Happy New Year from your 2007 Rear Commodore for Sail! I'm convinced that you are all curious, as am I, how I wound up in this situation/position. Honestly, I have no idea, but perhaps Jim's custom-made margaritas played a role. This will definitely prove to be an intoxicating year!

First, I would like to thank our 2006 Rear Commodore for Sail, Joe Pyle, for all his effort and countless hours of plain ole hard work. I only hope that I can successfully fill his boat shoes! I look forward to the grueling hours, the time away from my family, and the staggering number of hangovers headaches that this position is guaranteed to induce.

Second, I am devoted to a first-class racing program. My ambition is to see more boats racing! Racing provides you with experience in maneuvering around other boats (starting), tacking, rounding marks, etc. that can only come with practice. I believe that racing is the best way to gain knowledge and master your boat so that you can get the most out of her. You will also enhance you self-confidence in your ability to handle your boat in many different “sea” and wind conditions. You will learn a wealth of information in these competitive but fun events.

Speaking of racing, how convenient is it that I have enclosed the Notice of Race for the HCYC Frostbite Regatta in this issue of the Ship’s Log? The Frostbite will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2007. So while it's on your mind, why don't you fill out the registration form and send it to me now so that the proper number of trophies can be purchased and presented immediately after the race. By the way, since I would like to see more racing events at HCYC, I will be proposing a regatta each month when next year's calendar is created.

Third, one of the phenomenal qualities of HCYC is the spirit of volunteerism. I need to tap into that spirit. I need your assistance with the sailing and racing activities. Your first chance volunteer will be at the Frostbite Regatta on Saturday, January 20, 2007. I need a chase boat or two to set the marks, check the wind direction, check the wind velocity, etc. Additionally, I need help managing the race from the committee boat (so that we can get the race started on time). You can volunteer to perform such activities as: recording wind speed and direction; checking in the racers and identifying each racer by its sail number; preparing the “course board” to notify the racers of the course selected to be sailed; or operating the stop watches to time the race, etc.

Finally, I seek your support to involve more of our sailors in racing activities in 2007. Please accept my personal invitation to enjoy the club and enhance your sailing experience. What a first-rate way to meet and get to know our yacht club members.

To all of you, thank you for this opportunity - you won't be disappointed.