My bubble has burst and we have, in fact, returned from France. Comme habitude we had a great time in Paris, Lyon and Annecy. Among other things, we visited 3rd generation relatives who own a vineyard (read… I was happy to meet them) and did the usual number of museums. One of the highlights was the Maritime Museum in Paris. I was VERY impressed with the number of “admirality models” they displayed and REALLY liked seeing one of Napoleon’s barges. Gave me some great decorating ideas for PUFF. I have yet to figure out how to hang the Angels from the mast so they sit just over my head while at the tiller and I am looking into a loan for the solid gold cherubs. He was my kinda guy…. Anyway, we are glad to be home again.
I know that we missed a GREAT celebration for Opening Day. Congratulations to the new kid, Bud Caldwell, for a well-deserved award. I know that between MJ and Bud, they are probably thinking about adding on a new “Trophy/Award room” for their home. Bud… you must know just how much the entire club admires and respects your talents, skills, ethics, knowledge and especially your character. I, for one, am honored to be a member of the PC fleet just because of your involvement.
Additional congratulations to another newcomer named Jack Sutphen who (I am shocked to learn) won our class at the Opening Day race. Jack… Cissy and I still laugh and shake our heads about the time you graciously offered to take me out to teach me how to fly a kite. I remember being near the bait barge, while you were lecturing me for not having 1. A black Marks-Alot, 2. A red Marks-A lot and 3. duct tape. It was about that time (I am sure you remember) that you asked me for the spinnaker. I will never forget the look on your face when I told you that the spinnaker was sitting on the dock because I forgot to bring it. Well... all I can tell you is that next time we race... if I remember to bring all my stuff… you’re toast! Congratulations on yet another win!
I just came back from US Customs and cleared hull #25 from British Columbia. I am still in shock having bought two more boats..but at the same time am thrilled that yet two more PC’s are back home and available to new potential PC skippers. Granted, these two are “project boats”… but when you remember that many of our boats were “basket cases” and are now award winning classics since they’re “rebirth”…it makes these new additions beautiful. I am working on two others, as well, so those readers who are interested should contact me.
I just came in from the Ancient Mariners Yesteryear Regatta. We had 10 boats at the line and all sailed in a fairly tight pack. In fact, the greatest class number sailing was PC’s! Get used to it San Diego Sailors!
On May 26th, we will have hosted our PC Fleet Open House. I am sure it will have been a success. Don’t forget the popular Kettenburg Regatta will be held on June 9th (again sponsored by the Ancient Mariners) and June 15-16th will bring the San Diego Wooden Boat Festival sponsored by Koehler Kraft. This is your opportunity to see many wonderful wooden vessels. A portion of the proceeds will go to the San Diego Maritime Museum, PC WINGS Restoration Project. Please attend this event or send in a donation to the museum to aid in completion of the project. Lastly, June 30th will be our “Lady Skipper” fun race. I hope to see a good turnout for what I promise to be a really fund day. Our Fleet Captain and advisory crew are doing everything they can to make our events inclusive to all interests, so please show your appreciation by participating!
So… as you can see, the PC Fleet is alive and well and active. After 70 plus years…we are still here and we sure as heck aren’t going away. In fact, our numbers are growing. I can see SC George Kettenburg Jr smiling down on us and telling his kid brother, Paul, to get down to the yard and get started on hull number 84!
Until next month, enjoy your club and get out there with the fleet!
Rish Pavelec
PC #63