bylaws.  The award will be announced at the Commodore’s Ball in November.

The primary member, as indicated on your membership profile, will receive an email in mid-October asking for nominations to be sent to Katy Shaner, last year’s recipient.  Katy will be chairing the selection committee comprised of the three previous years’ recipients.
Read more about the award and the recipients from previous years here:

https://swyachtclub.org/club-awards/

Board Member Elections

Each year, as described in our Bylaws, SWYC holds elections for our Board of Directors positions.  In October, each primary member, as indicated in your membership profile, will receive an email with a link to the ballot with the slate of candidates for 2023.  Each membership, whether a Family or Individual membership, will receive one vote.  There will be more specific instructions in that ballot email.

Meet the 2022 Board here:
https://swyachtclub.org/about/meet-the-board-of-directors/

Commodore’s Ball

In mid-October, each primary member, as indicated in your membership profile, will receive the electronic invitation for the Commodore’s Ball to be held at Useless Bay Country Club on November 12.  In keeping with our environmental position, we will not be sending paper invitations.  Primary members will be able to RSVP, select their dinner choices and pay directly on our website.  There will also be an address for those who prefer to write a check.

https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!event/2022/11/12/commodore-apos-s-ball-more-information-to-come

More information for all three of these events will be available in October. Please watch for it so that you can continue to fully participate in club governance and fall events.  

If you have ANY questions about any of these, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org. (That’s me – Barb).  I’m happy to help you.  It’s important that you are able to access the information you need easily.

Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

Club activities are peaking or to put it another way, all the sails are hoisted, the spinnaker is out and we are flying downwind.  Projects on the home front are being neglected because there are just too darn many fun things going on around the club.  Read on to see what has been going on and what is yet to come.

Board Elections

We are beginning the process to search for new SWYC Board Members.  There are two known vacancies that we need to fill for the next year.  Patty Maxfield, Secretary, will be stepping down as is Kathy Rodgers, our Membership Chair.   Both will be sorely missed as their work has been foundational in keeping things flowing smoothly.  If you have an appetite to become more involved in steering the club into the future, now is your opportunity.

Last month I mentioned that we were beginning the process to fill two board vacancies.  There is no better way to keep the SWYC fresh and vital than to serve on the board and help steer us into the future.  Now you may think being a board member is all droll, boring meetings.  Au contraire SWYC shipmates, it’s fun, much more so than previous boards that I have had the privilege to serve on.  Give me a call or send me a note and let’s grab a cup of coffee or tea to talk. Or you can sit in on the August board meeting and see what it is all about.

If you aren’t quite ready to serve on the board, we will be appointing a nominating committee at the August board meeting where you can help select candidates to run in this fall’s election.

You do not need to have prior board experience nor have been a member for a minimum number of years.  It is a great way to quickly meet new people if you are relatively new to our community as well as being “in the know” about future activities.  Contact me, Commodore Pete Grimlund, if you are interested in learning more.  commodore@swyachtclub.org

On a personal note, the SWYC board congratulates fellow board member, Jake Levitt on his recent marriage to Kristen Mooney, also a member of SWYC and the daughter of Dan and Julia Mooney.  Dan is our Rear Commodore.   May you two enjoy long life and decades of happiness sailing through both the calm and the sometimes turbulent waters. Mazel Tov!

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Ken Albright

Ken, Letha and Becca Albright moved to Coupeville last year from Chico, Calif. They were delighted to find that the island offered so many opportunities to sail. Ken and Becca took a SWYC sailing class earlier this summer and are continuing to learn. Ken recently bought one of the club’s project Pelicans and is working on it.

Kent McCord

Recent participant in the adult lessons on Lone Lake this June.  Now I’ve got the sailing bug!

Melissa Farage and Josh Pettersen

Howdy, we’re Melissa Farage and Josh Pettersen. We love being on the water and working on our budding orchard/farm outside of Langley. We’re currently avid sea kayakers and are excited to join the South Whidbey Yacht club to get to know the community! Looking forward to meeting you all.

The SWYC Summer Social will be held at the Penn Cove Brewing Company in Freeland.
Wednesday, August 17
Time: 5:00 Happy Hour

An evening of relaxing with friends over a brew or beverage of your choice.  Food truck available.  No need to reserve a spot.  Just bring your lawn chair and let’s hang out, visit and share our summer boating  stories.

Barbara and I hope everyone who attended the  Crabfest enjoyed it as much as we did.  What a glorious day with great music, great food and a chance to see all of our friends!  If you haven’t seen them, Barb Grimlund posted some nice photos on our Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/928501823936636

Thanks so much to all the people who helped setup and cleanup.  You were a fantastic crew!  And a special note of thanks to Randall Ellis for his time spent on the grill.

We had the pleasure of receiving a very nice message from Honeymoon Bay Club thanking the Yacht Club for leaving the clubhouse and grounds so clean!

Jim and Melody Carney did a great job as co-hosts and they will be the lead for next year’s  Crabfest.  If anyone is interested in joining them as co-hosts, please let us know.

By the time you read this, Barbara and I will be on our boat in Desolation Sound.  We hope all of you are enjoying wonderful summer boating.
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A Note from Commodore Pete:   Bruce & Barbara

THANK YOU! for chairing the Crab Fest this year.  From the planning of the crabbing parties, cooking & cleaning the crabs, arranging for the venue and music, logistics of the food and party — resulting in a perfect summer celebration!

2022 Sailing Classes 

Congratulations YSA on completing three intense weeks of beginner and intermediate youth sailing classes!
Thirty beginner kids in three classes and sixteen intermediate kids in two classes, all aged 10 to 16, attended the classes held at Deer Lake.  Most of the beginner participants had never sailed before.  By the end of the week they were parading their boats proudly.

There are so many shout outs and thank you’s to everyone who makes this happen.

Instructors

Beginner Classes

• Bob Rodgers, Bill Brown, Bob Shepard
• Jr. Instructors – Colin, Alana, Sage & Isaac
• Jr. Instructor Helpers – Parrish, Kira & Emile

Intermediate Classes

• Clyde Jenkins, Clay Canfield, Michael Scott, Kennedy Horstman

Supporting Members – everything from boat maintenance, boat logistics, site set up, program administration and so much more!

• Bob Boehm, Perry Lovelace, Starke Scott, John Gibson, Peter Bunin with Brad Rice filling in when shipwright expertise was needed.

Shore Support – 12 members filled 30 shifts.

Apologies if I’ve left someone off the list.  So many people helped to make these classes happen.

And a special acknowledgement of appreciation for the Lakeside Bible Camp and the Lake of the Woods Community Association for allowing us to use their sites for our classes.

 Again, congratulations YSA and thank you all for providing this valuable community program!

Kayaking with the SWYC

Sum, sum, summertime. A time to delight in being on the water! Kayakers, let’s do it.

Our paddle on Monday, July 18, which was scheduled for a put in at Monroe Landing (north of Coupeville in Oak Harbor) ended up at Mutiny Bay. Arriving at Monroe Landing, the winds were more than we felt comfortable paddling in, so the four of us headed south. Good paddle. Easy put in. Gentle winds. All good.

Our next paddle is Friday, August 5 at the Langley Marina.  Put in is 10:30. Take out 12:30ish.

This paddle was originally scheduled for Monday, August 1 at Lake Campbell.  Unfortunately, I needed to change the date and location due to a personal conflict.

Please be aware that parking can be a challenge at the Langley Marina. We can unload our kayaks and then park up the hill in Langley.

Want to join this paddle? Contact Katy Shaner by accessing her email address online through the SWYC membership directory.

If you are interested in and are not yet on the SWYC kayaking list, please contact Katy Shaner and she will add you to the list.

August Windward Women Gathering – Penn Cove Brewery

Windward Women normally meets on the first Tuesday of the month in February, April, June, August, October and December. This month we are mixing it up and meeting on Friday, August 5 at Penn Cove Brewery at 4:00 pm. We’ll be enjoying a great beer or glass of wine. We’ll also be talking about how to move forward as a group since our current coordinator needs to step back for a while.  Bring your own chair to ensure seating! We’ll hope to find a spot in the shade.

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly, the first Tuesday of the month.  Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

Ahoy Cruisers

The itinerary is set for our August South Sound Cruise.  The route approximately follows that of Phil Simon’s grandfather who took a similar excursion in the early 1920’s in the pictured boat.  SWYC member Phil will be making this trip this year in part to relive old family memories

• Sunday 8/21 Kingston – Port of Kingston Marina
• Monday 8/22 Seattle – Bell Harbor Marina
• Tuesday 8/23 Tacoma – Dock Street Marina
• Wednesday 8/24 Longbranch – Longbranch Improvement Club Community Marina
• Thursday 8/25  Gig Harbor – Arabella’s Landing
• Friday 8/26 Bremerton – Bremerton Marina (Alternate Port Orchard Marina)
• Saturday 8/27 Poulsbo – Port of Poulsbo Marina

As always, cruise participants may choose to do the entire route or to join and rejoin us at those ports that suit their time and interests.  There are different reservation procedures at the various marinas, and we will not try to make group reservations.  Participants should make their own berthing arrangements and then let Bill & Jill Brown know which stops you will be making.  Contact Bill or Jill if you have questions or need more information.  Plans for activities ashore will be developed as we get feedback on who will be at which ports.

Pelican Racing

Only Two Pelican Race Dates Left

The final Summer Series races will be held on August 3rd and 31st.  With the onset of hot weather, we expect Lone Lake to start showing high levels of algae toxins.  Consequently, we anticipate moving to alternative venues for the remaining races.  Monroe Landing on the north shore of Penn Cove is the likely location for August 3rd, but Pelican racers should watch their email for confirmation.  So far, we have held 10 races with 7 different skippers sailing at least one day of competition.  Results of individual races and series standings to date can be found at the following link:

https://www.sailwave.com/results/southwhidbey/SWYC2022SummerSeriesPelicans.htm

Laser racing 

It’s been a mixed set of races over the last month – we usually get 4 races in per evening (every 2 weeks), but owing to light winds, we only managed one race on both 15th June and 29th June. Then on 13 July we were unable to secure the services of a Race Committee due to conflicts with the youth sailing classes, and so only 4 boats showed up, and completed 3 races.

So it was a delight that on Wednesday 27th July, not only did we have a Race Committee, we also had 8 boats out racing, a stiff 15 knot Northerly with big waves, lots of capsizes and a welcome return from 16yr old Colin Byler, who has been one of our prime Beginner Class coaches, and has been racing regularly with the Oak Harbor “Wildcats” team to some notable successes. Having recently returned from a gruelling training week down at the Gorge, a notoriously windy spot on the Columbia River, with winds of 30+ knots , his newfound expertise showed up with 3 second places and a third.  Well done Colin!

As usual, Zak Malbin continues to dominate the races, having won 14 of the 17 races so far, only being beaten by Terry (twice) and Mike (once)!

Laser Race Results

Thanks to all those who show up, volunteers who perform Race Committee duties, and any other club members who support our small racing fleet.

https://swyachtclub.org/racing-calendar/#!event-list

Want a U.S. Coast Guard approved Vessel Safety Check? It doesn’t matter the size of your vessel. It could be a kayak, a dinghy or a full-on cruiser or sailboat. Contact Patty Maxfield and she’ll work with you to find a time that works! This is a U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary sponsored activity so there is no charge for the boater.

Save the Dates!

Summer Social – Wednesday, August 17 – Penn Cove Brewery.

Commodore’s Ball– Saturday, November 12

Holiday Party – Tuesday, December 13

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for August

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

 Tip – Scam Security and Let’s Review!

Scam Security

Reminder: Our Commodore will never request a club member to purchase gift cards for him or other members.  If you ever get a request like this, call Pete Grimlund or contact bilgerat@swyachtclub.org right away.  This scam surfaces from time to time at SWYC and other organizations.  We all need to be vigilant of these attempts.  Contacting us will ensure we can investigate quickly and ensure our web security has not been compromised.

Let’s Review!
Each month we’ve included a website tip or ‘how-to’ tip for our members.  In case you’ve missed any of these or just want to review, here’s a list.   To access previously published tips, go to the “About the SWYC” tab, and then “From the Pilot House: the SWYC Newsletter” page.   https://swyachtclub.org/blog/ 

Either way just keep scrolling down the page to find the Website tips (usually at the bottom of each monthly newsletter) or go to the archive of SWYC Newsletters on the right side of the page and select the monthly newsletter you’re looking for.  Scroll down to the end of each newsletter to find the article.

Keeping Your Member Directory Profile Updated                   March 2022
How to Access and Use the Website Event Calendar             April 2022
Meet the Board of Directors                                                     May 2022
Club Photos Guidelines                                                           June 2022
How to Access and Use the Membership Directory                July 2022

If you have ANY questions about any of these, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org. (That’s me – Barb).  I’m happy to help you.  It’s important that you are able to access the information you need easily.

Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

The weather is improving just in time for the peak of seasonal member activities.  We just returned from the kayaking/camping trip to Lake Wenatchee State Park where I got to help out as “kayak dock boy”, or at least I think that was what the group was calling me when I wasn’t listening.  I wear the label proudly.

Back on the island, there’s much to do no matter what your water interests are.   Sailing lessons, racing, cruising, kayaking, Windward Women gatherings and of course our summer social events.  Be sure to read the full newsletter to find out what’s happening, when and where.  It’s a perfect time to also lend a hand to help out wherever you can.  Many hands make less individual work.

Next up for me is crabbing.  I have to admit to being very excited about the coming weeks of crabbing leading up to the Crabfest on the 10^th.  This year we are BACK – no restrictions – members and their guests all welcome.  I have several volunteer crew members to help with the crabbing on my boat.  However, it’s not too late if someone wishes to come out to help on my or one of the other boats for a day or two.  I’m sure we can find a spot for you on one of the boats.  All that is needed is a crab license and a willingness to pluck a feisty crab out of the pot.  Contact Vice Commodore Bruce Morris if interested.

Though there are many opportunities to dive in to help out your fellow members right now, I’d like to call out two important considerations for the fall. Yes, reluctantly, we do need to start planning ahead to fall programs and activities :

Commodore’s Ball 

The Commodore’s Ball is our one big ‘fancy’ shindig of the year.  This is a dinner/dance held at the Useless Bay Country Club scheduled for Saturday, November 12.  You can get all dressed up or come in more casual attire, but it’s an evening of socializing, music and celebration.   We haven’t had one since 2019 and it’s time to renew the tradition,and add some new ideas as well.

Lee McGuire has graciously agreed to be a co-chair for the event and has already started gathering information from prior years’ events.    She’s in need of at least one (or more) partner(s) to lead the planning of the event.  Man or woman, newer or more seasoned member – dust off those event planning skills that might have atrophied during the pandemic. The planning is where the fun begins!  If you can help, contact bilgerat@swyachtclub.org   or me.

Board Elections

We are beginning the process to search for new SWYC Board Members.  There are two known vacancies that we need to fill for the next year.  Patty Maxfield, Secretary, will be stepping down as is Kathy Rodgers, our Membership Chair.   Both will be sorely missed as their work has been foundational in keeping things flowing smoothly.  If you have an appetite to become more involved in steering the club into the future, now is your opportunity.

The commitment:  The board meets twelve (12) times a year, typically on the second Wednesday of the month.  Meetings typically last no more than 2 hours although it is somewhat dependent on how much visiting we do before, during and after the meeting.  We have moved to a hybrid format so that board members who cannot be present physically have the opportunity to participate via Zoom.  The term is for one year.  If the position suits you, there are no limits on how long you can stand for re-election.  The Commodore is the only term limited position – two (2) years and then off the board.

Member Relations – Duties include welcoming new members, presenting their application for membership at board meetings and being a member advocate to make sure that we don’t go stale.

Secretary – Duties include taking minutes at board meetings and ensuring minutes are approved and uploaded to the website for members to access.  The Secretary is also the historical reference of sorts at our board meetings.

Please consider stepping up to join the SWYC board.  You do not need to have prior board experience nor have been a member for a minimum number of years.  It is a great way to quickly meet new people if you are relatively new to our community as well as being “in the know” about future activities.  Contact me, Commodore Pete Grimlund, if you are interested in learning more.  commodore@swyachtclub.org

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Charles “Chuck” Sanders

I’ve sailed a few times when I was younger but am still a beginner sailor.  After my wife Stephanie and I moved to Whidbey Island two years ago from Boulder Colorado, I took the SWYC adult sailing lessons August/2021.  I got the bug and bought Derek Pritchard’s beautiful SF Pelican, but need to continue learning this summer, with our two sons who live in the Seattle area. My wife and I are retired (I am an architect and she was a legal secretary) and are really enjoying our new life and adventures on amazing Whidbey Island.  My other two main activities are gardening, and historic preservation volunteering.

Kennedy Horstman

I have been a resident of south Whidbey since 2008 and I have not spent nearly enough time on the water. I spent time sailing sunfishes and lasers when I was a kid and I’m interested in getting back on the water – particularly in boats small enough to give me a real kinesthetic experience of sailing. My partner has had more time on the water as an adult – kayaking and volunteering with Schooner Suva in Coupeville – but would like some sailing opportunities closer to home. We’re interested in the social aspect as well. It’s hard to imagine we wouldn’t enjoy the company of other club members hale and hearty enough to sail Holmes Harbor and around Whidbey.

Ahoy all Members and Guests!

It’s time for the Annual SWYC Crab Feast
at Honeymoon Lake Community Club House
4343 S Honeymoon Bay Rd
Greenbank, WA 98253

A great festive event with Dungeness crab, burgers, and dogs.
Live Music Provided by “Locomotion”

1300 – Setup Starts

1500 – The Feast begins…Don’t be late

PLEASE BRING WITH YOU:

Appetizers ~ A -J

Side Dishes ~ P – Z

Dessert ~ K – O

Wine, beer, and water will be provided

SWYC supports the “Whidbey Island Green” effort, so bring your own tableware and crab cracker

ALSO BRING:

Your favorite beach chair
A canopy if you want some shade
And some guests!!!

To defray costs, $5 pays our way! 

——————————

Volunteers are still needed.  Can you help?
Crab Cleaning and Cooking on July 9^th
(sounds like an unpleasant detail, but this is actually a lot of fun 🦀🥳

Crabfest on July 10^th

                         – Setup at 1:00 pm (when the party actually starts)

                         – Cleanup at end of the Feast

                         – Trash set up & removal

                         – Ice Pickup

If you can help in any way, please send a message to:
vice.commodore.swyc@gmail.com

BUILD A NUTSHELL PRAM

FUN PROJECT TO BUILD A NICE BOAT

WILL BE SOLD TO HIGHEST BIDDER AT
CRAB FEST JULY 10

GREAT SUMMER PROJECT
ALL PROCEEDS TO YSA/SWYC

ALL PIECES PRECUT MARINE WOOD
COMPLETE INSTRUCTIONS AND PLANS
ALL HARDWARE INCLUDED

CONTACT:
PERRY LOVELACE
https://swyachtclub.org/membership-directory/#!directory

2022 Sailing Classes Update and Help Needed
Adult Classes

Congratulations YSA on the completion of three adult sailing classes on Lone Lake during the month of June.  These are so much appreciated by the participants and the community!

Youth Classes

All youth classes are filled with a waiting list.  This is a hugely popular program for our kids here on Whidbey.

—————————————————

**NEW ** “Tours” of the YSA Youth Classes

As announced in the last club meeting, Bob Rodgers would like to have more membership awareness of our Youth – Learn to Sail (YSA) operations.  So, for the 3 weeks of camp, July 12th weekdays through the 29^th he is personally inviting club members onsite for a personal tour of the facilities YSA is using this year and to view the program activities while in operation.  The tour will include a boat ride on Deer Lake to see both the Beginners and Intermediate teaching locations.    Since you’ll of course need to stay out of the way of the students, only one or two people at a time and only one or two “tours” a day will be scheduled.  Email Bob of your interest for which day and either morning or afternoon session you prefer. Be sure to include your contact info.   Tours should last about 30 to 60 minutes and might get cancelled if necessary.   He’ll confirm the day and time and will provide directions.

Bob’s contact information is in the membership directory https://swyachtclub.org/membership-directory/#!directory ,

Be a big help for our Youth Learn to Sail Program.  Become a Shore Support Person.

Our Youth Program is full. Our first day of camp is July 11 and runs weekdays to July 29.  We need to fill out our Shore Support team.  We use club members, one or two at a time to be present each hour we have kids onsite.  Remain on shore while most class staff and students are out on the water.  Duties are few and easily understood.   Enjoy a day, or more, by the lake!

Being onsite is an important element of our safety and security protocols.   Bob Shepard is handling the sign-up sheet this year.  Shifts are 9am to noonish, and noonish to 2pm.  You can sign up for multiple shifts or just one.  You can come with a friend or on your own.

Want more detail, have some questions?

There are at least 20 shifts left to fill so contact Bob Shepard, prefers email. Bob’s contact information can be fount in the member directory.
https://swyachtclub.org/membership-directory/#!directory

 Bowman Bay

Kayaking with the SWYC

Summer has arrived!!! And that means, ‘Let’s get on the water’.

The paddle on Saturday, June 18 was a huge success. Seven of us put in on a low tide, (weather started the day with overcast and a drizzle) so our 10:30 put in was rescheduled for 12:30 by Dan Mooney who organized and led the paddle. The skies started to clear, the sea was a gentle roll and the current with us on our start but more challenging on our return. But hey, we’re tough. Go for it. We did. And all agreed, “What a good day to be in our kayaks and out on the waters of Whidbey Island.”
Another smaller group took a 3-day, 2-night camping and kayaking adventure to Lake Wenatchee State Park June 22-24.  Wind, waves and smooth-as-glass paddling. We had it all.   Not to mention yummy campfire cooking, sun and stunning mountain views.  A nice get away.  We’ll bring the sailors next time to enjoy those mountain winds.

Members of the kayaking group continue to reach out to fellow members for spontaneous paddles.  The SWYC “Mutiny Sands Branch” spent a sunny Saturday afternoon on the water paddling and enjoying their friendship.

Our next scheduled paddle is Monday, July 18, at Monroe Landing north of Coupeville. We will put in at 10:00 at a 2.6 falling tide. High tide at 8:59 and low tide at 3:16. Monroe Landing is an excellent put in. Good size park. Popular. Good parking. Scenic. Options to paddle north or south. With a portable toilet June 1 – September 1.

Want to join this paddle? Contact Katy Shaner by accessing her email address online through the SWYC membership directory.

If you are interested in and are not yet on the SWYC kayaking list, please contact Katy Shaner and she will add you to the list.

Lake Wenatchee State Park

Date Shifts and Seeking New WW Lead

The bi-monthly meetings of Windward Women are shifting months to remove conflicts with holidays like New Year’s, Memorial Day, 4th of July and Labor Day. Our next gathering will be August 5, followed by gatherings in October and December. Watch for more information in late July.

After two years, Patty Maxfield, is planning to step back from facilitating the Windward Women group. (THANK YOU PATTY!) She is hopeful that one of the great SWYC women will be willing to take a turn. It’s pretty easy, and fun besides! You don’t have to live on the island year round to be the organizer. Please let Patty know your questions and interest!

The Windward Women gather bi-monthly, the first Tuesday of the month.  Email Bilgerat@swyachtclub.org to get on the mailing list!

Next up – The San Juan Islands Cruise

Dates:  Friday, July 15 – Saturday, July 23
Leaders:  Bruce Morris and Barb Bergmann
Join for the whole cruise or for parts of it, or extend your trip at either end.  Be sure to let Bruce and Barbara know your plans.

Destinations

July 15 – 17   Hunter Bay

July 18  Blakely Island Marina

July 19  Reed Harbor

July 20 – 23  Gulf Islands

August South Sound Cruise

Plans for the August cruise to the South Sound are being formulated, and input from prospective participants is sought. The current schedule starts on Saturday, August 20th and concludes the following Saturday, August 27th. That should give us time to get to a few points south of the Tacoma Narrows with some stops on the way down and back. Some popular points of call could include Bell Harbor in downtown Seattle, Winslow on Bainbridge Island and Gig Harbor. As always, cruisers are welcome to join in parts of the itinerary and/or to extend their trip at either end of the published schedule. If you are thinking of going, please let Jill & Bill Brown know and suggest stops you would like to see included.

If you’d like to be on the Cruising email list for future updates, contact Jill and Bill Brown.

Pelican and Laser Racing are Underway!

Pelican Racing
We have held two Pelican race nights, both at our old favorite Lone Lake. We’ve had seven races so far and the top four skippers are within five points of each other. Here is a link to results so far. https://www.sailwave.com/results/southwhidbey/SWYC2022SummerSeriesPelicans.htm

The next races are scheduled for July 6th. The latest algae toxin tests at Lone Lake are still below the recreational limit, and additional test results are not expected before the 6th. While these limits may be exceeded by race time, they are set with extreme caution, and the water must be greatly over limits to pose a serious risk. We have thus decided to have one more race day at Lone Lake. Racers and spectators should use due caution. Don’t drink the water. Don’t bring your dogs. Don’t grip your wet sheets with your teeth. ….and let’s have another fun day of racing at our favorite little lake.

Laser racing continues at Holmes Harbor.

Check the SWYC website for the full schedule.  If you aren’t racing, come on down to watch the competitors with fellow members!
https://swyachtclub.org/racing-calendar/#!event-list

Save the Dates!

Crabfest! – Sunday, July 10

Summer Social – Wednesday, August 17 – Penn Cove Brewery. Details coming soon!

Commodore’s Ball – Saturday, November 12 – Want to be the event co-chair?

Holiday Party – Wednesday, December – Original 12/21 date may get moved to the prior week. Watch for an update confirming the date.

Keep track of all the club events and updates at:
https://swyachtclub.org/events/#!calendar

Website Tip for July

The SWYC website https://swyachtclub.org is an ever-changing but very important tool to our club.  We need your help in keeping it current and useful to each one of us and to those outside of the club.

Tip – How to Access and Use the Membership Directory

Since we have made the decision to remove all personal email addresses from our public website pages, all members should learn how to access member contact information on our password protected on-line directory.

• On the SWYC website swyachtclub.org, go to the “Current Members” heading
• Click on that heading to get the drop down box
• In the drop down box, click on “Membership Directory”
• You will be asked to enter your log in information (log in email of the Primary Account Holder and password).  If you do not know your password, you can request a new password.  Follow the instructions to change your password.
• Once in the site, you will be able to access the contact information of all current members.
• Choose the name of the person you are looking for and click on their name.  Their contact information will appear.

It’s quick and easy once you do it a few times.

NOTE – Contact information is only as good as how it is kept current.  Each member is responsible for keeping their information current.  While you are in the directory, be sure to check out your own information to ensure it is correct.   If you want to make changes, go back to the “Current Members” heading, click on it and then click on “Manage My Account”.  You can update all your information there.  Remember that only the Primary Account holder can make changes.  If you happen to log in with a secondary member email address, it won’t work.

If you have ANY questions about any of this, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org. (That’s me – Barb).  I’m happy to help you.  It’s important that you should be able to contact fellow members easily.

*** If you know of any club member who is not receiving these newsletters or other club communications, please email bilgerat@swyachtclub.org.  We’ll help them get connected. ***

Copyright © 2022 South Whidbey Yacht Club, All rights reserved.
You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website.

Our mailing address is:

South Whidbey Yacht Club

PO Box 316

Greenbank, WA 98253

As Commodore, I am fortunate to be looped in to most of the SWYC’s interest group activities. Things are happening as we all shake off the last of our winter doldrums to get back out on the water. At our home, our kayak has tasted salt several times this month as weather improved, allowing the kayaking group to press forward with more paddles. Similarly, the cruisers have detailed and replenished their boats for the SWYC shakedown cruise. Sadly, I was unable to accompany the group but look forward to tagging along later this year. And of course our racing season has kicked off for both the Pelicans and Lasers.

I wish to commend our Opening Day co-hosts – Bill & Jill Brown and Glenn & Tina Quinton for their efforts in making the day a resounding success. A last-minute scramble to find a dry venue was handled with ease allowing all 50+ of us to enjoy shared treats and many tasty chilis while exploring what each interest group has planned for the coming months. There even was room for the YSA to set up a Laser and an El Toro, fully rigged, ready to sail, except for the lack of wind and water to float on.

Part of the SWYC opening day ceremony is the drawing of the sword from the rock ritual.  Reciting the incantation to the mythic Triton and successfully withdrawing the sword was essential if we were to have favorable conditions this season.  The pressure was on, and for a brief moment I did not know whether I would be up to the task, but in the end, the sword was brandished  and dispelled any mischievous sprites who would seek to derail our fun.

EVENTS & PROGRAMS

Many thanks to Bruce Morris and Barbara Bergmann for stepping in at the last hour to share stories of their just completed rafting adventure at the May meeting.  They provided a new meaning to the pack out everything that you pack in, including waste.  Not even in all of our years living in Minnesota where people frequently canoed in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area, a designated wilderness area, have I heard of that requirement.

Our next big event will be the Crabfest in July.  Look for more details about the event and how you can participate in the coming weeks.

MONTHLY PROGRAM MEETING

Be sure to join us at our next general meeting – June 15^th at the Progressive Club in Greenbank for those who wish to attend in person or via live stream for those who prefer to attend electronically

Calm seas, fair winds and clear skies to you,
Pete Grimlund
Commodore
South Whidbey Yacht Club

Please welcome this month’s newest members to the yacht club.  We look forward to meeting them at our upcoming events.

Linda and Clay Kriss

Clay and I moved to Whidbey seven years ago from Issaquah.  We’ve lived in Washington for 34 years and are now both retired (Clay from the wine business, me from Commercial Insurance). We live in the Colony and Clay enjoys playing golf (most of the time).  I’m a photographer and dabble in mixed media art and other creative endeavors.

We’re total newbies on the water and purchased a couple of fishing kayaks last year to float around in Useless Bay for the summer.

Lance and Andriana “Andi” Sweeney

My wife Andi and I are new to Whidbey Island and to boating.  We visited this wonderful Island for an anniversary in 2008 and fell in love with it! We moved here a year ago never expecting to live here. We bought our dream boat last November.  A 1999 Lindell Oceanflight 2 36 foot.  We are looking to meet fellow boaters, make new friends and participate in club outings.  We live in Lagoon Point and have made many friends this year and are always interested in meeting more!  We like the lecture series put on by the club and would like to attend those.

Talena and Kyle Hagel

We just bought a place on Deer Lake and want our kids to grow up on the water. Excited for them to take sailing lessons and for us to have that social connection with the community.