January, 1956

Editor Arthur Arms discusses various administrative matters affecting the Thistle Class, including an upcoming appearance at the New York Boat Show, meeting schedule changes, and editorial notes on boat builders and sailing improvements. He emphasizes the importance of Fleet Secretaries submitting annual reports and addresses publishing challenges and budget concerns.

An informational article directed at Fleet Secretaries regarding their responsibilities for collecting and maintaining fleet membership records, submitting reports to the national office, and coordinating activities for the Bagpipe and Year Book. The article explains the value of accurate fleet records and the proper procedures for maintaining and reporting on fleet membership.

A historical retrospective on the early days of the Bagpipe publication and Thistle Class, including the story of how Jack Snell became the first real editor and ran a literary contest that produced a winning cruising narrative from a family's first Thistle sailing experience in 1947.

A collection of classified advertisements and listings for boat sales, featuring various Thistle boats and sailing equipment available for purchase from Class members.

An article advocating for cruising as a primary use of Thistles, highlighting the boat's comfort and seagoing capability. The author presents evidence of successful cruising voyages and urges the Thistle community to document and share cruising experiences, offering a paid membership award for the best cruise story submitted for publication.

A report on Fleet 2's Annual Icebreaker Series held on the Detroit River, which concluded the 1955 racing season. The article details the conditions, winner Warner Giles from the University of Colorado, and provides comprehensive race standings showing competitive performances across three races.

A technical column by Roger Waite of Rocky River discussing various boat improvements and sailing gadgets. The article covers a turnbuckle jaw design contributed by Logan Goar, a stainless steel rod system from Jack Barnes, boom vang designs discussed by Corinthian Waite and Ted Wells, and various other modifications to improve Thistle performance and handling.

By Merritt Giles, Secy of Fleet #31. Fleet #31, sailing on beautiful Pymatuning Reservoir waters in northwestern Pennsylvania, gave their 1955 trophy to a new champion, Warner Giles of New Castle, Pennsylvania, an undergraduate at the University of Colorado. The article describes the competitive racing conditions and standings of the series.

A humorous anecdote about crew members being accidentally left out of a boat and a skipper's playful conversation about needing bagpipes for future sailing. The piece highlights a lighthearted exchange between crew members.

A report on a team race competition held at the California District Championships in December, involving Thistle boats sailing from Newport-Balboa. The article details the competitive racing conditions, tactical sailing, and race results with standings showing strong participation from California fleets.