One Week Till Our NEIYA Swap Meet 10/26 ~ Spreading the Word Far & Wide
The NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch, and Meeting is a week away. Have you paid your dues, Lunch, and figured out what you are going to haul to the swap at Thompson Speedway? Do it today see you on Saturday.
Three of the four donated legacy boats are spoken for. If you are interested contact me before the swap meet.
We all serve as ice ambassadors and are responsible for spreading the ice boating word.
On Wednesday night we answered that call. In response to an invitation from the Lowell Boat Shop (LBS), initiated by member Frank Morris, Eben Whitcomb, James “T” Thieler, and I made the journey to the renowned birthplace of the dory to share the excitement of iceboating. We were warmly greeted by an enthusiastic crowd on the historic deck overlooking the Merrimack. Three seasoned iceboaters, two iceboats, and an eager crowd made for the perfect learning environment.
There were discussions about how iceboats fit into the history of boating. T whipped the crowd into a frenzy with tales from the gold fleet and a review of the differences between a 1960’s and modern DN.
The crowd broke up about 8:30 and everyone had a sense of wonder on their faces. Our reward was several audience members promising to come down to Thompson for the Swap Meet and capped off with a private tour of the Lowell Boat Shop.
See you Next Saturday…
NEIYA Swap Meet, Lunch & Meeting Information:
When: Saturday, October 26th, 10:00am
Where: Thompson Speedway Golf Course, 205 E Thompson Rd, Thompson, CT 06277
https://goo.gl/maps/DbGpTekm4ZLNnV8n7
Now is a perfect time to pay your 2025 dues and reserve your seat at our annual Luncheon and Meeting. All are welcome to attend.
Please Pay Your Dues
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2025 Membership | $30 |
 |
| 2025 Membership + Lunch | $45 |
|
| 2025 Membership + 2X Lunch | $60 |
|
| 2025 Lunch (11/19/2024) | $15 |
|
| Mail in Form We prefer you pay online – Thanks | ||
Do not wait till after the swap met to begin preparing for the season. It’s been a long summer and if you have not already shifted to thinking about iceboating, now is the time. Drag your gear out set it up in the driveway and be sure you have everything. Have anything extra in storage? Now is the perfect time to free up some storage. Put it up in the classified section. Remember your older equipment may be far better than what someone else has now.
Till then Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
2021 Hardway Reflection
Brewster Beach Wolfeboro 
Center Harbor 
Some Carnage 
A toast to Leo
Date 3/15/2021
Winds 15 with gusts to, you don’t really want to know.
Temperatures low 20s with the wind chill below zero
Bright sunshine
Fleet #19
29 participants sign up
Ice was scouted the week before with only one major barrier noted and that was a major pressure ridge off Welsh island going clear across the lake at the north end of the Broads. Cold nights over the weekend did some major repair while also opening up a few other minor hazards along the way.
Ice was scouted the week before with only one major barrier noted and that was a major pressure ridge off Welsh island going clear across the lake at the north end of the Broads. Cold nights over the weekend did some major repair while also opening up a few other minor hazards along the way.
Ice surface was rough appr. Grade 4 and solid
Skippers meeting was held at 10:15 and fleet left at 10:30
Directions were given to pick a sailing buddy and stay within quick closing distance in cease of assistance.
My phone number was given out and participants were told to text me if they turned back and were safe in harbor.
The first meetup was in the lee of Parker Island. The whizzes and J14s were there quickly and when I arrived they were ready to continue. I held back and waited for the remainder of the fleet to weather. The attrition rate was high as the main part of the big lake showed its power. A dozen boats from the second wave left shortly after the first sailing conservatively to the pressure ridge. A crossing was quickly found and we made our way up to 6 mile island. After a brief rest, we headed out again. The miniskeeters were having some problems and pulled into the lee of another island. After crossing another small break my sail came down as my halyard shackle had worked open from sail flapping I assume. The group continued up the lake while I ran sweep. After a quick rest and a check on the minis, I continued on only to have my mast fall down due to a quick pin on the forestay popping out. ( I Had just replaced the clevis I had in there yesterday. Lesson learned ) I then proceeded up the narrows and joined the fleet at Center Harbor at about 2:30. After a quick bite, the discussion was made about the return. There was great concern about running downwind and coming about to avoid hazards. About half the second wave decided to park their boats and hitch a ride back to Wolfeboro to get their cars.
Four of us started back under sail as a trial rounding up behind the first island to reassess our comfort level. One tried bare poling for a bit but decided he would rig and try again. Running dead down wind proved effective and we continued down the lake catching up to the minis as they were Body sailing back.(using their bodies as sails) They were making fair progress so we continued helping each other over some more minor ridges that had formed since morning. I made several loops back to check on the body sailors while the fleet continued on down to Parker for the final check. With everyone in sight we then rounded into the Wolfeboro bay for a congratulatory high five.
The minis get the red lantern award for being the last in.
The remaining sailors then gave a toast to Leo and we packed up for the day.
Respectively submitted,
Charles Silfvenius
Hardway Chairman
P.S. There will be some Hardway committee discussions in the months after the ice leaves us.
P.P.S. Commodores note, every Hardway is a collection of sailing tales from individual pilots. Additional stories to follow in the next few days.
Iron Duck Watch Party Weekend Starting NOW!
https://vimeo.com/ondemand/ironduck
Things are finally falling in place for our Iron Duck Documentary Featuring Bob Dill and Bob Schumacher. With the help of Director Ben Dolenic, I have arranged for a Watch Party (online) for NEIYA Members. The film and commentary will be available to watch at home or anywhere on the web between Friday (NOW) and 3:00pm Sunday. Find the 35 minutes and some extra to watch the interviews too.
If you know the Bob’s or heard of them you owe it to yourself to watch. It’s a great story. I was lucky to have been on Ivanpah the year after the record was broken. Unfortunately, after a couple runs the wing detached and there was a huge cloud of dust a few miles down the playa. I know I have pictures someplace and watching this film has given me the inspiration to find them.
Link to watch our film between today (NOW) and Sunday 3pm:
https://vimeo.com/477785917
Link to the Cast and Crew discussion panel: https://vimeo.com/481455128
Remember this is a member benefit. You will need the super-secret password. Members who have paid for the 2020-2021 Season can email me john@neiya.org. Hint hint, if I see a membership transaction come through I will respond with the passwords.
Think Ice and please stay safe,
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. After we have gorged and recovered from Turkey Day we will schedule another call with a focus on building. Date and time pending.
GO FAST GO, FASTER Call @ 7:00pm
As announced Sunday we are a GO for our Go Fast, Go Faster, Tune for Speed and Win conference call. Tonight 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
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Don’t put it off the season is coming.
Lost Photo Credit From Ames Farm 2010 – Don’t Forget Annual Gathering Meeting and Newbie Call Next Wednesday
Ames Farm launch Winnipesaukee 2010 Seeking Photographer
Anyone recognize the above picture? It was taken at Ames Farm on Winnipesaukee in 2010. Bill Buchholz from Maine and President of the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club is looking to track down the original picture for an iceboating book project he is working on.
If you have no idea where Ames Farm on Winni is you might just be a newbie and should be on our call next Wednesday details below.
Let the fun begin. Remember all members, non members, racers, cruisers, seasoned, and newbies welcome. Seriously if you have ever thought about iceboating this is the year to do something about it. Email me for password john@neiya.org.
Zoom Meeting Info:
Topic: Annual Gathering Venue & Newbie Intro
Time: Sep 30, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88295236307?pwd=TnE0a090RFZrVjVRa01zc1FSaUdXZz09
Meeting ID: 882 9523 6307
Passcode: Email John at john@neiya.org for password
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,88295236307#,,,,,,0#,,5023# US (New York)
Think Ice and be safe,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
1st Conference Call is Wed Sept 30th Its Newbie Night and Gather Venue Announcement
And you thought your travels are tough…
To clarify the Zoom meeting is next Wednesday, Sept 30th. Sorry about the confusion. Details below and just email or text me for the password.
John
All,
I know I said there would be an announcement on our annual gathering location but in typical iceboating fashion, we have to put off the announcement till next week. Some conditions have changed in the background and our first choice has fallen through.
Several people have expressed interest in or are new iceboaters this season. I would like to take the opportunity to welcome them and answer any questions during this zoom meeting. Don’t have a boat now is the time to start putting one together. Hope to have lots of newbies online next Wednesday. Please feel free to reach out to me directly.
Zoom Meeting Info:
Topic: Annual Gathering Venue & Newbie Intro
Time: Sep 30, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88295236307?pwd=TnE0a090RFZrVjVRa01zc1FSaUdXZz09
Meeting ID: 882 9523 6307
Passcode: Email John at john@neiya.org for password
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,88295236307#,,,,,,0#,,5023# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 882 9523 6307
Passcode: Email John at john@neiya.org for password
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/khaRTbGlE
Think Ice,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Of Mice, Ice and (Wo)Men – Holding on Oct 24th Meeting Venue Announcement
And you thought your travels are tough…
All,
I know I said there would be an announcement on our annual gathering location but in typical iceboating fashion, we have to put off the announcement till next week. Some conditions have changed in the background and our first choice has fallen through.
Several people have expressed interest in or are new iceboaters this season. I would like to take the opportunity to welcome them and answer any questions during this zoom meeting. Don’t have a boat now is the time to start putting one together. Hope to have lots of newbies online next Wednesday. Please feel free to reach out to me directly.
Zoom Meeting Info:
Topic: Annual Gathering Venue & Newbie Intro
Time: Sep 30, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88295236307?pwd=TnE0a090RFZrVjVRa01zc1FSaUdXZz09
Meeting ID: 882 9523 6307
Passcode: Email John at john@neiya.org for password
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,88295236307#,,,,,,0#,,5023# US (New York)
Dial by your location
+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
Meeting ID: 882 9523 6307
Passcode: Email John at john@neiya.org for password
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/khaRTbGlE
Think Ice,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Saturday Oct 24th – Fall (Socially Distant) Gathering ON!
Eric Aho: Ice Cuts (1932), 2010 Oil on linen / The ice, competitors, friends, and your boats are calling. Heed the call!
All,
Current members, past members, fellow iceboaters, those with any interest in iceboating, and those dealing with a loved one affliced with ice fever all are welcome to this years NEIYA Fall Gathering on Saturday October 24th.
I do not have to remind everyone that things are different this year and understand that some people legitimatly may not want to attend a traditional gathering. These concerns have weighed heavy on myself and the managment commitee but everyone of us want to make it happen. And so it shall be.
Things will be different this year as we navigate state the and local regulations and even more important our own comfort levels.
We will be holding a short Zoom meeting next Thursday evening to discuss the venue and the upcoming season. All are welcome. Please email me for details.
If you have any thoughts or concerns please reach out to me directly.
Think Ice,
John
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
A Harbinger to the 2021 Season
Comet Neowise C/2020 F3 Photo Credit: Mike Acebo
I can’t speak for everyone but know many of us have been looking for answers. Since the beginning of time man has looked to the stars. I got a great glimpse of the comet in July. Comets have been and still are considered harbingers. Comet Neowise C/2020 F3 is the harbinger of fast-moving ice and water and a great iceboating season to come. Thanks to Mike Acebo for his frozen water comet picture.
We have been agonizing over our annual meeting for well over a month. Staying optimistic has not changed the grim realities of the COVID-19 virus. Let’s remember that is we are iceboaters. We persevere through the adverse, press on through the night and early morning hours, and find a way to make it happen.
That said, we have scheduled the gathering for October 24th. Due to circumstances, the format will be different and the venue at this moment is not firm. Kind of like iceboating in general. I promise the venue will be somewhere in New England and certainly not in Montana. Though I know some would drive that far to attend. Our gathering will be held in a safe, legal, and responsible manner.
We will announce the venue and additional particulars on Thursday, September 24th via our website. Stay tuned.
Can’t make the event? We will be holding a series of online events covering various topics and hosted by some of our resident experts. More details to come. Topics include but not limited to how to get started, connecting equipment buyers and sellers (online open-air iceboat marketplace), building and maintenance, race prep, race tactics, and more… Suggestions are welcome of course and if you want to host a topic just let me know.
Stay Safe & Sail Fast,
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
john@neiya.org
And They’re Off
Photo and video courtesy Purshaw Lake resident Caryn
All,
I received an email from a local Purshaw Lake resident last night asking about the racing that was going on. She was kind enough to send along a video from her back porch earlier today. This video was shot from about halfway up the lake.
Bill Buchholz the NEIYA’s Cruising Chairman and the President of the Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club is the official organizer of the 100-mile Regatta. Further news and results will be published on CIBC’s site https:/iceboat.me later today.
Stay tuned for the Canadian DN Nationals report from T and Karen. Let’s see how our remaining ice survives the warm weather. Keep the faith for at least one more sail.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Late Breaking Ice Report From NH
All,
Not in Maine getting ready for the restart of the 100 Miler on Purshaw tomorrow. Jonesing for some ice? This just in from Charlie S. in New Hampshire. A group of sailors will be sailing Lake Wentworth in Wentworth, NH tomorrow. Best put in just up from the State Park toward Rt28 or at the state beach. Its a small lake you will figure it out.
Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Some Odds & Ends From The DN Gold Cup
All,
Below are a few items that T wanted to pass along but somehow didn’t make the 3700+ air miles journey.
2020 DN Gold Cup Site, Orsa Lake, Sweden
And the word of the day was wet…
wet
Wet…
I am sure we will have more from Osla Lake tomorrow.
This Weekends Gatherings Feb 1st & 2nd
Remember, there are hazards among what looks like good ice. Winnipesaukee scouting image (1/30/20) by veteran, sailor, skater, and scouter Randy Rice.
Ice scouts have been busy all week and come back with some good and some not so good news.
Here is what I know and where you can expect to meet up with fellow iceboaters.
Winds are going to be on the lighter side and increasing through the weekend across our sailing areas but fine for the smoother areas and well one never knows so just show up.
- The CIBC (iceboat.me) has been sailing Damarascota this week and likely through the weekend. Wind may be an issue so check their site for updates
- Winnipesaukee has been checked, sailed and skated every day this week. There are good conditions and will play host to the DN New Englands – Launch is Ellacoya State Park, note it may be crowded so use the ramp area for unloading and loading ONLY. Other launch sites are being investigated but not confirmed at this point.
Quaboag PondFirst-hand reports came in yesterday and it is trashed. Lots of pressure ridges, open leads and generally sub-par ice thickness STAY OFF unless something changesBantam LakeHas been looked at all week and generally has a good surface but is too not thick enough.- Sunapee, waiting on first-hand reports
There is a possibility for the Hardway to run over the weekend more likely Sunday than Saturday. As previously reported this is not a sure thing so please do not be disappointed if those who have been monitoring the ice elect not to lead the event.
See you on the ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Wednesday 1/29 Ice Recap
2019 Hardway Trail – Can we do it again this year? Maybe…
With the rain followed by cold, it is a whole new ball game out there. Reported and unreported scouting efforts have been going on since yesterday and will continue.
Here is where we are this is not an exhaustive list:
- The CIBC (iceboat.me) reports they are sailing Damarascota today and likely through the weekend. Check their site for updates
- Winnipesaukee was checked yesterday and a bigger scouting party went out this morning – There is a possibility of the Hardway being run, stay tuned. We do not really know at this stage but keep it in mind.
- Quaboag Pond needs to be checked and there is a committed scout bringing back info for sailing this weekend
- Bantam Lake smoothed out with the rain and is being checked and has potential for sailing this weekend
- Sunapee, as reported Monday more cold, is needed and body needs to be checked again – there are eyes on the lake
There may be a few other options out there that have been unreported but what I have to report at the moment.
Remember, the Hardway is only an alert at this stage. More info to come. Our own 2020 DN North American Champion and Race Chair may hold a race as well. Stay tuned for word from T on that.
Looking forward to more ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Andover winter fest today
Its going on now. We are setting up boats on shore and talking it up.
Come on out join the fun and promote iceboating.
John
Historic Day For The NEIYA
2020 DN NA Podium: Thieler, Sherry, and Atkins
I do not want to steal T’s thunder and he will fill in the details on the drive home but thBrie results are official. James “T” Thieler is this year’s DN North American Champion! Multiple World and NA Champion Ron Sherry. Chad Atkins who had been leading the regatta till the final day ended up third. Way to go New England! Congratulations to Karen Binder for earning her way into the Gold Fleet on her first attempt. She is a strong competitor and will have continued success at every attempt. Closet racer took Fifth in the Silver Fleet. Looks like Bill really caught the racing bug and as many know it is terminal. Look for other New England competitors here. http://dniceboat.org/2020/na.html Looking forward to the details from those that were there.
Meanwhile, 2200 miles away 25+ sailors enjoyed a fourth day of sailing on Lake Winnipesaukee. Overnight temperatures hovered around freezing so the plate was softening up but the wind was up making it the fastest of the four days.
Brian’s daughter Bella was out sailing and I’m told she is outgrowing her boat. Good thing her father is a master builder… A couple boats returned to New England Ice with new owners. Returning to the ice were Hal Chamberlain’s Hicdic and Roger LIvingston’s Whiz. Way to keep their memory alive guys.
Heavy rain will put us in shape for next weekend. Stay tuned.
Till we sail,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Sailing 2k Miles Away and Closer to Home Coming Soon!
Eric, Eben, Karen, and T trying their best to be good while passing through the Bad Lands of ND Sunday.
While our intrepid shake the road dust out of their hair and start tuning up for the DN North Americans at Fort Peck MT, we have Winni coming into season.
Initial reports are good and the locations will be scouted Tuesday morning by Lee Spiller. Stay tuned for reports here and on the CIBC’s iceboat.me.
If things turn out as planned we could be on this lake for a few days of fun and some potential races. Lay your gear out, pack and get ready to roll.
Stay tuned,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Bantam has skimmed over and maybe sailable for the weekend. Eyes are on it. Any other places out there leave a comment.
Quabaug Checked yesterday
Sorry for late notice but figured someone people may be able to sail last minute on a Tuesday.
Bob S reported this morning. “checked quaboag yesterday 5 to 6 inches sailed the north end for 3 hrs. going back today check south side wind permitting.
Quaboag lake Brookfield ma.”
Be sure to check with Bob or locals before venturing out. Quaboag has know hazzards that must be respected.
Can this survive fri and saturdays thaw? Who knows get it while its there.
John
John@neiya.org
P. S. Bob thanks for sharing!
Quaboag Sunday Coming Up
quaboag 12 25 2016
Quabaug Pond in Brookfield MA was scouted from end to end but the wind just didnt cooperate. There will be a group returning tomorrow morning.
See you there.
Come on down rig up and sail.
There is bound to be a good crowd out there so sail heads up!
Please let us know you plan on coming in the poll below and leave your fellow iceboaters a comment below.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
Sailing tomorrow Sabattus, ME
Glommed from cibc and facebook
Lee Spiller sent this photo of the ice he found on Custer Pond maine (AKA Sabattus Pond) in Sabattus. Lee skated the lake top to bottom and reports 3 to 4 inches of ice mostly grade 9. The lake has not been sailed, as always caution is to be used. The boat ramp is located on the southwest side of the lake just northwest of the town of Sabattus at Martin Point off Lake Street. Lee plans to sail tomorrow as do I. Winds are forecast to 5 to 6 MPH with possible rain starting around 4PM. Info on the lake can be found at lakesofmaine.org search for town of Sabattus.
There are reports of some rough spots but worth the sail.
Its early in the season, be careful.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P. S. If you are planning on going leave a comment below.
Annual Tune-Up Saturday December 14th
He came at me from there…
The First Ice award once again goes to the CIBC gang who sailed Plymouth Pond yesterday. Is NH and VT close behind? Time will tell. In the mean time get ready get ready get ready.
This year’s Tune-up will be in December and eventhough some will have sailed by than many will not have been lucky with local ice. We have a full agenda planed. Make plans to be there.
TUNE-UP CLINIC AGENDA DECEMBER 14, 2019 LAMB FAMILY HEADQUARTERS!
10:30 Paul Zucco – How to build a fast and durable DN Plank
Paul will share secrets learned over 30 years of plank building
11:00 Eben Whitcomb – Runner Prep
Eben will take you through the steps necessary to hit the ice with Sharp, and Fast Runners
He will demonstrate sharpening and Honing
11:30 Steve Madden & Greg Cornelious – Safety On the Race Course
Right of Way rules to keep us all safe and discussion of what to look out for at the weather mark
and Leward mark.
12:00 James “T” Thieler & Jeff Kent – Rig tune and trim secrets
Two of the BEST and really, really fast guys available anywhere will take us through
rig tune, shifting gears, and sail trim.
Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
Best Known Ice Coming From CIBC In Maine
With record cold being reported from the NOAA Gray/Portland, ME Office this week it is not surprising that ice is setting up. Bill from CIBC has issued a report on Plymouth Pond in Plymouth Maine. Check in on https://iceboat.me/ for Details.
Nothing coming in for VT nor NH at this time. There is ice but nothing sailable.
Remember it’s early-season so be careful. We do not have a thick base and conditions will change from moment to moment.
More info next week.
Side note, a blue jacket ended up in one of the boxes I brought home from the annual meeting a couple weeks ago let me know if its your.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Looking Forward To 2020 & Over My Shoulder
Nothing like the first real cold and snow flurries to jolt one into iceboat mode. My work colleges do not quite understand, they never do, so I showed them the Thunder Bay video from earlier in the week. https://youtu.be/VUWgdQA6dAw Unfortunatly their minds are on deliveries south and cruising in the Caribbean. But we know better and look forward to first ice.
Today’s note is two-fold looking forward and looking a little back.
Looking forward
In less than a month Steve Lamb will once again host the annual off ice tune-up clinic. Mark your calendar’s Saturday, December 14th, Arthur C. Lamb Co., Canton, MA. The timing should be perfect for securing last-minute tune-up tips and propel us into full iceboat mode. Rick Bishop will be getting the full agenda out in a few days.
Looking Back
This year’s Annual Meeting and swap meet was very well attended. We successfully filled a bigger parking lot at our new (second year) venue in Hudson NY. Two boat legends changed hands, Hal Chamberlain and Roger Livingston’s boats have new caretakers. Good luck gentlemen. Sail Fast and make their former owners proud.
Lunch began shortly after the swap meet hoard were herded into the meeting room. We left the usual abstaining crowd in the lot. Maybe they had more fun out there but the real show featured chicken, Swedish meatballs, the usual sides and boat talk. But it was not as much about the food as the crowd of people all gathered together to talk mostly about iceboating past and future. Mixed well amongst the NEIYA veterans was six brand new members eager to join in.
Commodore T kicked off the meeting with his usual style and grace and believe it or not the jokes were clean.
The next part of the meeting was fun, prizes and safety-related. Yours truly raffled off safety items that Landfall (www.landfallnavigation.com shameless plug) helped bring to our meeting. Safety tip of the day, carry a whistle. Be sure that it does not have a pea that can clog or freeze up making it worthless. Jay Whitehair was up next with his VT first responder ice bucket challenge. Jay talked about the effects of Hypothermia and what you should do and how to safely help someone else. Jay, thanks for the good tips for all the potential swimmers out there.
The required business portion of the meeting rolled along smoothly and we tried to make it as painless as possible especially for those that are new, just having lunch, or easily distracted.
T talked about local racing this past season which was a little challenging but last year’s New Englands did happen late last year up in Maine. The same may occur this year. Get ready to roll on a moment’s notice as December may just deliver a good plate for race and cruising.
While conditions for racing did not materialize Charlie Silvanus was able to pull off the Hard Way for the second year in a row. Bill Buchholz presented signed certificates of completion. Kate Marrone will be putting the Hardway recap on the web in the next week or so. So read the details there and get ready for the next attempt. Could there be a Winni Spring Fling in 2020? It’s been way way too long so let’s hope so and stay tuned.
Eben Whitcomb representing the nominating commitee put forth the recommended slate for the 2020 season. Some well known and some new blood was proposed.
Commodore: John Stanton
Vice Commodore: Jay Whitehair
Secretary: Karen Binder
Treasurer: Bob Haag
The slate was presented and no additional candidates were nominated from the floor. Motions to accept nominations and vote were put forward electing the slate.
I am proud to be the next NEIYA Commodore and look forward to serving the club and ice boaters en masse. I have spoken personally with many of you and heard what you are saying both positive and areas needing improvement. I’m already working on the weather thing and planning for a solid plate of ice from the big lakes in Maine clear down to the New Jersey shore. Wish I really could make that promise but… I do want to be sure that we communicate as a tight group and will publish where people are sailing on a weekly basis. It’s all about the people. I am committed to making this happen. With Karen’s help as well as Deane Williams who is helping out on the web we will make it so. Our Cruising Chairman Bill Buchholz always plays a key roll in getting the word out for Maine ice and is a fine example of cooperation and sharing ice related information.
We started a tradition a couple years ago with the honoring of Leo Healey, who regrets that he could not make it to this year’s meeting. This year we honored Lloyd Roberts. If you know Lloyd than you know what a fine gentleman and iceboater he is. In a couple words, he wrote the book. Think Ice originally published in 1980 and later updated in 1985 and 1997 (Millenium Edition). Rumor has it that there is a new edition coming out in a year or so but it really is quite up to date. Think Ice is available direcly from The Chickawaukie Ice Boat Club HERE
Lloyd, I appreciate knowing you as a friend and fellow iceboater for the past 20+ years. Sorry for the low audio. I hope you can hear the words of admiration and if you can not know that the NEIYA and all its members hold you in the highest regard. We look forward to sailing with you this season.
On behalf of myself, Jay Whitehair, Karen Binder, and Bob Haag have a great 2020 iceboat season and see you on the ice.
Think Ice,
John Stanton
NEIYA Commodore
Dn5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. If you have not paid your 2020 dues please do today.
| Description | Price | |
| 2020 Membership | $30 |
|
New England Ice Yacht Association 