February – March 2005

Blair Dryden reflects on Midwinters East, recounting stories of returning sailors like John Lovett and cousins John and Steve Sackett, and discussing the history of Thistle racing in the Michiana District.

Craig Smith describes the Thistle Crew University program established in Southeastern Pennsylvania to train new crew members and grow participation in the fleet. He includes testimonials from program graduates who became active Thistle sailors.

Eric Gesner provides seasonal boat maintenance advice for spring preparation and outlines measurement requirements for the 2005 Nationals including specifications for weight, sail measurements, and safety equipment.

Michael Gillum provides detailed technical guidance on constructing safe slings and eye-strap attachments for hoisting Thistles, based on observations at MWE and proven methods used by experienced sailors.

Mike Gillum reflects on returning to edit the Bagpipe after ten years, discusses his attendance at MWE 2005 with his wife Mardi, and thanks TCA volunteers for maintaining the organization and the Bagpipe as the "glue" holding the class together.

Official Notice of Race for the 2005 Youth and Women's National Championships to be held July 30, 2005 at Lavallette Yacht Club in New Jersey, including eligibility requirements, measurement specifications, and race schedule.

Comprehensive coverage of the 50th Anniversary Midwinters East regatta held February 26-March 4, 2005 at St. Petersburg Yacht Club, including race reports for all eight races and final standings for 63 competing boats.

Jan MacLean presents the Ted Tolson Award, given to significant contributors to Thistle Midwinters East racing events, to Judy and Norm Altenhoff for their years of volunteer work including sail measuring, race committee service, and event coordination.

Carol Kitchin celebrates 50 years of Midwinters East hosted in Florida, highlighting the strong family participation, multi-generational Thistle sailors, and the special community that the regatta creates for the Thistle Class.

Report on the Orange Peel Regatta held March 18-20, 2005 in Jacksonville, Florida, featuring a Coach TCA clinic, competitive racing, social events, and results from 28 participating boats.

An account of Thistle sailors Dave Murray and Leah Hoffman's wedding celebration combined with sailing events at Seneca Lake, creating a unique regatta-like weekend for the Thistle community.

Announcement that the "Valla Fund" will subsidize $50 of the entry fee for any Thistle skipper under 21 years of age participating in the 2005 Lavallette Nationals.

Comprehensive guide to accommodations for the 2005 Nationals at Lavallette, New Jersey, explaining housing options including house rentals, hotels, and RV parking with rates and location details.

Classified advertisements and announcements including boat equipment sales, marine services, and membership information for the Thistle Class Association.