February/March 1996

The president reflects on exciting times for the Thistle Class, featuring coverage in major sailing magazines, the 50th Anniversary and Nationals, and a new boat design proposal. He discusses the need for strategic dialogue among classes about membership, resources, and fleet growth.

The editor discusses the post-Christmas period as a slow time for Thistle activities, announces Nationals planning details, and introduces new regular features including a 'Profiles' column and contributions from various Thistlers. She also shares information about available resources and encourages reader participation.

A section highlighting announcements and opportunities including the Secretary's Sweepstakes winner, a contest definition, and information about the Thistle homepage and how to submit content.

A contest offering a $25 prize for the best definition of a Thistle sailor, asking entrants to define the qualities that make Whistlers friendly, outgoing, and nice people.

A section featuring Allan Gowans discussing the building of a new Thistle fleet in the Research Triangle Area of North Carolina, including fleet goals, core foundation principles, and genesis of the fleet.

A detailed account of the Research Triangle Area Thistle Fleet's first year, including their ambitious goals for fleet growth, social activities, and member recruitment. The article profiles founding members and their motivations for building the fleet, along with activities designed to attract new sailors.

A listing of new Thistle owners welcoming them to the class association across three fleets: Florida, Lake Michigan, and Southern California.

An announcement and detailed information about the 1996 Thistle National Championship at Fort Walton Yacht Club in Florida, including race course descriptions, accommodation options, and activities planned for the event.

A section containing various announcements, poems, and stories shared within the Thistle community, including a wedding announcement, historical sailing stories, and poetry about racing experiences.

A comprehensive checklist and guide for fleet captains detailing their responsibilities throughout the year, from January planning through end-of-season activities, including regatta organization, membership management, and communication duties.

A detailed technical article explaining slab reefing systems for Thistles, comparing different reefing methods and providing specific measurements for implementation, along with diagrams showing the mechanical advantages and rigging requirements.

A collection of personal sailing stories and reflections from multiple Thistlers describing pivotal and memorable moments in their Thistle sailing careers, including early experiences, family sailing, racing adventures, and the joys of the sport.

An article about sportsmanship in sailboat racing, emphasizing the importance of following rules, treating competitors with respect, and maintaining a positive attitude both during and after racing events.

A historical account of Midwinters West regattas from 1978 to 1995, highlighting notable conditions, winners, and memorable moments across multiple years of the popular annual event held in San Diego.

A section header introducing used boat marketplace information and regatta reports, designed to help Thistlers find boats and learn about buying/selling process through the Used Boat Clearinghouse.

A report on the Cave Run Lake regatta featuring 39 boats from multiple classes, race results, and descriptions of the beautiful lake setting and racing conditions, along with event results table.

A detailed report on the Wild Turkey Regatta in Georgia featuring 20 Thistles competing in beautiful weather with close racing and multiple race winners, along with complete results table.

A comprehensive report on the East Coast Fall Series featuring eight regattas across multiple locations, highlighting winners, memorable moments, and tributes to notable competitors, with a table of skipper rankings.

A report on the Mission Bay Fall Invitational regatta in San Diego featuring a record number of boats, diverse competing fleets, and notable performances by national champion Jack Franco and local competitors.

A humorous account of the Blowhard Regatta in Cincinnati featuring unexpected weather, racing in challenging wind conditions, and the social aspects of the event including food and costumes.

A report on the Cedar Point Yacht Club Fall Invitational regatta in Connecticut featuring 21 boats and describing the racing conditions, social activities, and final results.

Listings of Thistle boats for sale with detailed specifications, prices, and seller contact information, along with miscellaneous classified services including photocopying and boat advertising.