COMMODORE'S CORNER
Debra Valpey,
Commodore

Welcome to the next year of your precious life! I trust that this promising new year finds you feeling hopeful, energetic, and creative. As I sit at my rocker (yes, Grandma’s got a rocker now!) I marvel at the beauty of a sunset, the grace of a gentle breeze, and wonder why I am not on my boat! I know it is still a bit chilly out there but, trust me, spring is coming! I also hope your vessel’s health is checking out well. Remember to check your bilge...Ray and I are grateful that we didn’t wait too long to find out if ours was working! This is a good time to get sails repaired or upgraded.

Is your rigging secure? Is it time to speak to an expert about your concerns before you get that gorgeous creature out on the water rather that tied to a dock.

Our club’s plans this year are shaping up beautifully thanks to the hard work of Joan Marie (Social), Ray V (cruise), Gordon K-M, Shelley C, and Steve F (racing), and Tom H (Boats for Beds). Kersten H will hold her first Mid Sound Summer Social Planning meeting later this month, on the 24th, and many of you will be invited to assist. Please tell Kersten YES when she calls.

Our able trustees (Dave K, Doug A, Tim Mc, Don B, and Jerry S) along with our Officers (Laura C, Caroline Mc, Dave G) are meeting each month in order to be sure that TTPYC is ready to roll as soon as racing and cruising is feasible. Which brings to mind Duwamish Head, this Saturday, January 7. So many of you have offered to help, which warms my heart, and allows Shelly and Gordon to sleep at night. Thank you! Club Cruising begins in March. Mark your calendars now. Doug and Sharon A, our membership chairs, are preparing some new tools for building membership. As soon as these are available, we will share them with you and ask for your help in inviting visitors to our club events. Hey! You could invite someone to our January 11 dinner/social at Angelo's. Our general meeting in February is also open to visitors (note that the date for this one week early so as not to interfere with Valentine’s Day.) Inviting someone new to a social event is a fun way to demonstrate that our “emphasis is on fun.” Consider referring interested visitors to our Web Site, also, so they can learn even more (thanks to Mike E). Speaking of fun, please notice that the Des Moines Parks Department is already promoting Youth Sailing Programs. We have a task force who has been meeting with Marina and Park Department officials to see what our club involvement might include.

When you see any of our officers or trustees please take a moment to thank them and ask how you might be able to assist. Maybe you have an afternoon to spare or a talent to share? When we share projects we connect in new ways to our boating community.

I look forward to seeing you at our January dinner/social and--very soon--out on the water!

Yours in Sea Spirit, Debra Valpey