April/May 1995

President Dave Valla discusses the recently published 1995 National Championship qualifications, explaining the selection process and 50-boat limit. He emphasizes the importance of skippers at all levels working to promote the class through R&D boat development.

Loren Hoffmann discusses strategies for the Thistle Class to grow membership and participation, particularly for the 50th anniversary Nationals. He addresses qualification concerns and emphasizes the importance of increasing R&D boats in districts to boost participation at all levels.

A listing of new Thistle Class members from various regions, organized by district.

Chief Measurer Lloyd Kitchin discusses his background and passion for sailing and caring for his family. He shares his sailing experience at various clubs and his commitment to being a dedicated chief measurer.

Editor Mardi Gillum reflects on her decision to take on the editor role and discusses her passion for Thistle sailing. She explains the importance of high-quality content in the Bagpipe and seeks contributions from the membership.

A compilation of brief news items and announcements including information about Thistle sailors in publications, championship results, and class-related news.

Collection of letters to the editor from Thistle sailors discussing various topics including bulletin boards, fleet news, and boat restoration projects.

Official minutes from the Thistle Class Association mid-year governing board meeting held in St. Petersburg, Florida. Covers discussion of qualifications for the 1995 Nationals, by-laws changes, and various administrative matters.

Don Schaffner shares his personal journey of owning and restoring vintage wooden Thistles, including his boat #1313 (Black Cloud), reflecting on sailing accomplishments and the joy of maintaining classic boats.

Brief advisory reminding sellers of Thistles to inform new owners about the Thistle Class Association and help them measure and register their boats properly.

Official financial statement for the Thistle Class Association for September 30, 1994, showing revenues and expenses.

Steve Blair discusses starting a Thistle-only bulletin board on the Internet for real-time communication among Thistle sailors. He provides details about subscription methods and potential future improvements to digital connectivity.

Product announcement for the Jibmaster jibsheet cleat designed for one-design sailing, highlighting its features and pricing.

Historical account of Thistle Fleet 65 at Cowan Lake, Ohio, celebrating its 40-year existence including notable sailors like Olympic medalists and past championship winners.

Rookie sailor George Samuels shares eight humorous lessons learned from his first Mid-Winters West regatta, including advice about equipment, weather, and racing etiquette.

Report of the 41st annual Julep Cup regatta hosted by the Louisville Sailing Club in Prospect, Kentucky, featuring race results and conditions.

Account of the first annual Larry Klein Memorial Regatta hosted by Mission Bay Yacht Club as a match racing event to honor the late Thistle sailor. Describes exciting racing conditions and the emotional tribute to Klein.

Comprehensive report of the 1995 Midwinters West regatta held at Mission Bay with detailed race results, weather conditions, and highlights of top finishers.

Report of the first annual Lake Washington Sailing Club Sea & Ski Regatta, held at Sacramento, California, combining skiing and sailing competition with detailed results.

DOZEN SERIES article providing photographic examples and detailed advice on practical maintenance and storage solutions for protecting Thistle sails, components, and equipment.

Special retrospective section featuring reprinted articles from past Bagpipe issues (1979-1980) celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Thistle Class, including proposed amendments, historical rulings, and a humorous narrative about skipper challenges.

A strategic planning checklist to help Thistle sailors gather information and prepare for racing by collecting evidence about wind, water, and course conditions.

Classified advertisements for Thistle boats for sale, equipment, sails, covers, and related services including boat-building and restoration services.