Filename: Racer-Cruisers: PHRF 1978-86

 

RACER-CRUISERS:  PHRF FLEET RACING 1978-1986

 

COMMODOREs: 1978 David B. McDowell, 1979 David Gorman, 1980 Jim Connors, 1981 Joseph G. Garcia, 1982 Howard A. Altman, 1983 Kjell Dahlen, 1984 Katie White, 1985 Robert Smith, 1986 David Bruner

 

"RACER-CRUISERS" AS AN EMPHASIS IN DESIGN

It is interesting that the introduction of a new handicap system, which was designed to simplify multi-design racing fleet handicaping, occurred in the Valcour Sailing Club at about the time that so called "racer-cruisers" first appeared in the Club. Also, many of the racer-cruisers which would appear in the VSC racing fleet from 1978 to 1984 were designed to a measurement rule, mostly the Midget Ocean Racing Club rule for boats of about 22 to 30 feet in length over all.

There probably cannot be any consensus today in the Club regarding what constitutes a racer-cruiser as differentiated from the cruiser-racer; hard and fast definitions in yachting are rather rare because of such diversity of design philosophies among designers. Generally speaking, a racer-cruiser is a sailboat that gives the appearance to the experienced skipper of being designed and rigged primarily to race, with cruising amenities as an afterthought. More often than not, the racer-cruiser is a fractional rig with additional running rigging, such as baby-stays and/or running stays, to control sail shape on a bendy mast. Also characteristic is a rather low cabin overhead with simple interiors designed to support minimum crew needs as opposed to lengthly cruising needs.

In many racer-cruisers, the auxiliary power is a transom mounted outboard which can be easily dismounted and stowed close to the boat's center of gravity. Below the waterline, wetted surface is kept to a minimum, fin keels of moderate to deep draft predominate, and there are no thru-hull fittings except probably a knot-meter paddle wheel. Rudders could be balanced spade or transom hung but always with a tiller rather than a wheel in boats typical of the VSC.

 

RACER-CRUISERS IN THE VALCOUR SAILING CLUB

One of the first "racer-cruisers" on the scene in the Valcour Sailing Club was Bill Rowe's CRISIS, J-24 #21896, which he campaigned in 1978 with a PHRF rating of 168 seconds per mile. In 1987, the J-24 class would celebrate its tenth anniversary as one of the most successful and popular one-design classes in the United States and the world. Designed by Rod Johnstone, the original J-24, RAGTIME, was built in his garage in 1976. Since that year, several thousand have been built world wide. J-24 #21896 was active for several years in the VSC racing fleet having been campaigned as OBSSESSION (1979) by Kjell Dahlen, GRUINARD III (1982) by Derek Allan, and OUTLAW (1983-86) by Andy Edwards. In 1979, Skip Barnett was campaigning LOLIGO, J-24 #1399 while Bill Rowe was in a new CRISIS that year, another racer-cruiser, Tartan Ten #22998, with a PHRF rating of 126 sec/mi.

In 1980, there were two new Tartan 10s: Bill Rowe's SPIRIT OF VALCOUR #30110, and Kjell Dahlen's OBSSESSION #23571. In 1983, Derek Allan was campaigning BRENDAN J, J-29 #117 and in 1984 there were several racer-cruisers in the VSC racing fleet including David McDowell's Olson 30 Ultra Lite Displacement Boat (ULDB) #32942 weighing only 3800 lbs. David Gorman & Mike Parsons likewise had an Olson 30 ULDB, WITCHCRAFT; Bill Rowe campaigned GHOST OF VALCOUR, J-29 #32293; and Jim & Alice Connors were in a Poitin 24.

Other racer-cruisers in the VSC fleet included Dave Bruner's PEGASUS, a Farr 1/2 Ton (1985-86), and Bill Rowe's GHOST, a Beneteau First Class 8 (1986). Another boat, better called just a racer, is Gene Grafauls' FREE SPIRIT, an Irwin mini-ton rated at about 216 sec/mi. Other racer-cruisers in the Club have included Randy Kruger's J-22 #32 MAJIC, and possibly Todd Wufson's Ranger 23TM #395 THUMPER. Kjell Dahlen's OBSESSION, J-35 #33751, is arguably a racer-cruiser with rather comfortable accomodations below.

Probably the quintessential racer-cruiser, first appearing in Club and LCRC races in 1985, was Tim McKegney's ADRENALIN, Kiwi-35 #33924. Aptly named for the chemical response possible among its crew, the winged hull allows - even mandates - its human ballast to shift their weight to keep her on her "feet." ADRENALIN is the scratch boat in the Club and LCRC fleets with a base PHRF rating (1986) of 21 secs/mile and an adjusted rating of 12 secs/mile with her oversized (198%-213%) spinnaker. At that rating she gives a J-35 (1986 PHRF 72 secs/mile) one minute per mile! Long distance races must be a rather lonely affair for boats that must sail that far out in front of the fleet to be competitive.

 

PERFORMANCE HANDICAP RACING FLEET RULE

In 1978, the Valcour Sailing Club, as did the Lake Champlain Racing Conference, went to the Pacific Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) rule. Originating in southern California (most areas now substitute "performance" for "Pacific"), it had spread to the major racing centers in the Northwest, the Great Lakes, Long Island Sound, and Chesapeake Bay. This from the Encyclopedia of Sailing (1978):

 

"The concept of PHRF is that a boat is handicapped in accordance with the way it actually performs in races. If a class or boat never wins, the handicap is adjusted to a more favorable one; if a boat consistently wins, its handicap will be unfavorably adjusted until equity is approached. This differs from the mathematical-formula type of handicapping used by IOR and CCA, in which many features of a yacht are measured and these measurements become factors in a series of empirical equations used to compute a rating. If a rating is unfavorable {under CCA, IOR, or MORC}, the owner has no recourse other than to modify the yacht, which is usually expensive and sometimes impossible."

 

Performance handicapping attempts to rate any yacht so that, if well sailed, it has a fair chance of winning. In the Valcour Sailing Club, as part of the LCRC, this is done by a group handicappers from the three conference clubs. They generally meet in the Spring of each year, assign initial ratings, and adjust existing ratings. In the LCRC, ratings from thruout the United States are examined for boats in the local fleets. Since PHRF data were computerized early on, there exist a huge data bank on which to base decisions. Newly introduced boats present a special challenge to rate accurately and are normally given a tentative rating until performance data are available from actual race results. All racing done in the VSC since

1978, with the exception of one-design events such as the J-24 fleet included in LCRC events sponsored by the VSC, have been under the PHRF system of handicapping. Club boats that are not members of the LCRC are rated by their respective clubs; the Valcour Sailing Club has been responsible for rating entries in the Mayor's Cup which do not otherwise have a rating on Lake Champlain.

 

PHRF LAKE CHAMPLAIN

PHRF Lake Champlain is a board of handicappers drawn from the member yacht clubs of the Lake Champlain Racing Conference: the Lake Champlain Yacht Club, Shelburne, Vermont; the Mallett's Bay Boat Club of Burlington, Vermont; and the Valcour Sailing Club, Inc. of Plattsburgh, New York. It has been in existence since 1978 and "functions under the control of the LCRC. It is also a member of the United States Yacht Racing Union (USYRU) PHRF network and draws information through this organization from over forty other PHRF organizations around the country."

 

"The aim of PHRF is to furnish each boat with a rating that fairly represents the speed potential of the boat when well maintained, fully race equipped including new racing sails and sailed by a highly proficient crew to the full racing capability of the boat. PHRF is not intended to reflect skipper or crew ability and every effort is made to keep to this intent. PHRF does not use formulas to determine handicaps. It is subjective and, as such, all ratings and adjustments are known to contain a "probable error" of unknown magnitude or direction. When evidence shows the need for corrections, they are made. Because of this, no rating is ever "final"; PHRF is always open to new evidence and any rating may be changed at any time without prior notice. However, it should also be noted that the ratings of boats on which PHRF has extensive data and experience tend to be very stable. It is the new designs or boats which have been modified which tend to be looked at the hardest and are most likely to have their ratings changed as a data bank of actual racing experience is built up."

(draft, "PHRF LAKE CHAMPLAIN EXPLAINED", March, 1987)

 

PLANNING IN THE SPRING OF 1978

The minutes of the Valcour Sailing Club during the Spring of 1978 reflect much activity in several areas other than discussions regarding handicapping, which have previously been summarized. Most prominent that spring were discussions regarding the first running of the Mayor's Cup which would follow in July of that year. Other subjects included closing the old (1971) account on the VSC committee boat, small boat classes, leasing of shoreside facilities, cruising activities, and the race schedule in general. Portions of the record are included here inasmuch as they permit the reader some degree of insight into the dynamics of the Club at that time. Also illustrated is the amount of off-season work by the Executive Committee which goes on each winter in preparation for the next season's activities. The minutes of the Executive Committee in 1978 also illustrate excellent record keeping which makes the task of reconstructing the Club's chronicle easier work years after those events have occurred.

 

Minutes of VSC Executive Committee - January 11, 1978

      ".... The treasurer was authorized to pay a bill from the Larchmont Yacht Club for membership in USYRU, and for registration in the North American Yacht Register. He was also authorized to pay for trophies in the amount of somewhat over $200. ... It was further authorized ... to pay those who contributed to the initial purchase of the Committee Boat. It was felt at this time that approximately $450 could be expended from the special account for that purpose.

      "... A report of the rating systems survey conducted by the LCRC was reviewed as well as a paper from the Lake Champlain Yacht Club discussing their rating problems. The following motions were made, seconded and approved insofar as ratings and rating systems for the forthcoming year:

      1. The Valcour Sailing Club will use MORC rules as its primary rule for the forthcoming year.

      2. The Commodore is directed to recommend to the Lake Champlain Racing Conference that the LCRC should race under MORC rules as is applicable, and that boats over thirty feet which cannot be rated under MORC should be rated under IOR in two classes.

      3. The MORC standard printout of ratings will be adopted by Valcour Sailing Club for the forthcoming season. Actual MORC measurements may be made and will be accepted. The measurer may assign ratings for boats not covered under the standard printout.

      4. Valcour Sailing Club will make no allowance under the MORC measurement for genoas of less than 170% and recommends to LCRC that they adopt the same stand.

      5. Boats which are not measureable under MORC for club races will have ratings assigned by interpolation of the table with the appropriate measurements being made.

 

      "Tom Harwood brought up the subject of a Class for trailerable boats, to be raced on shorter courses and at different time from the regular fleet, and to be subject to different awards. This was expanded to include, possibly, another working sail class as we previously have had. It is worthy of note that the working sails class has gradually disappeared inasmuch as they have now joined the regular racing fleet. Tom Harwood and Ed Goodrich were appointed as a committee to set up plans for the two classes and to arrange for publicity for same.

      "The recruitment of Canadian sailors was discussed. Jim and Alice Connors, and Hilton Dana will check with Dock and Coal for their reservation list and call names for potential racers to be contacted by the club.

      "It was decided to have a party on .. February 24. The program will consist of awarding of the plaques from last year as well as a set of photographs of the Tall Ships program. The Commodore will initiate arrangements for the party inasmuch as the Rear Commodores will not be available ....

      "Safety requirements for boats participating in overnight races were discussed in great detail, being initiated by David Gorman. Considerable concern was evidenced by all present at the inability of Class D boats to have adequate safety material on board for overnight racing. It was also felt advisable that boats in Class A, B, and C ..... should be required to have life rafts for overnight racing as well as the other offshore requirements. The Commodore was instructed to bring this to the attention of the LCRC.

      "Ed Goodrich reported on the 'Mayor's Cup' which has been suggested by Mayor Ianelli. It was felt by the group that this race should be conducted by Valcour Sailing Club and should probably include IOR, MORC, and working sails boats. It was further felt that this should not be within the framework of the Lake Champlain Racing Conference, but should be a Club activity in co-ordination with the Mayor's office. A starting point off of Dock and Coal was suggested. This will be discussed in more detail at the forthcoming Executive Committee meeting.

  ... Respectfully submitted, David B. McDowell, Commodore"

 

Minutes of VSC Executive Committee - February 8, 1978

      "Present: Altman, Rowe, Garcia, Walcoff, Eisinger, Goodrich, McDowell, Lawrance et al.

      "Treasurer reported that he had found the list of those who had contributed in 1971 for the {Boat Fund} and the amounts contributed. There are insufficient funds in the Boat Fund to completely eradicate the donations. It was decided that he would pay off those contributors who are no longer members of the Club insofar as funds up to $450 would permit. This will be coordinated with Bill Rowe so that the contributors will be invited to rejoin at a reduced rate.

      "A letter from Dale Hyerstay, Race Committee Chairman of LCYC, to Gib Smith, Race Chairman of MBBC, was discussed. It appears that LCYC and MBBC may attempt to unite insofar as their handicap system {is concerned} and that this system might well be PHRF. In this case there would be sufficient votes in LCRC to have LCRC race PHRF. It was the opinion of the Executive Committee that Valcour Sailing Club should continue to race MORC as originally planned but would have no objection to scoring LCRC races under PHRF.

      "Howard Altman discussed the plans for the Wednesday night series ....... It was ... decided that sail changes down {presumably in size} could be made during the course of a Wednesday night race. However, once a sail change down had been made the yacht could not again move up to a larger foresail. Yachts with roller furling reefing may reef and unreef as well as yachts with headsail reefing may reef and unreef.

      "The Mayor's Cup was discussed in some detail and July 8 was suggested as an appropriate date. This will be an invitational race. It was suggested that if LCRC goes PHRF that the cruising yachts be rated under PHRF for the race.

      "While the cruising yachts are sailing, Ed Goodrich plans to run several races in the immediate area of Dock and Coal for planing hulls and trailables. Norm Lawrance reported that the Power Squadron plans a cruise on the night of the 8th {July} on the Juniper. It was felt that this could be co-ordinated into the festivities surrounding the Mayor's Cup.

      "The possibility of leasing the old yacht club premises at Dock and Coal were further discussed. It was felt that $500 would be a maximum payment for the lease which would include use of the building and property. It would be anticipated that storage racks for Laser and board boats could be built by the club at that site.

      "Ed Goodrich reported on his progress with small boat classes. Apparently, he has ten or more people interested. A questionnaire has been mailed out by Tom Harwood on this subject and the results will be tabulated shortly. A Saturday racing schedule for small boats is planned. It was felt that prior to publicity for this, the arrangements as far as Dock and Coal {is concerned}, should be firmed up inasmuch as no other suitable site for small boat racing seems to be apparent. Respectfully submitted, David B. McDowell, Commodore

 

Minutes of VSC Executive Committee - March 14, 1979

      "Information from LCRC Meeting: MBBC and LCYC have both voted to use PHRF for their clubs and presumably will want to use this for LCRC competition as well. A Lake Champlain PHRF will be organized with one handicapper from each club. This organization {PHRF Lake Champlain} will supply PHRF handicaps to the individual clubs and to LCRC. There is no individual charge for PHRF handicap but the clubs may contribute to the cost of PHRF. While VSC will run its races under MORC the figures for PHRF will be calculated as well to help Lake Champlain PHRF. (This is modified from the minutes on the basis of communications received from Mike Lynch of LCYC and Gib Smith of MBBC).

      "Norm Lawrance is still working on the Boat Fund problem. It is now being decided how to disperse the money. People with money in the Boat Fund will be given memberships if they so desire. All persons who do not wish membership will be given back the money vested in the Boat Fund.

      "Bill Rowe and Dave McDowell will contact Dock & Coal Marina as to the availability of the old Yacht Club building for use as a clubhouse for VSC.

      "The Mayor's Cup Race will be held July 8th. Officials of the Power Squadron, the U.S. Coast Guard, Plattsburgh Air Force Base, and owners of the Juniper have all been contacted and they have all agreed to co-operate fully. A meeting with Mayor Ianelli has been set up to further discuss and finalize plans for this event. More information will be included in the next newsletter.

      "The small boat survey conducted by Tom Harwood disclosed that most of the response was for trailerable-cruiser type boats. It was felt that educational seminars should be set up to increase knowledge of sailboat racing and seamanship. Wayne Twining, Peter Hornby, and Hilton Dana were appointed educational committee.

      "A public relations committee was also formed. This will consist of Joanne and Joe Garcia.

      "A tentative long distance cruise is being formed by Norm Lawrance. All those wishing to participate or needing more information are asked to contact Norm. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Altman, Secretary

 

Minutes of VSC Executive Committee - April 4, 1978

      "No more known about LCRC than was reported in the last minutes. We have received a Race Committee Manual, MORC Timetable, and MORC Measurer's manual all of which will be reviewed by the Race Committee.

      "There is nothing new to report on the clubhouse at Dock & Coal Marina but it was decided that if we do get the clubhouse our dues might possibly have to be raised {RdF - from $30}. If this is the case, the boat fund group who elected to take membership in lieu of their money would be exempt from this except on a voluntary basis.

      "Norm Lawrance will be meeting with Mayor Ianelli next week to discuss the Mayor's Cup Race.

      "Reminder of the Spring Banquet to be held ... April 28th at the Wharf Skellar. Bill Rowe has contacted a representative from North Sails who is willing to come to our banquet and speak to us along with films. Joe Garcia will send out a press release to the Press Republican to hopefully encourage new members to come.

      "The person who has the Commodore's Cup is asked to contact Dave McDowell. He would like it back! ... Respectively submitted, Nancy Altman, Secretary

 

Minutes of L. Champlain Racing Conference - May 11, 1978

      "Meeting included race committee chairmen of the three clubs, delegates from the clubs to the LCRC, and members of the Board of Handicappers of PHRF Lake Champlain.

      "Mike Lynch presented the case for PHRF Lake Champlain. This included a descriptive paper concerning PHRF, its handicapping procedures, equipment, and appeals. There was also a schedule of standard rating adjustments and a proposed set of by-laws.

      "The initial action was to incorporate PHRF Lake Champlain into LCRC and to change the proposed by-laws to fit those of LCRC. This was approved unanimously. The group then went through the papers and made changes as noted below: {RdF - line by line changes made}

      "The PHRF Lake Champlain Schedule of Standard Rating Adjustments was accepted in toto without changes. 'PHRF By-Laws' were accepted with" {several changes in what appear to be essentially administrative details}.

      "The LCRC Executive Committee then unanimously selected PHRF Lake Champlain as its handicapping body. The decision to continue with four classes was made, the recommendation as to cutoffs for the classes to come from the Board of Handicappers. It was also noted that there was precedence for a yacht to race in a higher class should she so desire.

      "David McDowell was re-elected as commodore. The commodore was authorized to correct the LCRC pamphlet to reflect the changes above.

      "Members present: Gorman, Garcia, Shearer, Parker, McGinty, Lynch, Marshall, Brown, Wolvington, Goodrich, McDowell

Respectfully Submitted, David B. McDowell, Commordore LCRC"

 

Subsequent to that LCRC meeting, which included greater club representation than was normally the case for LCRC Committee meetings, Jim Connors, the Valcour Sailing Club's first PHRF rater, sent a letter to VSC members indicating that "the Lake Champlain Racing Conference has adopted the Performance Handicap Racing Fleet rating system for use this season. Because this system replaces the CCA measurement system, additional information is needed to re-rate all yachts."

      Attached to the letter was a PHRF rating application that essentially included the same information currently being used with the exception of data for ketches and the skipper's estimate of boat speed under power in calm water (hull speed).

The reader needs to interpret these records relating to handicapping in the context of that year. During the spring of 1978, one must understand, there was no experience with the actual problems involved in making judgments about individual boat ratings. There was much less national data than was to be available just a few years latter. David McDowell recalls that the primary concern within the Valcour Sailing Club was that PHRF could favor those skippers who were less than skillful in terms of boat preparation, maintenance, and performance on the race course. Skippers who never placed in races could ostensibly apply for more favorable ratings citing their present rating as unfair (rather than strive towards sailing their boats to its rating through better boat preparation and crew skill).

There are two philosophical aspects of PHRF rating. On the one hand, the boat is to be handicapped "in accordance with the way it actually performs in races. If a .... boat never wins, the handicap is adjusted to a more favorable one; if a boat consistently wins, its handicap will be unfavorably adjusted until EQUITY is approached." On the other hand, "the aim of PHRF is to furnish each boat with a rating that FAIRLY represents the speed potential of the boat when well maintained, fully race equipped including new racing sails and sailed by a highly proficient crew to the full racing capability of the boat. PHRF is not intended to reflect skipper or crew ability and every effort is made to keep to this intent."

      One can find skippers on both sides of the 'fence' on this matter depending upon how he/she views his/her position vis-a-vis the rest of the fleet.

In the middle of this judgment call is the PHRF handicapper who must at least appear to be a "mugwumper" with his "mug" on one side of the fence and his "wump" on the other. The Board of Handicappers must exercise experienced judgment regarding the PRIMARY reason a boat may be consistently winning or losing races. The handicapper must, on the one hand, be open to the possibility of an unfair rating for a well-sailed boat, and, on the other hand, guard against rating a poorly sailed boat more favorably. If this cannot be achieved, PHRF encourages mediocrity by striving for 'equity' in race results rather than reward for competitive skills.

Complicating this need for Solomonic judgment is the fact that handicappers are themselves skippers and members of the racing fleets, both within their respective clubs and the Lake Champlain Racing Conference. One experienced handicapper remarked (possibly questionning why he volunteered for this task) that he could not even go into the head at his yacht club to "take a piss" without some skipper following him in there with a complaint about an 'unfair' rating.

One way to avoid the task of making judgments of why a boat is winning or losing consistently is to merely average the national PHRF data, particularly for boats that are ubiquitous in the country's fleets. If this could be done for all boats in the local fleets the Board of Handicappers could be replaced by a computer fed by national data. One has to wonder what the meaning of this would be if all the clubs in the USYRU PHRF network were doing the same thing. There is no escaping the need for judgement in the use of the Performance Handicap Racing Fleet method of handicapping yachts. No system of handicapping, no matter what the sport, is free of human judgement and, it necessarily follows, of human error.

 

Executive and Race Committee Meeting - July 20, 1978

Members Present: Dave McDowell, Jim & Alice Connors, Joe Garcia, Bill Empsall, Norm Lawrance, Ed Goodrich, Dave Gorman, Howard & Nancy Altman

      "The first thing discussed was MORC ratings and handicaps. At the present time we are using the MORC print out for our information but since that print out there have been changes. Evaluation of the changes is underway and a new formula and calculations will be made as they apply to members of the club and this will go into effect as soon as possible. It is hoped that these new calculations will be ready for use starting with the third Sunday Series race. It was felt and put into a form of a motion that the Ensigns' rating of 14 feet will be changed to 17.5 feet when this new formula goes into effect. This motion was made by Bill Empsall and seconded by Joe Garcia; all were in favor.

      "The motion was made by Jim Connors that the MORC rating be used in our Wednesday Night Series Races. This was seconded by Howard Altman and all were in favor. This will go into effect starting with the next Wednesday Night Series Race.

"We will keep the Working Sails Class for the Sunday Series Races. The Valcour Rule will be used with no penalty for jibs less than 125%. It was felt by the race committee that due to the proficiency acquired by Hilton Dana he will not be allowed to compete in the Working Sails Class next year. His boat is fully equipped to make this step into the racing class.

 

"For next year the Commodore's Cup and Cracked Pot races will be sailed under MORC. For sail inventory with no spinnakers there will be a 0.5 foot credit and for sail inventory with less than 150% genoa there will be a credit of 0.5 feet.

 

"Ken Wolvington from Vermont, who sailed in the Mayor's Cup Race, had some complaints about the class structure of the race which he presented in a letter to Mayor Ianelli. The Mayor in turn gave the letter to Dave McDowell who answered Ken's letter and the matter is now resolved.

 

"The date for the Second Annual Mayor's Cup Race will be Saturday, August 4, 1979 with a rain date of Sunday, August 5, 1979. All clubs in the area will be notified so that there will be no conflicting activities or races on that date providing they co-operate. {RdF - a letter from Mayor Ianelli's office, dated 15 June 79, set the date for the second race as Saturday, July 7, 1979. Since then, the Mayor's Cup Race has traditionally been held on the first Saturday following the Fourth of July week.}

 

"Norm Lawrance gave a financial report as to how we stand and how we made out with the Mayor's Cup Race. A full report can be obtained from Norm at your request. He also made recommendations for next year ....

 

"The problem of a club house was brought up again. Norm spoke to Walt Cronin about this and he seems a little more willing to discuss the idea of the Sailing Club using the club house at Dock & Coal as a meeting place. It was suggested that we set up a proposal and and contract to present to Mr. Cronin. Norm Lawrance and Bill Empsall will take care of this. If this does come about our memberships for next year may be divided up so that we have a racing membership for those only interested in racing and a full membership which would include the use of the club house. A further decision will be made when we hear about the club house. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Altman, Secretary, VSC

 

Valcour Sailing Club Meeting - August 10,1978

Members Present: Dave McDowell, Norm Lawrance, Marguerite & Peter Eisinger, Tim Byrne, Judy & Tom Harwood, Dave Gorman, Joanne & Joe Garcia, Nancy & Howard Altman

 

      "The first issue on the agenda was a letter of resignation from Hilton Dana stating his views regarding a recent decision by the Race Committee and Executive Committee that he (Hilton) must move up to the Racing Class next year. Dave McDowell will send an answer to Hilton Dana and hopefully the problem can be corrected.

      "In the form of an executive order by Dave McDowell, a motion was made that all decisions regarding the working and racing class next year will be held in abeyance until our annual banquet meeting at which time the Race Committee will present their recommendations and everyone can vote on them. {RdF - Throughout its twenty year history, the records of the Valcour Sailing Club reflect an egalitarian bent for including the preferences of all of its dues-paying members. As in all recreational organizations, the work of administration flows to those who will do it. My own three year experience in the Club has been that if one desires to get involved and make changes, all one has to do is volunteer for the background work that goes into any successfull organization.}

      "We are still having problems getting all our trophies for the Mayor's Cup Race from {the business furnishing them}. .... Dave McDowell will get in touch with Ed Goodrich regarding a half page newspaper ad that we would like to have put in the Press Republican thanking all sponsors and participants in the Mayor's Cup Race.

      "As regard to the proposed change in MORC ratings based on the new MORC rule, it was decided that we would write to see if there was a new up to date print out available. If none is available we will stay with our present ratings for all boats and change to the new rule next year. We will also request information about becoming a MORC station next year to see if this would be to our advantage.

      "A letter to LCRC will be sent giving them our format for our Ile St. Michele Week-end. There will be trophies for the week-end. Saturday's race will be scored under PHRF (LCRC) and MORC because trophies will be based on combined results of Saturday and Sunday. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Altman, Secretary

 

General Membership Meeting - October 19, 1978

Members Present: Dave McDowell, Harry Walcoff, Alice Connors, Bill Rowe, Norm Lawrance, Skip Berry, Joe & Joanna Garcia, Tim Byrne, Dave Gorman, Peter Eisinger, Judy Belcher, Howard & Nancy Altman

      "The first item on the agenda was the treasurer's report ... Bill Rowe made a motion that we raise our membership dues to $35.00 next year because of inflation and the rising cost of postage, etc. ... {passed}

      "Next was the Race Committee report given by Howard Altman explaining the revised final standings for our Sunday Series and Wednesday night series. The main difficulty which prompted these revisions was the fact that many members who were "Officer of the Day" were not really sure what information should be recorded and how. It was recommended that next year we have a basic policy for everyone to go by who does OD a race and that this policy or instructions plus extra scoring sheets be included in our club's annual booklet. Another problem brought up about Wednesday night races was that many boats are not in the water before June and therefore we should not start our Wednesday Night Series before then and because the days get shorter after Labor Day Weekend it was felt that there should be no more Wednesday Night Races after this time. If extra races were desired then maybe some could be run on a Saturday.

      "MORC Station Information: After lengthy discussion as to pros and cons for MORC vs PHRF a decision was made on the basis of what would be best for our club. A motion was made by Dave Gorman that for next year we race under PHRF. The motion was passed with the majority present voting in favor of this motion. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Altman, Secretary

 

RESULTS OF SERIES RACING - 1978

 

SUNDAY SERIES

Racing: 1st CRISIS, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd VALCOUR VI

Working Sail: 1st SELENA, 2nd NIMUE' III, 3rd PAPILLION

 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT Series

1st CRISIS, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd ESPERANCE

 

PARTING SHOTS ON 1978 ACTIVITIES

 

      Certain years in the history of the Valcour Sailing Club can, in retrospect, be recognized as 'water-shed' years for the changes and new directions that occurred in the Club. 1978 was certainly a landmark year in many respects. As the record indicates, most prominent was the move to the PHRF handicap system of rating which remains the standard today {1987} for both the LCRC and the VSC. That year also marks the first running of the Mayor's Cup Race which has been described by many as Lake Champlain's premier race in terms of its participation and prestige. The racing schedule had evolved from the weekly Saturday Knockabout/Snipe races of 1966 into a full schedule of Club and LCRC races that is recognizable in format to the new member today.         All of the Special Event Races, except the Peter Eisinger Memorial Cup Race - added in 1980, had established traditions. The Sunday and Wednesday Series were the norm.

In the LCRC, the Valcour had long been the opening race of it's series, with the Ile St. Michel added in 1975. By 1978, VSC boats were competing and winning LCRC races in all classes except Class A. VSC members were not only active in LCRC activites, they were at the very core of its planning and administration. One needs merely to examine the record to see what members guided the Valcour Sailing Club to the mature on-going institution it is today. Essentially, the die had been cast by 1978. The pattern of yearly activities in the Valcour Sailing Club would be refined as new faces and new ideas came to the forefront. But tradition was the greatest force.

 

There are a few activities of the Valcour Sailing Club which, in 1978, continued to defy lasting solution. The business of the committe boat, while attacked in many innovative ways down the years, seemed to resist effective solution over several seasons. The perennial search for a shoreside facility, with which to focus social activities, was illusive. And the question of a boardboat/Jr. Sailing Program, while attempted several times, again proved to be linked to the enthusiasm of just a few active members for just a season or two. Even today, these three areas of Club interest resist incorporation into the long-term traditions and efforts of the Club. One aspect of the Valcour Sailing Club seems clear. If all of its members are dedicated sailors, there is little human inventory left over to address concerns that do not involve on-the-water activities. The inclusion of power boaters, as was the case when the VSC was the sailing group within the Plattsburgh Yacht Club, would provide a broader base of interested members with which broader objectives could be addressed. It would appear that our sister club in Shelburne, with about a century of tradition, includes a greater diversity of people with an intest in marine recreation. Having members with a thirty to forty foot power boat extends the realm of possibilities.

 

LATE WINTER AND SPRING ACTIVITIES IN THE VSC

 

Winter can seem like an eternity to the avid sailor; watching the ice go out of Lake Champlain is a favorite spectator sport for those living near the Lake. Down through the years there are many examples, in the records of the VSC, of efforts to ease the burden of not having the boat in the water. One example of this is a reference to a "mid-winter picnic" in the VSC Bulletin of February 8, 1981.

 

GREETINGS TO ALL!!!

 

Spring, believe it or not, is just six weeks away, and VSC is celebrating with its first-ever Mid-Winter Picnic Sunday, Feb. 22nd at David and Mimi McDowell's home. Time is 1:00 p.m. Come by foot, car, snowmobile, or iceboat. Fun for all - skating, cross-country skiing, broomball, fantasizing about windshifts, whatever ... Plenty of food, including fresh Clam Chowder, and enought anti-freeze to cure any worries. Soda for the kids, too. Everybody welcome; bring new members. ..... Cheers - hope to see everyone at the party ... Tim Byrne, Secretary

 

And from a VSC Bulletin of February, 1983, is this invitation to ease the woes of cabin fever in the North Country.

 

WINTER FROLICS (at the) Walling Homestead - Cross-country skiing, hot tub, video games, music, frivolity, and fun for the entire family! Bring skiis, games, and whatever you need to entertain yourself and others (Yes, David - that means bagpipe music). A meal will be provided (if it's not your mother .... it must be Bob) at a meager fee of $5 per adult, children free! The fun begins at three and will last until the bell tolls for you. Please let the Rear and Mrs. know if you are coming and how many of "youse" there be ....

 

Included in the foregoing announcement was a map with detailed directions for the chart-reading skippers and crews that included a partial section of Lake Champlain; reference to Garden Island included this 'Notice to Mariners:' "Take Note Tom, if you end up here you've gone the wrong way!" What an excellent source of information all this could provide for a Valcour Sailing Club trivia game: Who was the "Bob" doing the cooking at the Winter Frolics of 1983? What is the story behind "Tom" and Garden Island? What is another name for Day Point? (answer: Bag Pipe Villa). For whom did the bell last toll? (answer: only the Rear & Mrs know the answer to that one.) Anyone for trivia?

      Apparently the Winter Frolic in February did not satiate members appetites for diversion from what must have been a long winter that year. On April 1st, Roger Patnode advised the members in a VSC Bulletin that:

 

The ice is out, the days are longer, and the urge to launch returns. An exciting sailing season is taking shape as the racing, cruising, and party schedule gets set. .... On April 16 at 8 pm "SHOWBOAT" will take place at Howard Johnson's. This will be a night of entertainment, dancing, frolic, and fun with a fashion show, drawing for a Patrica Reynolds' painting, cash bar, and hors d'oeuvres to benefit the YMCA.

 

 

LE SACRE DU PRINTEMPS

 

      There is a certain "ritual of spring" evident in many late winter and early spring Bulletins of the VSC. To the casual reader, they may not seem immediately evident. But if one reads many years of Bulletins in a short time, the pattern becomes clear. There are forces of nature afoot in the North Country as the vernal equinox approaches - forces that are only now becoming better understood for the effects they may have on the sailor's subconscious mind. While not overtly documented in VSC records, patterns nevertheless emerge, and seem to approach a crescendo by about April First. For example, these.

      Notice that frolicking is traditional in the Valcour Sailing Club; there are winter frolics, spring frolics, and a few fall frolics. But not so much frolicking in the summer, according to the records. All in all, the VSC sailors are a rather frolicsome group, especially when their boats are not in the water. The best place to frolic during the off-season is on one's boat, mounted, in one's cradle of course; but the off-season weather being what it is in the North Country, one usually has to do their frolicking at someone's home, or some other warm place. Regardless of all this, it is untrue that sailors of the Valcour Sailing Club would rather frolic than sail. Frolicking just seems to be the next best alternative.

      Another tradition in the Club is that of the Commodore, or the Secretary, or whoever is writing the Bulletins, to properly advise each member, no latter than April First, that the "days are getting longer." This seems to be the key stimulant in awakening sailors from their long winter of frolicking and serves to remind them of the need to start their bottom preparation. One can only imagine how late the sailing season would be if this ritual was not kept. One ancillary piece of information, that "the ice is out", or some advisory to that effect, is also provided; but there seems to be no compelling evidence that this adds any impetus above and beyond being advised of the lengthening days.

{RdF - actually, a better stimulus is to visit your favorite competitor at his place of business, preferably at his busiest time - say when he's doing his taxes, and ever so casually mention that your new suit of mylar/kevlar sails are almost finished, and the boatyard is doing a really great job in fairing your keel and spraying your new bottom paint. If he hasn't done anything about boat preparation yet, that is bound to get him thinking about it. For really difficult situations, you can add a muffled reference to that additional tweleve seconds the handicappers have finally given you, as you walk out. Any skipper who does not respond to that kind of stimulant is not going to be a threat to anyone out on the course, come summer.}

 

Another tradition in the Valcour Sailing Club, usually evident in the brochures handed out each spring to encourage members to pay their dues early, and recruit new members, is a reference to lower dues for "non-boat owners." Not ever having been advised that I owned a "non-boat", I have never taken the opportunity to pay less. But after much reflection on the sailing characteristics of my first sailboat, I am now convinced that that lower rate must have applied to people like me. The current Club Treasurer advises, however, that overpaid dues are not refundable for previous years. Since it usually takes skippers a year or so to discover that they are owners of a non-boat, the VSC has not lost any money to irate skippers asking for a refund. But if anyone ever comes up with a firm definition for a non-boat, like one that rates 219 sec/mi but sails more like 360, we surely will have to rethink the dues structure for non-boat owners.

 

RESULTS OF SERIES RACING - 1979-1982

1979

Sunday Series

1st LOLIGO, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd OMNIVOROUS

Wed. Nite

1st WITCH DOCTOR, 2nd OBSESSION, 3rd OMNIVOROUS

1980

Sunday Series

Class A 1st WITCH DR, 2nd SHILLELAGH, 3rd SPIRIT OF VALCOUR

Class B 1st TRANQUILITY, 2nd FIFTY BUCKS, 3rd NIMUE' III

Wed. Nite 1st WITCH DR, 2nd OBSESSION, 3rd SHILLELAGH

1981

Sunday Series

Class A 1st OBSESSION, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd OMNINVOROUS

Class B 1st ZIG ZAG, 2nd AEOLUS, 3rd CLOSE ENCOUNTERS

Wednesday 1st OBSESSION, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd SHILLELAGH

1982

Sunday Series

Class A 1st CHAOUSAROU, 2nd WITCH DOCTOR, 3rd SHILLELAGH

Class B 1st AEOLUS, 2nd NIMUE' III, 3rd FALCON

Wednesday Nite

Class A 1st OBSESSION, 2nd SHILLELAGH, 3rd SPIRIT OF VALCOUR

Class B 1st NIMUE' III, 2nd (Busher), 3rd HALF MOON

 

ANOTHER SURVEY OF MEMBERS - 1983

      Several surveys of members, usually conducted using a 2 or 3 page questionnaire, have been done down through the years. The return rate on these surveys, when compared to the roster of members for the year of the survey, is rather poor. Usually done in the off-season by some 'eager-beaver' who is commited to the egalitarian principles of American life, the results usually cure the poll taker of his/her illusions. Although it is difficult or impossible to identify the individuals responsible for these surveys, analysis of the results would make it a safe bet that the same individual never conducted them twice. There is an old Japanese saying that applies here: "He who climbs Mount Fuji once, is a wise man; he who climbs it twice is a fool."

      In 1983, a four page questionnaire was sent out to the 1982 membership; the secretary's records show that 18 were returned with at least one question answered other than "no opinion." Judging from the results of other surveys, that year had an excellent response. But the responses were rather ambiguous in some cases. A sample is given here. (Survey was done by Claudia Hornby)

 

"The Club should have weekly Wednesday night races."

      5-yes, 5-no, 3-no opinion, 5-did not answer

 

"Should the Club plan an additional weekend mini-series like Isle St. Michele?"

      6-yes, 3-no, 5-no opinion, 4-did not answer

 

"If yes {to above question} what type of race would you prefer?"

      Responses:

I liked the clambake part best!

Cruise race where you stay overnight somewhere and then race the second leg on Sunday."

"Whatever"

No opinion"

Similar to Mallets Bay Race Weekend

Same format as Isle St. Michelle"

 

"Should the Club try to acquire a clubhouse?"

      9-yes, 6-no, 0-no opinion, 3-did not answer

 

"I plan to participate in Club cruises next season."

      8-yes, 2-no, 2-undecided, 6-did not answer

 

"I would like to see the Club plan _____ cruises next season."

      8-more, 0-fewer, 5-the same number

 

"If a Club cruise and race occurred on the same date, I would:"

      6-race, 4-cruise, 0-stay home, 1-be upset

 

"Claudia - great questionnaire - but a few problems - many of the things we'd like to do are impossible because of our business or professional schedule. From what I perceive as the average person's extra sailing commitments, I would favor more Wednesday nights, less Sundays, more cruises. Dave {McDowell}"

 

KEEPING THE RACE COMMITTEE ON THEIR TOES

      From time to time the Race Committee's planning efforts are met with something less than full approval by racing skippers of the Club. Courses may not meet with everyone's expectations, starting sequences are questioned, or time limits criticized. One example found in the records for 1982 was a letter to the Race Committee Chairman by Kjell Dahlen who has been known to read the Club Yearbook carefully; he does not name his boats OBSESSION without reason. On June 1st, he wrote:

 

Dear Tim:

 

Today I received the 1982 Valcour Sailing Club Yearbook.

      At the end of last year's season, it was my understanding that some of the race courses would be changed because of safety hazards. I saw that the race courses are listed identically for 1982 as in 1981.

      I request that the following courses be changed: {Following was a detailed mark by mark list of 6 courses.}

      I also request that two courses be added: {Following was a detailed mark by mark description of courses.}

      I do not object to postponing the first Wednesday series race and the Commodore's Cup since many boats are not ready for racing; however, it is unfair to postpone races without proper notification of racers of this postponement. I hope that we will be notified of the new dates as soon as possible.

      We have not yet received a schedule for the Officers of the Day for the 1982 races. I hope this will be available soon.

      Last fall, you mentioned that you would inquire with the Coast Guard regarding the feasibility of placing a permanent racing mark for Cumberland Head. I hope this is progressing well and that we will have this racing mark this season.

      Yours sincerely, Kjell Dahlen"

 

      The foregoing illustrates the interest and input that the Race Committee can expect if they do not attend to every detail in the racing schedule. Also, skippers with boats that have higher draft requirements, after a grounding or two, become leary of courses that incorporate marks around shoals. It is a maxim in yachting that if your draft exceeds your depth at any given moment, your sailboat quickly becomes a land vehicle. Dr.Kjell Dahlen, of late, has become the Club's expert on this phenomena. His pioneering work in this area has led to safer courses for all the boats of the VSC fleet.

 

OFF-SEASON PLANING 1982-83

      Records of the Valcour Sailing Club for the years 1979-81 could not be found. It is safe to assume, according to several members active at that time, that the Club continued its activities much in the same pattern that had been established by 1978. In 1980, members of the Club were saddened by the accidental death of Dr. Peter Eisinger who was one of the Cub's most active and competitive racers. Immediately that spring, the "Peter Eisinger Memorial Race" was instituted as a special event normally held on the first Sunday in August. Also several members recall that 1980 saw a resurgence in cruising activity among the VSC fleet.

      Records for the off-season planing in 1982-83 detailed several areas of effort in the Valcour Sailing Club at that time. Portions of that record are given below and they are instructive on many issues. Note that a recurring problem in the VSC is not agreement on what has to be done but rather the problem of "institutional memory" or the ability to set up on-going mechanisms which survive changing people on the Executive Committee over the years.

      Much effort, in 1982-83, was expended in what seems to be putting the VSC "back on track" were it had been in 1978. Many of the off-season activities of the VSC are routine and traditional; the Club each year must produce a Schedule of Events, a Yearbook, possibly new courses, an agenda of meetings, social events for the spring, summer, and fall, and the normal administrative functions of record keeping (meetings and race results, particularly), insurance, etc. Possibly, a "Standard Operating Procedure" (SOP) for the Valcour Sailing Club, as used in the U.S. Navy, would be appropriate to outline for the Commodore and the Executive Committee those routine tasks that must be addressed, when they should be accomplished, and by whom they are accomplished. David McDowell recalled, in 1987, this little advisory:

"These are the laws of the Navy,

 unwritten and varied they be.

 And he who is wise will observe them,

 Going down in his ship to sea."

 

Executive Committee Meeting: "met at the home of Commodore Kjell Dahlen on 8 December 1982; present were Howard Altman, David Bruner, Kjell Dahlen, Clark Drumm, Claudia Hornby, Tom Light, and Roger Patnode.

".... David Bruner reported on the financial state of the Club and indicated that several separate accounts would be consolidated into (one account). Total funds ... $2,340 including the check to be received shortly from the Mayor's Cup Committee. (He) suggested that the Club open a savings account or certificate with any funds in excess of needed operating funds. (Tabled pending further consideration)

      "Winter Meetings: Extensive discussion centered on the need for continued Club activity during the winter months. Claudia Hornby moved .... that the VSC have monthly meetings during the non-sailing months to include a brief business meeting, an informational program, and time for informal socializing. (Passed unanimously) Commodore Dahlen will arrange a speaker to discuss the general topic of sail trim (for the next meeting).

      "The where abouts of the present by-laws is uncertain. The long-time members will be contacted in an attempt to obtain copies. Commodore Dahlen directed the Secretary to write to the USYRU to obtain sample by-laws as a guideline for review and updating of the present by-laws.

      "The yearbook should be ready for print by late February or early March. A racing schedule to be included should be ready by that time.

      "Claudia Hornby, with input from the Exec. Comm., will develop an opinion and suggestion poll to be mailed to the general membership ... Results will be used by the Exec. Comm. to plan for the coming year.

      "Past records of meetings and race results are incomplete. The Secretary was directed in a motion made by David Bruner, seconded by Claudia Hornby, and passed unanimously, to obtain whatever supplies and hardware necessary to provide a permanent file for minutes, reports, racing results, etc. Commodore Dahlen and Past Commodore Altman will provide the Secretary with copies of whatever past records they have to begin to develop a record.

{RdF - see my comments at the end of this chapter in "PARTING SHOTS ON TWENTY YEARS OF THE VSC"}

      "The Commodore will apply to the Coast Guard for permission to hold races during the 1983 racing season. The Race Comm. will provide the O.D. with a work sheet to record racing times.  Computation of the results will be the responsibility of the (Race) Comm.; results will be provided by the Race Comm. to the Press (Republican) for publication. Records will be maintained by the Secretary. The Race Comm. will begin work as soon as possible on the racing schedule and assignments of the O.D. Once O.D. is assigned to a specific member it will be the members responsibility and duty to either be present or find a suitable substitute and inform the Race Comm. of the change. The Race Comm. will update the name plates on all Cub trophies.

      "Commodore Dahlen has discussed with the Coast Guard the feasibility of placement of a racing mark to be maintained by the VSC. The Exec. Comm. in a unanimous decision decided to pursue application for such a mark. The Commodore will so proceed.

      "The Race Comm. was directed to request permission from Dock and Coal to place an enclosed permanent bulletin board in a prominent place to facilitate club communication during the sailing season. Pending permission the Race Comm. will construct such a board.

      "The Commodore's Flag and cap were received by Kjell Dahlen. The whereabouts of the other flags is unknown.

Respectfully submitted, Roger E. Patnode, Secretary"

 

Subsequently, Roger Patnode wrote to the USYRU indicating that the VSC was rewriting its by-laws and "would appreciate any model by-laws and organizational or instructional material you might be able to provide."

 

The January meeting of the VSC Executive Committee was held in January, 1983; those present were Kjell Dahlen, Tom Light, Bob Smith, Claudia Hornby, and Roger Patnode.

      "A letter was received from the USYRU with model by-laws for small sailing clubs. The Commodore and Tom Light will review the by-laws and draft a proposed document to be presented to the Executive Committee for review.

      "A letter from USYRU outlining a liability insurance policy was received. The Executive Comm. felt that the club should be protected by such a policy.  The policy extends coverage during any racing activity to officers of the club, officials of a particular race, and committee members for $6,000,000 liability and $600,000 legal defense at a rate of $270 per year. The secretary will contact Mr. Alan Booth to see if such a policy is indicated and if this is a feasible charge.

      "Frequency of meetings should be decided after a membership poll. Tentative meetings will be: February - Wallings ski party; March - new member recruitment; April - Spring banquet; May - rules clinic.

      "Racing Mark: Application has been submitted and is being reviewed by the Sherriff's Dept. at present. Racing Schedule: To be completed by the Commodore and Race Committee ASAP. Alternate Wednesdays may be used for organized practice sessions.

      "New business: Statements will be mailed to all new and old members for dues payable not later than April 30, 1983. Members will receive one copy of the Yearbook, with an optional second copy at their request. Dues will remain the same as the previous year - $45 full member, $20 associate member. Dave Bruner and Roger Patnode will compile the yearbook. An agenda was prepared for the January 21st meeting at Howard Johnson's.

Respectfully Submitted, Roger Patnode.

      "The general membership of the Valcour Sailing Club met at Howard Johnson's on 21 January 1983 .... A short business meeting was held. Commodore Kjell Dahlen informed the membership that:

1. By-laws were being reviewed and rewritten.

2. An insurance policy is being considered for liability purposes.

3. Membership dues will remain the same as last year.

4. A racing mark application has been submitted and is currently under consideration by the Sherriff's Department.

Joe Garcia raised a question of a Sailing program weekend to be sponsored by the Valcour Sailing Club. It was decided that it is too late to organize such a program for this year, by that the Executive Committee should make plans for such a program for 1984. Mr. Tom Russel presented talks on "Tuning the Hull and Rigging" and "Developing a Winning Attitude." Both talks were informative and well received.  Respectfully submitted, Roger Patnode, Secretary VSC"

 

"The Executive Committee of the VSC met on 2 February 1983 at the home of the Commodore, Kjell Dahlen .... Members present included the Commodore, Tom Light, Dave Bruner, Claudia Hornby, and Roger Patnode.

      "The Rear Commodore has scheduled a Winter Party for 27 February at the Wallings. A Notice will be mailed to all members and prospective members.

      "On April 15, ... the Spring Banquet and membership recruitment will be held. Program will consist of a movie to be arranged by Bob Smith. Yearbooks will be available there to members who have paid their dues.

      "Membership Poll: Responses were received and several ideas were used to plan activities for the coming year. Issues not subsequently addressed in the rest of the meeting included a consensus that the club should have both a Junior Program and a sailboard class. The majority of responders felt meetings should be bi-monthly year round, and have a cocktail hour, business, session, and educational session (not necessarily in that order).

      "Dave Bruner will order Burgees for members of the club and officers as needed. They will be ordered from the World Flags Manufacturing Co. ...

      "The schedule for sailing club events for the summer of 1983 was approved. Assignments for O.D. will be made by the Race Committee. Club cruise dates and destinations were set. Additional fun races were scheduled. A second Wednesday series will occur following the early summer, first Wednesday series.

      "Members indicated on the survey an interest in acquiring a clubhouse. A committee headed by Howard Altman to include interested members will investigate various alternatives.

Respectfully submitted, Roger Patnode

 

"A meeting of the VSC Executive Committee was held on April 6, 1983; all members were present. Discussion of the following topics followed.

      "Showboat" a benefit for the YMCA will take place on April 16. It will feature entertainment, dancing, fashion, and a raffle for a Patrica Reynolds painting. The VSC will lend its name and support to help promote the benefit. It will be held at H.J.

      "Spring Sailing Banquet will be held on May 6. Bob Smith will seek bids from area restaurants for a banquet. A film will be shown. ...

      "Mayor's Cup plans are underway. Kjell Dahlen will be O.D. assisted by Tom Light. OBSESSION will be the committee boat and will require only ten persons aboard to administer the race. Tim Byrnes will do the ratings. Each boat will carry a colored flag to designate its class. Tom will check the marks and anchors to assure readiness. A separate Protest Committee headed by David McDowell will be appointed. Howard Altman will obtain a reimbursement for the "start-up" funds contributed by VSC to the prior Mayor's Cup race and not returned. He will also secure an adequate supply of gunshot shells and replace the ones borrowed from David McDowell. A Crazy Craft race will be held but will be the responsibility of the PDA {Plattsburgh Development Association} and people who arrange the land based activities."

 

"A meeting of the VSC Executive Committee was held on April 18, 1983. Members present included Kjell Dahlen, Howard Altman, Tom Light, David Bruner, Claudia Hornby, and Roger Patnode. Discussions and actions included:

      "Mailings have been sent to all present and prospective members regarding dues. PHRF forms will be sent soon.

      "Racing schedule dates and assignments were reviewed. Schedules and a letter from the Race Committee explaining responsibilities of the O.D. will be sent to members.

      "Cruises have been scheduled as well. Hornbys and Connors have agreed to direct them.

      "The PHRF board is a separate entity form the LCRC and must maintain its own budget. There is a possibility that each boat will be charged a $5.00 rating fee. This is being protested by the Vermont clubs who want to maintain a flat club rate fee.      If an individual fee is to be charged this year the amount will be paid by VSC from dues charged for the 1983 year. Next year's dues may need to be adjusted.

      "USYRU insurance covering racing liability is the most economical insurance. Coverage seems appropriate and adequate. Tom Light moved and Claudia Hornby seconded a motion to obtain the insurance from USYRU. The motion passed. Kjell Dahlen will complete the necessary forms.

      "Spring Banquet will be on May 6 at the Howard Johnsons. Details will be sent to all the members. Publicity will consist of an article in the Press and the Champlainer. All prospective members are encouraged to attend. Respectfully, Roger Patnode"

 

Subsequently, a letter went out to members on April 18th regarding the new PHRF forms indicating that "it is absolutely necessary to complete the enclosed form as we cannot use the forms from last year. We cannot automatically roll-over your ratings from prior years." In that same mailing to members, Tom Light, the Race Committee Chairman, advised the racing skippers that:

      "The Executive Committee has made a few changes in the race format this year. Be sure to review the information enclosed in the 1983 Yearbook. Take note of the revised courses and numbers. Destroy all previous course information as new numbers have been assigned.

      "There will be one Sunday series this year and two Wednesday series. The Wednesday "A" series will consist of six races with two throwouts and "B" series will consist of five races with one throw-out. For all Wednesday night series it is the responsibility of the O.D. to fire the Class A warning gun promptly at 6:50 P.M. and the Class B warning gun at 7:00 P.M.

      "The enclosed list of O.D. assingments is based upon the results of the poll sent out to members earlier this year. It is the responsibility of club members to fulfill the assigned O.D. duties. Failure to do so will result in elimination from consideration for any awards as per club rules. {Additional information re the O.D. kit was provided.}

      "Standard race results reports will be included with the O.D. kit. Please complete the form, sign, and return to the Race Chairman at the conclusion of the race. A VSC bulletin board has been installed on the deck of Dock and Coal. Race results (and general announcements) will be posted there by the Race Chairman. The Executive Committee has designated certain races as "fun" races as noted in the schedule. Further details will follow.

      "It is requested that whenever possible the O.D. should take photos or slides of the race as this will help make an interesting (embarassing) Awards Banquet. Happy Sailing and best wishes for a successful racing season! Respectfully, Tom Light"

 

On June 12, 1983, Commodore Kjell Dahlen sent a VSC Bulletin to the membership regarding "Racing Rules and Information." Prominently featured was instruction on "setting up a starting line" wherein the first leg of the course should be "perpendicular to the wind. In a reaching start, make the line so there is no doubt as to which direction one should cross the line." Diagrams were provided to illustrate the instructions. Also of concern was the finish line, especially one which was ambiguous to the finishing boat {a dangerous situation in many instances}. The Bulletin ended with an invitation to skippers to attend a Rules Clinic at the Commodore's home on June 21st.

 

THE BURTON ISLAND RENDEZVOUS

 

Making reference to an apparently previously sucessful cruise to Burton Island State Park, a VSC Bulletin of July 15, 1983 included this information:

      "Once again this year Valcour Sailing Club will sponsor a weekend rendezvous at Burton Island. The Park has a mooring area and dockage for sailboats and powerboats, a beach, picnic area, playground, camping, and nature trails.

      "Dockage rates are 45 cents per foot and include water and electricity. The service dock provides gasoline, oil, and free pumpout service but no diesel {fuel}. There are campsites near the harbor area. ... There are showers (25 cents) and restrooms and a small store carries ice, charcoal, and a few supplies.

      "Charcoal grills and picnic tables are near the docks, so bring your cook-out gear, frisbee, sailboards, and beach toys for a weekend of family fun. Plan to arrive early afternoon on Saturday for best chance at dock space. A small anchoring area is located just of the marina. If you plan to participate or would like more information call the Hornbys ....."

 

WRAPPING UP THE 1983 SEASON

 

      This year reflects, in terms of the records produced, an intensive effort to return to the institutionalized VSC of 1978. The minutes of the Executive Committee have been reproduced here in great minuteness to illustrate the volume of tasks with which the Executive Committee must deal in its off-season planning for a successfull season. Two overriding functions of the Valcour Sailing Club, sailboat racing and socializing, require a great deal of coordination to meet membership expectations. Also requiring a good deal of planning are the Club cruises and on-shore activities aimed at increasing the skipper's proficiency. Key to a successfull season is the leadership of the Commodore and the support of his staff, particularly the Club Secretary.

 

The last meeting of the 1983 Executive Committee was in October; extracts of the meeting are:

      "Total funds presently stand at $2,971. The VSC has a tax free number. Some monies will be transfered to an interest bearing account. The boat fund {committee boat} was transfered into the general treasury after approval of a motion made by Dave Bruner, seconded by Roger Patnode and passed.

      "The awards Banquent will be held at Howard Johnson's on Nov. 18 .... Members will be encouraged to bring photos or slides for a "picture-soap." A budget of $650 was approved for award trophies and the Vice-Commodore will select such trophies.

      "Dave Bruner noted that the decision to decrease the number of mailings and not have meetings during the summer led to a lack of communications and momentum during this year. A consensus existed that more mailings should be sent out next year.

      "Claudia Hornby made a motion to send a gift certificate to Bill and Bunny Rowe, Dave and Mimi McDowell, and Grif and Betsy Walling in appreciation for use of their homes for social events during the past year.

      "By-laws have been located and transferred to Robert Smith (1984 VSC Secretary). Roger Patnode, Secretary

 

RECORD KEEPING REACHES NEW HIGH IN 1984

 

      The 1984 season in the Valcour Sailing Club, judging from its records, established a corporate style of conducting business during the planning months of winter and early spring. Under the guidance of Commodore Katie White, the first woman commodore of the Club, the Secretary - Bob Smith - kept records which could serve as a model for any organization. Organized in a three-ring binder under tabs (Minutes, Communications, Mailings, Race Results, and Membership), an entire chapter of social history of the VSC could be written for that year alone. In fact, the records are almost intimidating in terms of their great detail. In a larger sense, the Orwellian year of 1984 established a standard for record keeping that was evident in 1985 and 1986 by Kathy Duley and Katie White respectively, VSC Secretaries for those years. Only in 1987, when the VSC entered the computer age completely, when Dan Jerry started to bring his Apple MacIntosh to meetings, was the style to change.

      Race results in 1984 were being done on David White's computer, as was the VSC yearbook by Brian White in 1984 and 1985. In 1986, race results were done on Dan Jerry's MacIntosh and Laser Printer, while the Yearbook was done by René du Fort on his ancient computer - the same one used to write "Not Far From Land". The 1987 VSC Yearbook was transmitted electronically to Dan Jerry's MacIntosh Plus, formatted, and a master printed on Apple LaserPrinter and subsequently reduced and printed.

      Being established as an experiment in 1987 is the Valcour Sailing Club Computer Bulletin Board where members will have access from their terminals to all the information in the VSC's records and current activities to include current race results and planned activities. Computers and hi-tech printers are becomming the norm in the Valcour Sailing Club in the late eighties. But like any tool, computers can only assist in recording, transmitting, and exchanging information; information is one of the main commodities of the Valcour Sailing Club.

      All of this is in the way of an "apologia" for possible inferences which may follow from reading the brief extracts which are included here; anyone interested in much greater detail can examine the actual records for themselves.

 

OFF-SEASON PLANING 1983-84

 

Only brief extracts of the off-season planing are included here; the records are voluminous and in great detail. Certain concerns of the VSC's Executive Committee, which reflect a desire to improve on the previous season's activities, are highlighted.

 

"Minutes of Executive Meeting, January 4, 1984

      called to order by the Commodore, Katie White. Old Business: .... Discussion ensued about not getting a gift certificate to Dave & Mimi McDowell, Bill & Bunny Rowe, and Grif & Betsy Wallin. Treasurer was directed to purchase three $50 gift certificates for the {name of a resturant} in Lake Placid. They will be presented at the next general session of the VSC.

      "Kjell Dahlen {past Commodore} mentioned a need to improve mailings in 1984. He suggested a meeting every two months during the fall, winter, and spring. He announced that Dave McDowell will be Commodore of the LCRC. Roger Patnode's comments {past Secretary} were made by Bob Smith {Secretary} - the Club needs more cruising activities such as routine Saturday night raft-ups with the race following on Sunday morning. Dave McDowell suggested the use of a Keg Boat to encourage more parties.

            "Dave Bruner suggested that the Treasurer be responsible for picking up the mail, then distributing it among the officers. It was also suggested that the Treasurer fill the role of the membership Secretary in recording all paid membership dues and developing the corresponding membership list.

            "Tom Light, Vice Commodore & Race Committee Chairman, recommended a decrease in the Isle St. Michel Weekend Trophies. It was suggested that it would be broken down to two classes only instead of five classes. Also, that the LCRC on Saturday be scored by two different methods: one for the LCRC ... and the other for the VSC. This would allow us to combine the two VSC races to determine the winner for the Isle St. Michel weekend ..... It was also brought up that Dave White should try to reach a decision on how many races one must race in order to get a trophy. Last summer, a boat got third place in the Sunday series after participating in the last race of the entire season.

      "Dave McDowell gave a report from the LCRC that included a trial period to be set up to test the reversal of the normal starting sequence and extension of its interval. VSC will adopt this new 15 minute sequence with order of classes: D, J-24, C, B, and A. It was also recommended by Dave that the X-Ray flag (recall flag) would be flown along with the sounding and the hailing of the boat's numbers when any boat crosses the start line prematurely. This has been adopted by the other LCRC clubs and was adopted by VSC.

 

Minutes of the General Membership Meeting, February,1984

Commodore Katie White introduced the officers of the 1984 season. The Commodore would like to encourage a cover design contest for this year's VSC Yearbook. ....

      "Club House Search Committee ... to search out the potential site for purchase of a Club House on the Lake. It would not only be used by the Club for meetings, social get-togethers but it may also have enough Lake frontage property ... to have moorings set up.

      "The Bylaws Review Committee (Kjell Dahlen, Dave Bruner, Ed Goodrich) was set up for the purposes of reviewing and rewriting the bylaws of the VSC.

      "A committee to explore the possibility of setting up a VSC Youth Group: the purpose of this group would be to encourage sailing among the children, teaching them about boat handling skills, racing tactics, water safety, etc. The committee was formed at the suggestion of Mike Parsons and he will bear the responsibility of organizing this first meeting. Volunteers for this committee are Mike Parsons, Roger Patnode, Bob Smith, Bill Rowe, the McDowells, Andy Sajor, Peter Hornby, and Kathleen Goodrich.

      "Katie White also tried to set up a table at Bill Rowe's booth {presumably at the Montreal boat show} for the Valcour Sailing Club ... This is to encourage our Canadian friends to participate and join the Club for it's varied activities and also to advance in general the VSC's reputation.

      "The Racing Committee ... has reversed the sequence of the start and the intervals of the start to coincide with the LCRC sequence and intervals. They presented to the general membership the concept of having Class A boats being able to run spinnakers in the Wednesday series and that Class B boats would be allowed to use working sails only. The concept behind this is that most "A" boats have spinnakers and would want to use them based on past experience, while Class B boats are usually sailors who are just getting into racing or are primarily cruisers who would enjoy an occasional race. It was thought that it is important to keep Class B boats with working sails only so that we can encourage as much participation as possible. Motion passed.

      "The 1984 Sailing Club dues will remain the same at $45 for general member and $25 for an associate member. Associate memberships will receive all mailings and be allowed to participate in club functions, would be allowed to skipper a boat in the absence of the general member and be a participant in all Club activities while not actually owning a boat.

      "Rob McDowell made an excellent presentation on sail trim using various overhead projections for head sails and main sails. Our thanks to Rob for the presentation as it was obviously successful ..."

 

Minutes, VSC Executive Meeting: March 16, 1984

      "The Youth Sailing Club report by Rob McDowell: The committee met and decided that it is the most important function for this year to determine the type of boat that should be purchased by any interested individuals or by the Club for eventual use as a Club {junior} racer. Through thorough evaluation of many boats, the Flying Juniors were suggested as a standard boat. Basis for this recommendation is:

A. Vermont clubs use Flying Juniors.

B. They are self-rescuing {in design}.

C. They are big enough for adults.

D. They are fairly dry.

E. Good sail control.

F. Excellent resale value.

G. Numerous {boats are} available on a second hand basis.

The Committee is looking into possible ways of having a boat purchased and donated through a charitable organization which would then let the Club use them and run an instructional program. Another possible way is for people to purchase the boats and then lease them back to the VSC for a set annual fee. It was determined that this years goal should be to, 1: select the boat, 2: inventory the people who would be willing to purchase the boats, 3: an inventory of the interested youth groups interested in learning how to sail.

      "Clubhouse Committee report: The committee met .... and found that there was a property that they were interested in buying that was listed at about $125,000. It had an 8% assumable mortgage of about $85,000 outstanding. The Executive Committee charged the Clubhouse Search Committee to proceed forward to look at the taxes, the new sewer assessment cost, if available, what the insurance for property and liability should be, whether or not the 8% assumable mortgage can be assumed by the Club and if there are any restrictions on who can assume the mortgage. Also, to check with the Health Department on requirements that they may have if we operate this property as a Clubhouse and to check with Bob Sutherland about any particular Adirondack Park Agency requirements. The Search Committee is to report to the April 13th Board Meeting on this ...

      "On a motion by Bob Smith, ... the Executive Committee authorized Attorney {also member of VSC} Andy Edwards to proceed forward and file for a Type B, 'Not-for-profit Membership Corporation.' Passed unanimously

 

VSC Annual Spring Banquet, April 13, 1984

      "Presented to the general membership were various proposals by the Clubhouse Search Committee and a complete analysis of each parcel of land and its strong and weak points. The general membership discussed the various proposals, ways of financing, and membership dues. ... After dinner, further discussion continued and a motion was made by Robert Smith as follows:

      "First, the Valcour Sailing Club should invest between $500 and $1,000 for an assignable option to hold the Valcour View Campsite property so that we can further investigate the feasibility of purchasing the property for a sum not to exceed $80,000 ... The motion carried with 20 voting for, no votes against, and no abstentions.

      "Second, a motion was made and seconded to empower the Executive Committee to initiate the incorporation of the Valcour Sailing Club into a Class B, not for profit membership corporation. Motion was passed unanimously.

 

"Executive Committee Meeting, June 5, 1984

      Present were Katie White, Robert Smith, David White, Donna Drumm, Clark Drumm, Kjell Dahlen, Bill Rowe, Grif Walling, and Jim & Alice Connors.

      "The main topic of conversation was the purchase of the John Boulay property on the north side of the Peru Dock property. A motion by Bill Rowe, seconded by Bob Smith: Bill Rowe issued instructions to offer to purchase John Boulay's property for the sum of $55,000 pending finance; passed unanimously."

 

{RdF - Subsequent records do not mention the outcome of this offer to purchase the property. According to Bunny Rowe, the offer to purchase was accepted by John Boulay who, on checking with his brother who was co-owner, found that his brother had just accepted an offer from another party that was slightly earlier in time than the VSC offer. Making judgements after the fact is not fair to those who worked so hard to realize a long-held dream of Valcour Sailing Club members. But present members should learn from this case that the dynamics of buying Lake Champlain shore property make it imperative that all the mechanisms for acting promptly must be in place prior to the search for property occurs.}

 

OFF-SEASON PLANING 1984-85

At the fall banquet in November, 1984, Robert Smith, the newly elected commodore, outlined two main goals for the 1985 season. Receiving top priority was the issue of the Valcour Sailing Club clubhouse property search that had come so close to fruition that June. He indicated that the Club "should initiate discussions with knowledgeable people of the Lake Champlain Yachting Club and legal counsel on the best way to structure a club that is about ready to purchase land. The goal of this discussion is to form a club that is ready to react quickly to opportunities that present themselves and to structure the VSC in such a way that it is a benefit for all" its members. Secondly, and conincidentally, "aggressively pursue, through the use of licensed real estate brokers, purchase of land that would be suitable for the Valcour Sailing Club." Expanding on this priority, Bob stated that "the Executive Committee believes that the best way to insure the expansion and improvement of ... the Club is for the Club to retain a piece of property to conduct sailing clinics, safety clinics, junior sailing programs, and have a location on the Lake where members of the Club can have families conduct associated family activities."

Commodore Smith then presented Katie and David White with a token of the Club's appreciation for their efforts "not only in their normal duties as Commodore and Vice Commodore, but more so because of the extensive search committee that they started to try to find an appropriate piece of land for the Valcour Sailing Club." Past Commodore Katie White then presented the trophies of the 1984 season ... special event race results are given in Chapter 5.

 

1984 SERIES RACES

 

Sunday Series:

Class A: 1st  OBSESSION, 2nd WITCHCRAFT, 3rd GHOST OF VALCOUR

Class B: 1st  HOT TODDY, 2nd AEOLUS, 3rd FALCON

Wed. Series A:

Class A: 1st  OBSESSION, 2nd WITCHCRAFT, 3rd KRISLIN

Class B: 1st  HOT TODDY, 3rd, DANDY SHELTER, 3rd HUMMER

Wed. Series B:

Class A: 1st  OBSESSION, 2nd CHAOUSAROU II, 3rd WITCHCRAFT

Class B: 1st  EZ DUZ IT 2nd  NIMUE' III, 3rd DANDY SHELTER

 

The off-season planning for 1984-85 kicked off with a meeting of the "Executive Board" on January 7, 1985. Present were Commodore Bob Smith, Rob McDowell, Don & Kathy Duley, Dave Bruner, Allan Booth, Clark Drumm, and Katie White. Bob Smith reported on his meeting with Peter Collins of the LCYC regarding their organization, possible ways of structuring the VSC (i.e. legal details, bylaws, membership, moorings, junior sailing program), insurance, and the need to incorporate the VSC. Andy Edwards reported that the Articles of Incorporation of the Valcour Sailing Club would be ready by the next meeting. Rob McDowell gave a report on the activities of the Race Committee. Details discussed included the need for a race schedule that would appeal to everyone, including cruisers; need for the committee boat to be a power boat; and the revised racing schedule, which included changes in the Wednesday and Sunday Series (particularly the triangle races in Cumberland Bay on Sundays. Don Duley gave the real estate report:

            "On behalf of the Valcour Sailing Club, Don has:

1. Made the visual inspection of the Tierney house, rental units and land on the east side of Route #9 at Valcour.

2. Evaluated the properties worth in comparison to recent comparable sales in the area and found the figure of $85,000 to be a fair price for the Club to offer for the property.

3. Made it clear that he did not evaluate the economic feasibility of this property because he had no data on projected income or expenses.

4. Assuming the club is willing to make the economic commitment, he recommended that the club make an immediate purchase offer because another prospective buyer .... is close to making a deal on the property. He suggested the Club make a purchase offer of $85,000 with a 90 day contingency to obtain financing subject to the approval of the Club's attorney, Andy Edwards. Dave Bruner so moved, Don seconded; the motion was carried.

Subsequently, Allen Booth reported on the Club's insurance posture in detail. Various areas of liability were discussed and recommendations made on how to deal with them.

{RdF - Because of the possible sensitivity involved in detailing insurance coverage here, no further mention will be made of the Club's posture in that area. Suffice to say that this remains an ongoing area that receives annual review, discussion, and decision. Members who want more information on this subject should attend Executive Committee meetings in January and February when insurance for the next season is discussed.}

 

On January 22, the Executive Committee again met to consider an agenda which included, among other things, real estate, insurance, and the status of incorporation. An offer of $85,000 had been presented on subject property by Don Duley but Mrs. Tierney refused the offer saying that she was obligated to sell the property to Jim Carter. Don indicated he would follow up on this in case of any changes and that he would continue to seek property for the Club. Following that, there was a discussion on the geographic boundaries for the search area. It was decided informally that the Club should look as far south as AuSable Point and north to the Treadwell Bay area. Don Duley mentioned some further possibilities for prospective lake shore properties.

At that same meeting, meetings which were taking on more of a "corporate style," Allan Booth gave an insurance update and Andy Edwards reported on the status of incorporation for the Valcour Sailing Club. He indicated that several areas of structure of the VSC would need to be more closely defined prior to incorporation; these included structure of membership and transferability of capital interest in the Club in case of dissolutionment (redemption). Bob Smith asked Andy to draft articles immediately based on his knowledge of our needs and the LCYC's charter. Dues for the 1985 year were set at $55 for general members and $30 for associate members. That meeting, which had started in early evening, adjourned at 11:15 P.M. Clearly, the business and planning affairs of the Valcour Sailing Club were becoming intricate and time consuming!

 

Another Executive Committee meeting was held just three weeks latter, on February 14th. Most of that agenda was "routine" business relating to planning for the 1985 sailing season's activities. Katie White suggested that "the Club reimburse the PHRF representatives for ferry tickets when they go to Burlington for meetings." The next evening, the VSC general meeting and spaghetti dinner was held at the Unitarian Fellowship on Palmer Street; the membership received reports on several areas in which the Executive Committee had been working.

{RdF - Probably only those members who have gone through this cycle of Executive Committee planning are able to appreciate the amount of background committee work that goes into the brief overview given to the general membership at the spring and fall banquets. For those members who have been on the periphery of Club activities, all that is necessary for a better understanding of Club dynamics is to jump in and volunteer to participate in this committee work! As in most organizations, "the work flows to those who will do it."}

 

On March 6th, the Executive Committee again met and reviewed the 1985 Race Schedule and Yearbook. Rob McDowell, reporting for the LCRC representatives Dave White and Dave McDowell, indicated that "there is a big question on whether or not we {LCRC, and by implication, the VSC} want to have a yacht racing association. It is the opinion of the Executive Committee that we should not form one independent of anyone else, but possibly should consider another association in the area. Also the LCRC is concerned over safety and they are thinking about making compliance with the category 3 USYRU safety regulations mandatory."

Also reviewed at that meeting were the results of the latest VSC questionnaire with 25 returns. It appeared that there was strong agreement in several areas, such as: purchase of a power boat, 80%; spinnaker and non-spinnaker classes on Wednesday night, 88%; two-race concept on Sunday, 88%; triangular race on Sundays, 80%; and a 1 P.M. Racer-Cruiser race on Sunday, 84%.  Based upon these results, the Executive Committee implemented the stated preferences. Rob McDowell was instructed to proceed in the purchase of four new inflatable racing marks, each one sponsored by a commercial business. The sponsors are: Bill Rowe, Rowe Boats International; Robert Smith, Howard Johnson's; and Rob McDowell, Saildyne. Dave Bruner agreed to look into the possibility of getting the fourth sponsor. Sail changes were discussed and the Executive Committee decided that, in the interest of good seamanship, "both head sails and main sails can be reefed or changed in the rules of the series that they are racing in. Cruisers may change head sails up or down in size but cannot use spinnakers or other sails that are not legal with the PHRF rules."

The Bylaws of the Valcour Sailing Club, Inc. were finalized in 1985. Also completed in 1985 were the Articles of Incorporation for the Valcour Sailing Club, Inc. as a not-for-profit corporation. At the May 18th general membership meeting, Andy Edwards, Club Attorney, reported that the Articles "are now before a Supreme Court justice {of New York State} awaiting" that status. Commodore Bob Smith indicated that "there is a need for a race, real estate, bylaw, house, and membership committee to report at bi-monthly meetings. To insure continuity from year to year, the committees should be organized with a rotation of membership and an executive committee member as a liaison At some time, when membership increases it is hoped that the Valcour Sailing Club will have a Board of Directors." {RdF - Some members, myself included, noted that there were now more officer/committee positions in the Valcour Sailing Club than there were members! Obviously, some people were going to be busy serving in more than one capacity. Again, at the risk of overstatement, for members who wish to get involved, there is a plethora of positions waiting to be filled.}

Ted and Mary Price accepted the position of Rear Commodore to replace the positions of Mike and Sandy Busher who had moved to Florida. They served in that position for the 1985 and 1986 seasons and did a magnificent job in planing the social/banquet activities for those years. Since Ted was often busy in USAF national defense matters, it was left to Mary to execute that planning. Ted and Mary Price are fine examples of the many active duty Air Force members that have also served in the Valcour Sailing Club and thereby enriched the Club with their enthusiasm and social graces.

Planning activities in 1985 extended well into the sailing season. Another Executive Committee meeting was held in July and, among other agenda items, Katie White suggested reactivation of the Real Estate Search Committee with David White as Chairman. The Executive Committee agreed. On August 6, a general membership meeting reported that Club incorporation was completed. Regarding the Mayor's Cup Race, the VSC Commodore would be "the mandatory Officer of the Day and Chairman" of the VSC's effort to support that event. Regarding the Club House Search committee, it "has been reactivated with Katie and Dave White as Chairpersons. Don Duley is presently working on some possibilities. Racing activities, particularly the function of OD, were discussed. At a general membership meeting in November, several changes to the bylaws, generally incorporating successive officer positions, were adopted. The season closed with the annual fall banquet in November with the election of new officers and the awarding of trophies by Commodore Smith.

 

1985 Series

Sunday Series

Class A: 1st  OBSESSION, 2nd CHAOUSAROU II, 3rd WITCHCRAFT II

Class B: 1st  HOT TODDY, 2nd AEOLUS, 3rd EZ DUZ IT

PM Class A:1st WITCHCRAFT

PM Class B: 1st  HOT TODDY, 2nd OUTLAW, 3rd THUMPER

Wednesday Spring Series

Class A: 1st OBSESSION, 2nd WITCHCRAFT I, 3rd GOING CONCERN

Class B: 1st HOT TODDY, 2nd EZ DUZ IT, 3rd WIND BROKER

Wednesday Summer Series

Class A: 1st OBSESSION, 2nd WITCHCRAFT II, 3rd CHAOUSAROU II

Class B: 1st EZ DUZ IT 2nd FALCON, 3rd BEAUJEU

 

VALCOUR SAILING CLUB ENTERS ITS THIRD DECADE - 1986

In 1986, under the helm of Commodore David Burner, the Valcour Sailing Club entered its third decade as a recreational organization. Many of its yearly activities were now institutionalized, and planning activities would pretty much follow an established pattern. New minds would bring new ideas, but there was little that had not been tried in previous years. Only incremental deviations from the normal schedule of events would occur in 1986. This is not to say that the leadership in 1986 lacked imagination. But it was becoming clear to most that tradition played an important role in the Valcour Sailing Club at this point. The Commodore and his or her Executive Committee, in a very real sense, were standing on the shoulders of those that came before them: the pioneers who had conceived a sailing club as a group of dedicated centerboard racers, many of those skippers moving up to keel boats as the VSC joined the Lake Champlain Racing Conference, and again those who ushered in the era of the club cruiser-racers under Cruising Club of America handicapping, and finally the adoption of Performance Handicapping Racing Fleet rule in 1978. And in the closing years of its second decade, building on what had been done before them, came those that sought to formalize the Club as a corporation with bylaws addressing that which had evolved down through the years as the heart and soul of the Valcour Sailing Club.

 

SERIES RACING AWARDS - 1986

Sunday Series

Class A: 1st  CHAOUSAROU II, 2nd OBSESSION, 3rd WITCHCRAFT II

Class B: 1st  HOT TODDY, 2nd EZ DUZ IT, 3rd AEOLUS

Wednesday Spring Series

Racing: 1st OBSESSION, 2nd CHAOUSAROU II, 3rd WITCHCRAFT II

Cruising: 1st HOT TODDY, 2nd WIKI WIKI, 3rd SUMMER LOVE

Wednesday Summer Series

Racing: 1st OBSESSION, 2nd CHAOUSAROU II, 3rd WITCHCRAFT II

Cruising: 1st WIKI WIKI, 2nd NIMUE' III, 3rd SUMMER LOVE

Fall Series: 1st CHAOUSAROU II, 2nd  OBSESSION, 3rd   PEGASUS

 

FIRST AWARD OF HONORARY LIFETIME MEMBERSHIP

Now ... in its third decade ... the Valcour Sailing Club, Inc. exists as a corporate entity, almost with a life of its own. Those that receive the entrusted helm of the Valcour Sailing Club in the future can feel a part of the tradition that had been launched by those who, twenty years ago, had a dream. It was most appropriate that the Club recognize one of those pioneers. For his incomparable contribution to the Valcour Sailing Club, the Club awarded Dr. David B. McDowell an Honorary lifetime membership in November, 1986.

 

DAVID B. McDOWELL CHAIRS LIGHTHOUSE FUND DRIVE

In 1986, New York State purchased the small track on which the Valcour Island Lighthouse sits thus bringing that entire Lake Champlain island under public ownership. Faced with the possible razing of the structure due to its presently unsafe condition, local history buffs sought and won a mandate from the State to restore the Lighthouse. Dr. David B. McDowell, reflecting a love that many Valcour Sailing Club members have for that landmark, accepted chairmanship of a Clinton County drive to raise funds for its restoration. Members of the Club will be asked to support this restoration by purchasing engravings of the Lighthouse. Some members have suggested that the Club could coordinate a long-format race with a special awards ceremony on Valcour Island in conjunction with activities there. This could very well lead to the establishment of yet another Club tradition, i.e. The "Valcour Lighthouse Cup." A brief history of the Lighthouse:

 

"In 1871, Orren Shipman sold to the United States the property upon which the Valcour Lighthouse stands. In 1874 the facility was fully operational. The upper floor of the two-story limestone building is cedar-shingled below a tarred mansard roof which collects and drains rainwater that once serviced the huge batteries that powered the beacon. Above the mansard roof is the structure that supports the light and its lens.

 

"For 55 years the Valcour Lighthouse protected the navigable channel of Lake Champlain. In 1929, a steel-framework tower was built about 100 feet from the old lighthouse on a 100-foot-square parcel which still remains in Federal ownership. In 1932, the U.S. government determined that the original Valcour Lighthouse 'cannot be profitably used for the work of the lighthouse service,' and it was sold to the highest bidder for eight hundred dollars in that year." (Adapted from a paper by Dave Ochs and furnished by Dr. James Dawson of the committee to restore the Valcour Island Lighthouse.)

 

 

PARTING THOUGHTS ON 20 YEARS OF VSC ACTIVITIES

 

Reading the Chronicles of the Valcour Sailing Club for its first two decades will result, I am sure, in different images for different readers. To David McDowell, I hope it will be an affirmation of his dream and his many years of participation in, and service to, the Club. His images, and those of Mimi, they have often said, are of all the old friends that form the fabric of lifelong memories of sailing on Lake Champlain. To all who have contributed to what the Valcour Sailing Club is today: my hope is that this chronicle, which you all have written, leaves you with a sense of pride and accomplishment.       Each of you, in a very real sense, have given a part of yourself to build the tradition we call the Club.

For the fairly recent member, myself included, I hope that this chronicle speaks of tradition which is precious ... tradition that has been wrought from much experimentation and loving labor. Those who are called upon to take the helm of the Club must be forward looking in their thinking, but always with a sense of the past and its traditions with which they are entrusted.

For the new member, I hope that this chronicle will give greater meaning to your participation in the Valcour Sailing Club. Through its reading, you can have some small factual idea of how tradition has evolved down through the years. There are many chapters yet to be written by your participation.

 

For the general reader, I hope that this chronicle will hint of the attraction and beauty that Lake Champlain holds for the sailor. The Lake, for just a brief tick in time, has played yet another silent scene not far from land.

René du Fort 6/1986, reformatted 9/2001