COMMODORE'S CORNER
Debra Valpey,
Commodore

Welcome to the month of love! I suggest that you take several opportunities this month to reflect on what you are grateful for. Whether it be a loving partner, kids who still ask your opinion, friends you could call at 3 am, the ability to read a good book, plenty of chocolate, or (______ you fill in the blank) please be grateful in fully conscious ways. And please practice active compassion these days even as the Republican “slimary” (no, I did not make that word up—NPR did) builds to a cacophony of attacks and the Democrats continue to stand by their “Imperfect president” (his words). Just as the snow storms pass, so also will this election year.

I trust that you pondered my advice from last month to be sure your marvelous vessel is in order to take to the water, especially if she has been tied to the dock for too long. Our first Club Cruise of the season will occur at the end of next month. Read your Barnacle, watch the emails and consult our web site for registration details. This annual event is always a winner for all with yummy food, great games, camaraderie, and a location--Blake Island--that is a local treasure.

Our semi annual General Membership meeting is just around the corner (Feb 7) at the Milton Tavern in Federal Way. Joan Marie and Ray Valpey have arranged some fun speakers for us, and the beer and pizza is some of the best. Perhaps the very best part is seeing as many of us as possible connecting with our boating community. As there is no official business this time, you are welcome to bring visitors. Several club leaders will be making announcements about upcoming events, club projects and selected community events.

While some of us cuddle beneath our comforters and READ about racing, many of our members, under the leadership of Shelley C., Gordon K-M, and Steve F., have been pounding the waves since early January. 92 boats turned out for Duwamish Head. The winter storm interfered with our most recent race (only a few die hards ventured out) but the February 18 and 25th races are set and welcome your involvement. The Race Book was sent to our Web Site for posting and should be ready for your use very soon.

Our Vice Commodore, Kersten Hubbard, is getting the 2012 MSSS plans shaped up and may be asking for your assistance (a great chance to get involved without making large time commitments). When she asks you if you will ______, please say “Yes, Kersten!” The Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department is offering youth sailing lessons this spring. One hope is that these youth will be ready to participate in their own exclusive race during the MSSS races. What fun!

A small task force is busy working on new promotional materials for our club so all of us will have additional tools for spreading the news of TTPYC’s emphasis on fun and education. Watch for details as they are revealed.

And another friendly reminder to thank our officers and trustees and numerous volunteers 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 February General Meeting (Feb 7) and at our March Dinner Meeting dinner/social (March 13) and--finally--at our traditional Blake Island Crab Feed at the end of March. It is time to be out on the water after the blustery days of winter (unless of course you are a racer in which case the rest of us have just been weenies!)

See you soon! Happy winds be with you!

Yours in Sea Spirit, Debra Valpey