From the Poop Deck
Seaworthy Ideas and Stuff
Paul Kurkowski
Ahoy mates. I sure hope it’s been a good season for all of you. You have to admit that the sailing gods were kind to us this season. The weather did arrange to be in our favor darn near every weekend. Of course, the rain and wind did manage to show their worst when I was on vacation from work. 1.25 inches of rain in four hours is like, wow, a lot. I know that Barb and I were not alone when it came to unpleasant conditions when on vacation. On a positive spin, the large amounts of rain (especially up north) did aid in the enjoyable water level of our Lake St. Clair. I only “went to mud” one time and I should have because I erred in navigation.
Ah, ‘tis that time of the year and the natural fall and rise of the lake water level is in the fall mode. The only way to prevent that would be to dam the Niagara River and ruin honeymoons.
The latest “buzz” around the lake was actually the sound of an airplane that crash-landed in Muscamoot Bay on August 21. You have to understand that this was not an amphibious plane; a barge is being dispatched to remove it from the power boater’s playground. Pilot and passenger were uninjured due to weeds acting like a safety net. Local fish may not have been as lucky.
You may have noticed on your last visit to Metro Beach the US Coast Guard Border Patrol boat; apparently, this must be a hot spot for illegals entering our border. It’s either that or the border guards just like it there for the scenery. After all, when was the last time you have seen illegals rollerblading in your neighborhood. Just kidding fellas. The Task at hand is an enormous responsibility.
Speaking of the border patrol, soon the St. Clair Station will have a new 33-foot vessel with three 225 horsepower engines capable of speeds of 68 knots. That alone should impress those who try to interfere with our freedoms.
Soon there will be a chill in the air and the fires of evening gatherings will fill our surroundings with the smoke of conversation of what was and of what will be. Six more weeks of being on the water is about what is left. One cruise and couple of races remain. As the long shadows approach, it is time to make the most of our sailing season. Soon we will be dry docked in winter’s gloom.
See you all at the CRCA International.
That’s it for now. Casting off all lines. Color me gone.
Paul Kurkowski “Space Hunter”
Hi Everyone! Just one more cruise left now. See the invitation from Glen and Becky Ellison below. We’ve added a review of the summer’s cruising activities to help you think back on an enjoyable summer.
Gayle Locke “Knight’n Gayle” (586) 431-7017
2006 Cruise Year In Review
Fun Race and Picnic at Markley Marina (Saturday, June 3)
The race and picnic were held later in the year than in the past. Surprise! The weather did not present its' usual 20 knots of wind with cloudy, 50 degree temperatures. The race, with only one sail allowed, was fairly quick around the course with a fun crew. A great time was time was had by all with good food, great friends, and a very animated club meeting.
Windsor – (Saturday, June 10)
Great cruise! A little chilly on the Quay, but the CRCA camaraderie kept us warm. After visits to the casino and bingo parlor our crews were in comfortable shape. Nobody bought a new boat and nobody had to sell their’s.
Metro Beach (Saturday June 17)
The Woodward Dream Cruise on Metro's docks? You bet! Wow – All acclaimed Adventure's awesome grill and the Dream Cruise parking lot on Zingara's bow.
Radlin's Marina (Saturday & Sunday July 1 & 2)
The summer heat was upon us and the Radlin's swimming pool was a great place to cool off. Nautical trivia tested the mettle of captains and crew. The annual pancake breakfast, with pancake bears, was again a hit with everyone.
Belle River Marina (Saturday July 15)
The weather cooperated as the fleet landed in Belle River. We had our creativity tested as various construction materials provided for designing, building, and racing miniature boats in the “Junk Regatta.” The Race was hotly contested as dinghies circled to pick up the creations as they crossed the finish line, or not.
Cove Marina (Saturday August 12)
It was a pleasant surprise when the CRCA fleet docked at newer metal docks with a covered picnic pavilion. Pictionary was the challenge for all. Reports are that Cove and the metal docks were a hit and a return to them may be great for next year.
Raft-Off/Dinghy Cruise (Saturday August 26)
The weather threatened to destroy the raft-off but could not dampen the enthusiasm. Fun spun out of control in an impromptu water gun fight as the dinghies circled for the start of the dinghy cruise. It was a real soaker. John and Laura Pecha held a renaming ceremony for their new to them Catalina 30, now named Windependance. Jello shots magically appeared, 120 syringes consumed, to add to the festivities.
Cruise Leaders – Glen & Becky Ellison (586) 463-7876
We invite you for a Halloween rendezvous at Metro Beach Marina. This will be the final of the season. No reservation is required, just show up. Location will be the South Marina area. That’s the first dockage you get to as you enter the marina. CRCA will be providing a tent this year with walls and two tables but bring your own chairs. Judging will be held for pre-carved
pumpkins based on originality and uniqueness. Lets see who can compete with Larry this year. Costumes are optional and a prize will be awarded for the best. Costumes can be decorating the boat not just the person. There will be a potluck gathering around 4 pm so bring a dish to pass along with serving spoons. Lets try to be light on deserts. Paper plates, bowls, forks, spoons and napkins will be provided in limited amount. A fire pit will be available for cooking of the hot dogs and marshmallows provided by us. Bring your own skewer. So come via water or land everyone is welcome. After dark old time horror movies will be viewed. Hope to see you all there.
