Holiday Greetings From The NEIYA
On behalf of myself and the officers, Vice Commodore Jay Whitehair, Secretary Karen Binder and Treasurer Bob Haag everyone a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a reminder that our season has just begun.
Our season the best season in the world. The time when liquid turns to solid and the apparent wind is ever on the nose. While sailors in New England have already set up, cruised, and raced and some have journeyed to the Central Region to race, right after Christmas usually marks the unofficial beginning of the season. Once the weather cooperates things will kick it into high gear and become the most wonderful time of the year.
We are always challenged and sometimes feel like Goldie Locks trying to find ice to play on. “This ice is too thin or not at, this ice is covered with crud but this ice is just right.” We know about the wind but let’s not tempt fate. This year we have a layer of Covid-19 on top of the usual uncertainty. A layer of fear, a layer of uncertainty, a layer of doubt, and two scoops of RISK precariously perched on top of it all.
Our own comfort zones and the patchwork of local and state regulations is channeling us closer to home. Some people will still travel and this is a decision that each one of us has to make for ourselves. With that in mind let’s make the most out of the local scene everywhere. Whether that is in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, or even Rhode Island. Let’s make our plan “B” this season’s plan “A”. As reported a group of us met up for an off-ice meet-up in CT a couple weeks ago and this is exactly what we discussed. Mark Friedman in New Hampshire ventured out onto Lake Waukegan this past Tuesday and would have welcomed other locals if they could come.
In Covid times let’s change it up. Get outdoors and see what nature has given us. Find that ice within your comfort zone. Some of it might not be as big or as good as some ice that is further away but you will be. Pick up the phone, clear your throat or start pounding the text keys and get others out to join you. No matter what have fun with like-minded folks. And you never know the ice you find may be steller.
Next steps check in on the tabs at the top of the home page Member Login/Directory and Member Login and Member Login/Forum. We will be publishing a weekly group text for people to join. Big Ice and Races will of course be posted on the home page. Enjoy family and friends and let’s
Think Ice and Have a Wonderful Christmas and see you on the ice,
John Stanton
NEIYA Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Please reach out directly to me if you have any thoughts.
P.P.S. We are going to have fun this season regardless. So press on…
Off-Ice Meet Up Stamford, CT
This past Saturday was a welcome dose of normal for this time of year for a group of NEIYA members. No, we were not able to hit the ice anywhere in New England but we did get a group of people safely together to talk about iceboating. Getting ready for the season and talking over those plans with like-minded friends.
We had a good mix of seasoned, newer, and newbie iceboaters at Landfall Navigation in Stamford CT. There were questions asked and solutions drawn out from the 100+ years of experience at the gathering. A local rigger from Ocean Rigging stopped by Landfall and was able to help out someone make up a setup stays.
The only problem we could not solve was provide a nice place of fresh Black Ice. That will come as it always does. Sometimes a little earlier sometimes a little later.
In the meantime be sure your buddies are ready to sail. Drop them an email, give them a call, or invite them over to Talk & Tune as the ice coming soon. Need help or looking to lend a hand check the member directory for contact info. NOTE if your dues year is marked with anything but 2021 and is RED.
The Member Directory is here https://theneiya.org/member-directory/ it is password protected. if there is trouble just let me know. It will be sent out this morning via email. Note, there are additional older list below the current list. Please thank our Club Secretary Karen Binder in the pits or between races for keeping track of all the details! Rumor has it that she will be posting another segment in her Drive for Excellence blog series. Watch out for it here.
This year we may not be traveling as far but there will be ice and we need to find, scout, and sail it. In other words get ready for hyper local and or extended day trips.
Think Ice and Be Safe,
John Stanton
DN5023
NEIYA, Commodore
john@neiya.org
Off Ice Gathering This Saturday
I don’t have to remind anyone that this year and into 2021 is not what we are used to. In ordinary times we have gotten together for an off-ice tune-up and education sessions at Steve Lamb’s place of business. Steve has been kind enough to open his vast shop for us to set up iceboats indoors and gather without worrying about the elements. As you have already guessed we are going to forgo the event this year and have already begun planning for an even grander event in 2021.
While the complex patchwork of rules, regulations, and risk factors have made it imprudent for everyone to gather from the far corners of New England, that should not stop us from talking about and preparing for sailing in a remote and safe plate of ice.
I will be working this coming Saturday, December 12th at Landfall Navigation in Stamford, CT. Since I have to be there I will be setting up my DN in the parking lot for a customer demonstration. I welcome local NEIYA members or those interested to stop by from 10am to 3pm. Have a boat you want to get on the ice this season bring it by for a once over the collection of seasoned iceboaters. Drop me an email if you have any questions, John@neiya.org.
Like our sailing other spontaneous small local gatherings may be occurring in the coming days before we have ice.
Think Ice and Be Safe
John Stanton
DN5023
NEIYA, Commodore
john@neiya.org
Thinking Ice on Thanksgiving
Happy Thanksgiving to all. Hoping everyone is safe and enjoying some level of the usual traditions. Things are not the same but I am thankful we can preserve some level of normalcy. We have already gone virtual for a few events and there are discussions about more as well as safe, sensible, responsible, and compliant ice time. We are in a fluid situation so stand by. Keep Saturday, December 12 in mind. Details to follow.
Big events are just not going to happen this year but with miles of ice coming to bogs, frog ponds, small lakes, and big ice we will sail.
Hope everyone enjoyed the Iron Duck Movie featuring a couple of our own Vermont Iceboaters Bob Dill and Schumacher. Through their endless determination, they earned a place in sailing history. Special thanks to the director of Iron Duck Ben Dolenc for bringing the Iron Duck Story to all of us last week and to screens of all sizes. While the NEIYA sponsored watch party has come and gone you can still see the film here https://www.eventbrite.com/e/iron-duck-watch-party-tickets-130323688661. If you love sailing on ice, dirt, and going fast it’s a must-see.
Make and keep a promise to call an iceboat friend this long weekend. Talk about the great times you have had, what you need to get on the ice again and how and when blades will meet the ice again. Be thankful for the ice time we have had together and for the ice time yet to come.
Think Ice and be safe,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Check out the Pocket Skeeter that just went up on our Classified Section. Available from one of our premier boat builders Bill Buchholz. https://theneiya.org/classifieds/
Marching towards the Ice
Brian Langley reports that Bella, the youngest sailor in our fleet, is just too big to fit in her BDX-8 this year. She will be upsizing to a brand new BDX-10. The craft will be running a small 24″ springboard to bring it to LOA @ about 12ft. This will sail on a glass mast formerly owned by John Pepper with a clean 45 sq ft skimmer sail.
Brian modified the plan to lighten the overall weight of the hull. The lightening mods include 3/4 x 3/4 frames and truss work, 3/8th one pcs ply-wood floor, and 1/4″ side skins. He believes it should come in right around 60 pounds with foot steering assembly and springboard. The craft also features a nice 7″ trunk for safety gear, lunch etc. And open bulkheads with corner bracing. Given the light weight of both craft and pilot it ought to really scream down the ice.
Also on the building bench are two new BDX-12’s one for himself and one for Doug sharp they should be on schedule for this season’s ice. Doug has been in semi retirement for a few years and this proves that once bitten by the iceboat illness you are a lifer. We are looking forward to seeing Doug back on the ice again.
Go Bella! Good luck with your new rig. With your power to weight ratio you may just have the fastest acceleration out there. Can’t wait to see our youngest member ripping up the ice again this season.
What can I say about this video? There is beautiful ice and a desire to slide across it. Hopefully the wind picked up later as I am sure Charlie S. wore himself out after picking for a while.
We are moving towards that first sail-able ice part of the season but it may out of reach for many of us. Have patience there is will come to your state.
Covid will impact some of our usual pre-ice activities. Traveling to different states to gather and discuss tuning and safety topics may not allowed and not a wise idea at this time. We are looking to focus more locally and are open to ideas and suggestions. Whatever happens looks like we will be staying closer to home so lets start looking locally.
One thing we can all enjoy is the viewing of Bob Dill and Schumacher’s Iron Duck Documentary. I am in the final stages of setting up the group viewing and will make the announcement shortly.
Think Ice and be safe,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Speed Call / Iron Duck Watch Party
The wait is over. As announced a couple weeks ago we are a GO for our Go Fast, Go Faster, Tune for Speed and Win conference call. Tuesday November 10th 7:00 pm. We have a panel of experts lined up to share their secrets and to help you finish closer to the top.
Send me an email for the conference call login info, John@neiya.org. See you Tuesday, November 10th 7:00 pm
As many of you have already read on Facebook and other places, the Iron Duck Film has been completed and will premier at the Montreal Independent Film Festival. Featuring veteran New England ice boaters Bob Dill and Bob Schumacher from Vermont. Both gentlemen have been long time DN racers, ice enthusiasts, have a passion for speed on the ice and playa, and NEIYA supporters.
The NEIYA will be having an Iron Duck movie watch party online. The date will be either the night of the premier November 19th or a day or so after. Stay tuned for final details for NEIYA members and special guests.
Till then read more about the Iron Duck movie from Bowsprit Productions at https://bowsprit.co/iron-duck-2.
Swap meet update. New DN owner Jack Denker needed some help with his newly purchased first boat. Being a college student he did not have the resources nor expertise to tackle the project. A call went out to area members for help and Dave Fortier answered that call. Repairs were completed this afternoon and Jack is ready to join the rest of us on the ice. Thanks for pitching in Dave!
We are just weeks away from first ice. Be ready to go.
Think Ice,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. If you have never poured through the wealth of Ice related information Bob Dill has compiled on http://lakeice.squarespace.com/, do so before the season takes off.
P.P.S. Check out this latest classified listing Peter Zendt’s J14 is up for sale.
Checkered Flag All the Way
In the past couple of months, we had doubts about whether we could have our annual event. Well, we pulled it off in a Covid safe way. Thanks to everyone that adhered to Covid guidelines. From the Swap through lunch and our Annual Meeting things moved smoothly.
The Thompson Speedway was a fitting venue for a group of speed enthusiasts and a good collection of competitive individuals. The theme of the day like most everything we do was “Go Fast”. Fast cars and fast boats. This place was made just for us.
It was nice to chat with some new boaters and also to speak with others who are returning from a long time away. It reminds me of how much information we have gathered over our time on the ice and how valuable it is to others who are trying to get some blades on the ice. A common feature among members of the NEIYA is that we enjoy passing on any advice we have.
Boats changed hands and went home with new owners. We welcomed a couple of new iceboaters into the fold this time around and wish them well in their first season. We as a club have committed to helping them get up to speed in this and future seasons.
Big boats and small boats. There was something for everyone and more than enough equipment to fulfill many dreams. DN sailors looking at bigger boats and everyone trying to figure out how they can take home a BlowKart for the warmer and the time leading up to first ice.
Following lunch, we had our Annual Meeting where we closed out the 2020 season with a checkered flag and welcomed the new season waving a green flag. Full meeting minutes will be published soon.
Highlights include The recognition of the intrepid who ventured all the way to Montana for the DN Gold Cup and NAs. The epic ice many of us sailed on at Winnipesaukee over a couple of weeks. We ran all of our key races this past season and ended up with a lot of cruising ice time as well. On the new race front, Bill Buchholtz took first place in the inaugural Presidents Day Cup. We look forward to Bill defending his throne next year. Speaking of thrones. As most of you know James “T” Thieler returned from Montana as the New North American DN Champion. Way to go T!
Vice Commodore Jay Whitehair a First Responder in Norwich VT specializing in ice rescue, gave a safety and rescue demonstration and I know every one of us learned something from Jay. We are very lucky to have a seasoned pro standing by to help us learn to be safer. To quote Jay First thing one does in an emergency is “Call 911” and begin rescue and first-aid. One of the recurring themes in Jay’s lectures is putting together a personal safety kit.
To help members build their own kits, Mylar Space Blankets were distributed to all attending members in good standing. The blanket giveaway was made possible through a bulk at cost purchase through Landfall Navigation. If you couldn’t be at the event yours will be coming in the mail. Nudge Nudge, pay your dues!
Thanks to all that that helped make this event possible. I may not have been able to talk to everyone but I know that our Secretary Karen Binder did. Thanks, Karen for working the crowd and collecting member information from everyone. Our membership role is our most important and pretty much only asset. I feel very confident in entrusting it to your care. Everyone, please remember to update Karen if your contact info changes during the season.
Thanks to Bob Haag for keeping our number balanced and in order and providing insights on where we are from a financial perspective. Bob was wandering about the Swap and im sure many of you had the opportunity to speak with him about building and boat maintenance. If you did not there will be other opportunities in the future.
T what can I say but thanks for your tireless dedication to our sport and the time you devote to helping others compete and go fast. Thanks for shepherding NEIYA racing last year and congratulations on getting the races in. We are all looking forward to your carrying on as Race Committee Chairman this coming season.
Special thanks to Henry Capotosto for suggesting the Thompson Speedway and working behind the scenes to make this happen. Henry has held many positions in the NEIYA leadership team over the years and currently sits on the Governing Committee. Next time you see Henry on or off the ice please thank him for his tireless behind-the-scenes efforts. Without Henry and other volunteers, the NEIYA would not exist.
And of course thanks to everyone who attended and those that wanted to but were logistically challenged. During these times it is important to ground ourselves with familiarity and to us that is iceboating. I am glad we were able to put together an event that people felt comfortable enough to attend. Outdoors is safer and we will see people out in the elements this winter.
We are all looking forward to a safe and fast sailing season. I know the people in Maine are keeping a watchful eye on Plymouth Pond. This could happen before Thanksgiving so drag your boat and gear out of storage this weekend.
Think Ice and Sail Safe,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. We are moving ahead with lining up the right people for our race and race tune conference call. Stay tuned for more details.
Little Things Matter?
Little things matter. How many times have you set out onto the ice and sometime during the day remembered that you forgot to put your bobstay in? I will admit to doing this more than a few, including an entire day of races which included a long trip over and back through crappy ice. Did my boat break in half? No, but I consider myself lucky. I have since stored the bobstay with the rest of my stays so that I don’t forget. I know some people who have physically attached it to the boat with a wire tether. And I’m sure that there are any number of tricks others are using to help them remember. How do you remember your bobstay? Share in the comment section below.
Now for the shameless membership pitch… Like the bobstay, you might not immediately know and remember that your 2021 membership dues are and even go a full season without paying up. Will an individual or a few nonpaying members break the back of the NEIYA? Probably not, but you will want us to be there when you are ready to join in for a race, cruise, or scheduled event.
So pay up. Do it NOW so you do not forget. There are links right below. Please note you are not required to use PayPal as your payment method click the appropriate button below, click continue then click “Pay with Debit or Credit Card” and use the card of your choice.
Don’t forget to pay for tomorrow’s lunch if you plan on attending we are doing a final headcount shortly and don’t want to turn anyone away.
| Description | Price | |
| 2021 Membership | $30 |
 |
| 2021 Membership and Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2021 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $60 |
|
| Lunch Only | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
All members in good standing will receive an ice safety-related door prize at the swap meet. Can’t make it? We will mail it to you.
Annual Swap Meet, Lunch, and Meeting. Saturday, October, 24th 10:00AM. Thompson, CT. 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277. Use the Golf Club entrance. Map Link We have a big parking lot for boats and other stuff and plenty of space. there could be a couple landsailors too. Pay your dues and lunch with buttons on the right.
I am looking forward to catching up with everyone tomorrow and kicking off the 2021 season. It’s been a rough year and while we know things are anything but normal, it will be nice to have some consistency.
Think Ice and see you on Saturday,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Don’t forget your masks. We will be abiding by local regulations and just plain common sense.
P.P.S. Any questions or comments? Drop me an email.
Yankee Newly restored 
Renegade ready to go 
DN sail it home
What’s in Your Iceboat Bag?
Last Thursday we successfully held our second NEIYA conference call in the fall pre-ice series. The “Newbie” call was well attended with a good group of the new, newer, and never set foot on the ice as well as a good assortment of grizzled and experienced sailors.
Enthusiasm was high as we talked about how we got into iceboating, what to wear what kind of boats make sense for people, and a general safety discussion.
Open questions from the call for NEIYA members and iceboaters at large. What’s in your bag? What kind of spiked shoes or strap ons do you use? If you were to buy new spikes what would you purchase? What kind of helmet do you wear and would you buy it again? What kind of ice pics or claws would you recommend? Let’s hear from you in the comments section below. Help answer for anyone that is getting started.
Next call topic, Getting Race-Ready. Time will be announced after our annual event. The third all Getting Anything with Blades Ready for the Ice will follow about a week after and Building and Repair shortly after. Have a topic you are interested in or passionate about chime in.
Yankee Newly restored Renegade ready to go DN sail it home
Annual Swap Meet, Lunch, and Meeting. Saturday, October, 24th 10:00AM. Thompson, CT. 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277. Use the Golf Club entrance. Map Link We have a big parking lot for boats and other stuff and plenty of space. there could be a couple landsailors too. Pay your dues and lunch with buttons on the right.
So everyone what’s in your bag? Share your thoughts in the comments section or bring them this Saturday. Bring your spares to sell. Bring spikes, helmets, blades, masts, boats, or whatever.
Think Ice and see you on Saturday,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Any questions or comments? Drop me an email.
Today’s The Day – Call at 7:00pm
Today is the day. We will have a conference call at 7 and the primary focus will be on those who are new and or interested in iceboating. We have some old salts waiting to answer questions and guide you safely onto the ice.
All members should have received an email from me yesterday with login instructions. If you did not or are not a member and would like to join in please email me directly at john@neiya.org.
Not a member? I encourage you to signup and attend our annual Swap Meet and Event at the Thompson Motor Speedway Golf Course Next Saturday, October 24th. 10:00 am. We will have lots of outdoor space for the swap meet, Lunch, and our Annual Meeting. You don’t have to come inside if you are not comfortable doing so but everyone should meet up in the parking lot. You do not have to be a member to attend the swap or other activities.
For a preview of items for sale check out the Classified Section and remember to reach out to the individual seller via their published contact info. Replies like “is it still for sale” and other questions will not be published so send the seller an email or pick up the phone.
Thompson, CT. 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277. Use the Golf Club entrance. Map Link We have a big parking lot for boats and other stuff and plenty of space. there could be a couple landsailors too.
| Description | Price | |
| 2021 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2021 Membership and Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2021 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $60 |
|
| Lunch Only | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
Think Ice and be safe,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
John@neiya.org
DNs in Advertising Today
We have all seen iceboats used to sell everything from liquor, cigarettes, and cars, clothing, etc. My own DN5023 and her sister last know to be in NJ were used by Oldsmobile as props at a series of international car shows. The latest, a natural from the sailmaker that has collected a lot of DN silver, to use the iceboating tie is North Sails for their Ice Sailing Collection of clothing. Check out what they have to offer, besides sails. There are also shout outs to Chad and Oliver https://webstore.northsails.com/us/en/fw20-ice-sailing.html #icesailingcollection
See how many NEIYA members or DN friends and competitors you can find in the video and post your comments below.
Once you find yourself or friends please renew your membership for the season and reserve your lunch at the Thompson Speedway Golf Course for our annual event on the 24th. We need to firm up the headcount per covid rules. Do it now, so you don’t forget.
| Description | Price | |
| 2021 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2021 Membership and Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2021 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $60 |
|
| Lunch Only | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
Think Ice, Sail Fast, and be Safe,
John Stanton
DN5023
Commodore, NEIYA
John@neiya.org
Green, Green, Green…
- Everything is coming up green for the 2021 season. First up, our classified section is back up and running. I have only heard from a handful of people about wanting their old ads back up. If you have not sold your iceboat items(s) and want to sell please reach out to me. This beauty just went up yesterday and the price is right. See it at the Swap Meet.
- Newbie iceboat call is finally coming back. 7:00pm Thursday, October 15th. After flaming out on the first call It is back on the schedule. We will have enhanced security this go-round. Please email john@neiya.org to receive an invite from Zoom. Bring your question and interest in iceboating. We will have a mix of old and new sailors to share experiences and help the new get on the ice this season.
- Lastly, and the most important point. We are counting down the days till our annual event which is being held at this Thompson Speedway, Thompson, CT. 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277. Use the Golf Club entrance. Map Link We have a big parking lot for boats and other stuff and plenty of space. there could be a couple landsailors too.
Many people have already sent in their dues and paid for lunch. I need people to follow the links below and pay your dues and or purchase lunch. In these days we need to get our headcount in NOW. While we will take payment on site for dues and lunch paying online is preferred especially this year.
| Description | Price | |
| 2021 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2021 Membership and Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2021 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $60 |
|
| Lunch Only | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
Think Ice and as always be safe,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Our Vice Jay is doing a dive clean up at the Quaboag launch tomorrow. He could use a couple volunteers to help put trash in bags. Info here:
Annual Event is ON For Oct 24th
In these uncertain times, I am happy to announce that we are going forward with our annual Event. It will be a little different this year but the iceboating spirit will prevail. The NEIYA is made up of the people and the history we share, camaraderie, fellowship, spirited competition, and sailing together. Come out and welcome in the upcoming 2021 Season.
Come join your fellow NEIYA members and interested individuals
When: Saturday, October 24th, 10:00am
Where: Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277 https://goo.gl/maps/DbGpTekm4ZLNnV8n7
- There will be door prizes and giveaways for all
- Swap Meet and outside gathering lower parking lot
- Lunch and meeting inside and accommodations can be made for outside eating if anyone prefers. Because we are in
- The golf facilities will be open and if the practice greens are not aerated we could have a casual putting competition. Most of us are sailors, not golfers but we are talking bragging rights. Bring your sticks and a sleeve of balls.
- There may be a land sailor or two set up in the parking lot and if the wind cooperates a demo will occur.
- There may also be some amateur track events going on to watch.
- Now is a good time to
- We ask that everyone follow the prescribed state and federal protocol. It’s about being sure everyone is comfortable and safe and not politics.
We will need a headcount for lunch and now’s a perfect time to reserve your lunch and your 2021 season dues.
| Description | Price | |
| 2021 Membership | $30 |
|
| 2021 Membership and Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2021 Membership for one & Lunch x2 | $60 |
|
| Lunch Only | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form | ||
THINK ICE and let’s have a great 2021 Season,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. If anyone has any questions, comments, concerns or thought please contact me directly.
Mea Culpa The Barbarians Broke Through
All conference call attendees and those that could not get on after I killed the meeting. My apologies I thought I had enough security set up but obviously not. Will have to implement additional safeguards going forward. Having new people in the crowd I did not know made things harder.
Checking schedules now and hope to redo this tomorrow night.
Think Ice and Internet Security,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
1st Conference Call Tomorrow Night
All,
A little more then 24 hours from now we will have our gathering venue announcement and help guide new, newer, or returning iceboaters back onto the ice this coming season.
With all that has been going on in our own lives and the world as a whole, it will be nice to bring some glimmer of normalcy into our lives. I can’t think of a better way than to sheet in and go fast. Before we can go iceboating there are a few things that have to happen. Of course, the weather has to turn but I am thinking of our annual gathering and the preparation that goes into getting ready.
In preparation for the upcoming season and to be sure that we are only showing the most current classified inventory, all classified ads have been pulled. If you had a previously published ad and it is still for sale just email or leave a comment and we will put it back up. Please be wary of scammers. If you are suspicious it probably is a scam.
As mentioned tomorrow’s call will focus on Newbies and how to get everyone on the ice this season. There will be plenty of people on hand to help tonight and as the season begins.
Talk to you all tomorrow night. Check the conference all info above.
Think Ice,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Now is a good time to renew your NEIYA membership or join. Info to on the right.
Virtual Wrap-up and Meeting
Greetings from the dark shadow of the Corona epicenter. Our season really didn’t have a typical last hurrah. Concerns and fear overtook our need for ice and speed.
I for one could have traveled but as a person coming from a high-risk area did not feel right about potentially exposing those in nearly pristine areas. It was a matter of personal responsibility. Taking responsibility is something we as iceboaters know and live by.
Now that I have gotten the grim and foreboding out of the way, it’s time to let the sunshine in and make plans to close out our season on a positive note. At this point our best option is virtual. The Zoom platform is pretty easy and I expect even the low tech or Luddites among us will be fine.
Our first Virtual Meetup will be this Friday at 6:00pm. The meeting info including password has been placed in the member forum which is password protected. https://theneiya.org/member-forum/
Don’t remember the password or want to just get it directly drop me an email john@neiya.org
See online Friday,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Maybe The Last Gasps of the Season
Lake Wentwork 3/8/20
We heard from the folks in Maine, the gang that crossed our Northern border to take the Canadian DN nationals. Way to go, T add one more notch. Bill Buchholz drew a good crowd for the Mille 100. If you haven’t read the write up on the CIBS’s site click here. What’s next? Time will tell and it may just be a very long time till we return to the ice.
Keep the faith maybe we will sail Moosehead Lake in Maine again and after that a postseason off ice gathering. More on that in the next few days.
Below is an account of Sundays sail on Lake Wentworth in NH by John Pepper. This is John’s first season and he sails Roger Livingston’s old boat.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
John Pepper and Charlie Silfvenius AKA Charlie S. Lake Wentworth 4/8/20
It was a great day until ice got soft. 6 or 8 boats altogether. Gusts up to 20 at times made for some fast runs.
We had newcomer Marc Stipo and his 13-year-old boys, all summer sailors, show up. Marc took a DN out numerous times and declared ‘I am hooked’. It was too gusty to send the boys out alone on their first rides, but they each got a ride in the sidecar, and want to go again. Hitting 30 mph may have been the clincher.
We had an epic cell phone recovery at the end of the day. Finding a lost phone on a 3100 acre lake was a matter of waiting until wind slowed, starting downwind, and walking upwind, making calls on occasion. Cupped hands over the ears provided direction info. We first heard it from a half-mile away and closed in 100-yard increments. We got lucky. Charlie was the last boat off Wentworth yesterday, maybe for 2020?
Regards,
John P.
100 Mile Race Is ON – Sat 3/7 Pushaw Lake, ME
The 100 Mile Race has been called ON for tomorrow Saturday 7th on Pushaw Lake. The Lake is a little north of Bangor so get a move on if you are coming from the south.
Additional information, launch site, check-in, sailing instructions etc. will be posted by Bill Buchholz on www.iceboat.me
All those completing the epic trip will be rewarded with a custom sticker to dress up your boat, car, toolboax etc.
Sail Fast and Sail Long,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Quaboag Continues to Deliver
Bella Langley rips up Quaboag on Friday 2/21
Quaboag delivered one of the only games in town, it had a wonderfully smooth surface. There were a number of boats, multiple boarders, and wings, high tech and low rigs all sailing together. There was a huge range of experienced, new and newer sailors all doing what we love best. It was great to see Bill Converse one of our Sr members on the ice again. Boarders had a heavy presence and were ripping it up throughout the day.
Any info on happenings at Attitash? I have not heard but let me know how it went.
Credit John Stanton Quaboag 2/22/20
As we all know ice conditions change, sometimes rapidly. I sailed last week and until things were checked later in the week I was not sure whether the plate would be sailable again. We have the NEIYA organization the group of dedicated members and non-member ice enthusiasts to thank for finding and spreading the word.
Heros of Quaboag this week are Bob S. who spent several days in on and around Quaboag, the Langley family Brian Langley. After marking the hazards, Brian and his family sailed the less crowded non-weekend ice. Those marks served us all well on Saturday. Let me know how it went.
Cant see the images in your email check our website
During one of our on-ice NEIYA conversations, Karen Binder our secretary mentioned that she recognized and talked to a number of people on ice that were not members or had been members in good standing but for unknown reasons allowed their membership to lapse. Guilt trip warning. If we have helped you find and get on the ice then pay your dues, if we have helped you buy or sell boats or equipment then pay your dues, if you have participated in a NEIYA sanctioned event then please pay your dues. If you enjoy gathering with like-minded ice enthusiasts, then please pay your dues. Thanks for officially joining or renewing. Pay dues here or below
| Description | Price | |
| 2020 Membership | $30 |
|
NEIYA burgees are available once again. Show your iceboating spirit fly it from your halyard in the pits or your car antenna in the parking lot. They are hand made right here in Guilford CT by the Sail Bag Lady and made to last in a stiff breeze and will be around a long time. They are priced at our cost which is $40.25. Purchase burgee
At this point, we need a melt and refreeze to happen. Looking like that could happen this week. Bill Buchholz will be keeping a keen eye on Maine and Lee, Charlie and Randy have an eye on the Winnipousaki region others sare watching Champlain. I don’t know where but we will be sailing again soon. Lead the way, we will follow.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Have any thoughts drop me a line.
This weekend 2/22 Sailing Opportunities
Photo Credit Jackie Mushinsky Spencer Cable Access – Quaboag Pond 2/16/20
As most of you know and previously reported on the CIBC site the northern parts of New England got more snow so they are out of play. Our search for that Goldilocks plate of ice has not materialized but there are options to feed the need.
Some people are going back to Quaboag today and tomorrow as well. There are a number of known and likely unknown hazzards. If you do not know exactly were they are do your own investigations to get familiar with the safe sailing arounds. Mind the open water it is out there. Note Sunday it will be warmer so tomorrow is the day.
Paul Delnero aka PAD has been sailing, and will be there Saturday, Lake Attitash in Merrimack Massachusetts was scouted and sailed yesterday. Grade 8 white ice of 4-5 in. All Drain holes completely healed. Launch at public boat ramp. Route 110 to Attitash Ave to parking area. This is a small lake but with not many other choices…
Could there be something out of Canada or Western NY? Maybe but reporting what I know for sure at this point.
In the mean time here are some images taken Jackie Mushinsky of Spencer Cable Access.
Sail Fast. Sail Safe during this time of seasonal transition and please be careful,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. if there is anything else to report after today we will post.
Quaboag Feb 16 Recap – Come Back Tomorrow…
There was racing but not the Doc Fellows we will be seeking a more suitable venue for that venerable event. Thanks to Karen Binder for taking on the race committee responsibilities. More on the races later.
Before I go on, as many will only be reading this to know if there will be sailing at Quaboag tomorrow. The answer is yes. Show up, have fun and report back.
I have been to Quaboag on a number of occasions but never noticed that it is literally just down the street from Podunk. I have sailed in some out of the way Podunk lakes and this really is not. Quaboag is an easy 15 minutes off of the Mass Pike or Interstate 84 near Sturbridge MA.
A good crowd of sailors, some arriving early and others trickling in later in the afternoon descended on Quaboag Pond in Brookfield, MA. We had about 30 boats mostly DNs but a number of Whizes or is it just Whiz like fish? Also a handful of J14s and an assortment of other crafts.
The ice was smooth and remained relatively hard throughout the day. The wind was 10mph with some decent gusts that made for some lively sailing. as the day. The wind died down a for a little while but cam back up.
All looks good for another day tomorrow. If you are just coming for the first time mind the open leads to the left of the ramp and set up on the beach to the right. As always inquire about current conditions before you set out and sail slow and heads up till you understand where the issues are.
I will be sitting tomorrow out but see you on the ice somewhere else soon,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. if you took pictures today or tomorrow send them my way so they can be shared.
Sailors Returning to Quaboag & Doc Fellow Called On For Sunday…
Quaboag Pond Super smooth Surface – 2-15-20 Credit Mike Acebo
Seven boats sailed Quaboag today on a very smooth surface. There are a few open leads as well as some other hazards, some are marked. The area is not that large but should be plenty of space for cruising and racing.
Quaboag Pond, Brookfield, MA https://goo.gl/maps/LXKKs4PgatYfa7er8
We will be running the Doc Fellows with the Skipper’s meeting at 9:30.
Whether you come to race or cruise, come early or late, be sure to check with those who know the existing hazards and sail heads up till you understand where they are.
This has been a tough season and we don’t know how many more opportunities we will have, so load ’em up and see you tomorrow.
Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Valentine’s Weekend Ice Status We Know What We Know But…
Sailor’s Valentine from Capt. Jared Wentworth Tracy (1797-1864) to his wife, Mary Hussey Tracy (1809-1891) of Nantucket. Created 1839-1840. Credit Nantucket Historical Association.
All,
Apologies this was supposed to go out last night but your technically inclined Commodore was having issues.
Most of us know what the weather has brought us over the past week and that does not bode well for sailable ice. “I know what I know” but confirmed with our best boots on the ground in VT, ME and NH. and it was a unanimous no sailing. The same reports are coming out of the Montreal area. There is either too much snow or a very undesirable crud like surface keeping us from our beloved ice. Pretty much everything south of there is in various stages of returning to its summer liquid state.
There is one glimmer of hope for the long weekend. Quaboag Pond in Brookfield, MA is going to be checked today or tomorrow after the cold comes through. Maybe just maybe we can sail during this long weekend. Our ace checker Bob S will be confirming Quaboag’s condition and reporting back.
Patience rules the day and since this is Valentine’s Day, I’m sharing how other sailors be they grounded or during long voyages spent their time. Hint, they spent time, thinking about and creating hand crafted Valentines for their loved ones at home. A lesson for us all as the season progresses and we travel further and further from home in search of ice or whales.
From the Nantucket Historical Association https://nha.org/
This sailor’s valentine was a gift from Capt. Jared Wentworth Tracy (1797-1864) to his wife, Mary Hussey Tracy (1809-1891). The anchor symbolized Capt. Tracy’s intention to return home and “anchor” at his wife’s side. Tracy was captain of the schooner Harmony of Nantucket on a whaling voyage to the Indian Ocean in 1838-39. The Harmony wrecked on a reef near Caldeira Island in the Mozambique Channel (now Ilha Caldeira, Mozambique) on February 8, 1839. Tracy is reputed to have made this sailor’s valentine while stranded after the wreck. He returned to Nantucket by way of St. Helena in fall 1839. He subsequently retired from the sea and in 1840 set himself up as a shoe maker on island.
Think Thaw and Refreeze,
John
DNUS5023
P.S. Mike Acebo has published pictures from the New England Championships to the cloud on Dropbox. I am sure many of you can use an updated screen saver at work and home https://www.dropbox.com/sh/g48q6ugag93uilr/AADxpUBsGC2WjesOZAmxABqWa?dl=0 If you have a chance thank Mike!
P.P.S. Thanks to all those who supplied the human on available ice. We can not do it without you!
Looking Towards The Weekend
At the current moment, there is not much to report. Bill in Maine has a report about Damariscotta on iceboat.me but doesn’t sound immediately promising. I do expect to see something over the next two days and will pass on when we get it.
The above letter was sent to me by Mike Acebo on Long Island, NY. I am reaching out to Joseph to see if we can help him out and encourage others to do the same. While we do not have much to offer at the moment, it would help to set up the communication channels and maybe help someone fulfill his dreams.
On a more serious note, some of you may have received a spam email solicitation that used my name but did not originate from me. Not exactly sure how they pieced the information together but likely scrapped our site for emails. It does not appear as though my email account was ever compromised but the password has been changed as a precaution. Sorry for the inconvenience but unfortunately there are those out there that seek to take advantage. Perhaps we can encourage this individual to go out and check ice, alone, for us.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
New England Ice Yacht Association 