February/March 1997

Schauble discusses how the core of the Thistle Class is sailboat racing, but emphasizes that fun must remain central to participation. He offers fleet management strategies including raising the learning curve with Coach TCA programs, creating varied awards and trophies, and varying racing formats to maintain engagement and prevent the sport from becoming work.

Schauble emphasizes the importance of a dynamic fleet newsletter as a tool for building participation and enthusiasm. He provides practical advice on publishing newsletters, from content suggestions to software tips, and stresses the need for regular deadlines and consistent distribution to maintain member engagement.

Editor Lawrence discusses winter activities and snow as signs of the season, then solicits article contributions. She references a 1976 Bagpipe article by Tom Keinath about the magazine's role as a communications medium, noting that Thistlers are encouraged to write articles for the publication and highlighting a new "Piper's Spotlight" column featuring Thistlers.

A miscellaneous section featuring several brief items: an announcement about Secretary's Sweepstakes winners (John Fenno and Nora White), a report of a stolen Thistle 1433, news about Fleet Builders working on new fleets, and early regatta announcements.

A photo essay with commentary about Nationals Round Table discussions and party scenes, featuring images and captions of people at social events, including discussions with Dave Dellenbaugh and Kyle Finefrock about boat protection rackets and trophy awards.

A two-panel photograph article about social gatherings related to the Thistles Class, showing people at events.

A humorous letter to the editor from Ron Small expressing qualified respect for Dave Dellenbaugh but listing humorous reasons why he sometimes wishes to dislike him, including Dellenbaugh being smarter, faster, better looking, and younger.

A listing of upcoming Thistle racing events and regattas scheduled for May through August.

Pete Case from San Diego Yacht Club has been selected as Race Chairman for the 1997 Thistle Nationals. The article discusses the venue (Coronado Island's Loews Hotel), planned activities including a Friday night banquet and after-sailing parties with themes like Caribbean Night and Highland Fling, accommodations, and new websites for planning.

Originally published in July-August 1975, this reprint by former TCA President Charlie Steigerwald explains how Thistlers can get involved in class administration at the fleet, district, and national levels. He emphasizes that local fleet enthusiasm is the foundation of the class and encourages participation in administrative roles beyond racing.

Fleet 69's Thistle promotion event on November 3 was successful, featuring races at Balboa Yacht Club, display boats including classic wooden Thistles and modern designs, guest speakers, and demo rides. The event generated significant interest and attracted both spectators and prospective members interested in learning about Thistles.

Based on Fleet 68's successful open house event, this article outlines planning and promotional strategies including venue selection, materials to prepare, media outreach, and specific tactics for engaging potential Thistle owners and sailing enthusiasts.

Blair describes the development of Thistle Class online resources including an email list, World Wide Web server, and comprehensive online presence. He chronicles the technical challenges overcome to establish these digital communication tools that serve the Thistle community, from basic email lists in 1995 to a full website by 1997 with multiple features and resources.

Bauman explains winter boat storage strategies for Thistlers in different regions, from year-round sailing in the South to complete winterization in the North. He discusses options including doing maintenance incrementally, hiring professional help, getting a second boat, forming buddy systems for repairs, and other practical approaches to manage the off-season effectively.

Report on the Mission Bay Yacht Club Invitational in January with results showing top finishers in challenging sailing conditions. The article celebrates competitive racing among skilled sailors and describes the event's atmosphere with technical details about race conditions and performances.

A travel narrative about sailboat racing at Lake Arrowhead in the Rim of the World Regatta Series. Erickson describes the beautiful mountain setting, the founding and growth of the series, and the camaraderie among sailors at this unique California venue, including details about race formats and social events.

Dexter reports on the East Coast Fall Series held over eight weekends at Red Dragon Canoe Club, highlighting champion Brent Barbehenn's five wins. The article discusses competitive highlights, notable performances, and emphasizes the series' role in growing upstate New York Thistle participation through leadership and friendly competition.

Listing of boats for sale, marine products, and miscellaneous services available from Thistle Class members. Includes classic and modern Thistle boat listings with specifications and contact information, as well as sailing-related services and products.