The latest Fleet Scuttlebutt

Since imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness (Oscar Wilde), I thought I’d imitate our commodore and provide the historical meaning of the word Scuttlebutt. Back in the early 1800s, the cask containing a ship's daily supply of fresh water was called a scuttlebutt (from the verb scuttle meaning "to cut a hole through" and the noun butt, also "cask"); that name was later applied to a drinking fountain on a ship or at a naval installation. As sailors gathered around the “drinking cask” they would share the latest gossip around what’s going on. We apply this term today around a water cooler and for the same reason! Now for the latest news!

We are in full swing with Adult sailing classes and have had folks on the water consistently through the summer. Our plan is to continue offering these classes through August and possibly into September. Several folks are progressing from Lasers to Albacores and getting familiar with the keel boats as well. If anyone wishes to use a club Laser or Albacore we have the reservation form on the website now and you can reserve a boat. Please let me know if you have any questions about this.

With the help of David Waldman and his dive skills and Ian Palmer topside, we were finally able to get the 4th mooring ball installed in the mooring field. The latest ball is directly in front of the club dock and available for use. I need to adjust the chain length but otherwise its ready for use. We inspected the others moorings as well and they seem to be in good shape and holding firm.

One issue we need to address is our fleet of runabouts. If you have, or know of anyone who may have a small runabout skiff ( like a 14’ Carolina) they might consider selling the club please get in touch with me. We are in need of a 3rd skiff as we have retired the Privateer ( I have a buyer for it) and need 3 boats for Jr. Sailing and for use during regattas. We have limped by this year (so far) with the help of Dave Brown and his Boston Whaler but we need a permanent solution. If you can help please contact me directly at (757) 349-5980.

Not much else to report as we are in full swing with Jr. Sailing classes and getting ready for the Governors Cup Regatta August 5th, 6th and 7th. If you are available to help please contact Layne Brown or Scott Titus as we can always use an extra hand somewhere.

Happy sailing,

Jim Garrett - Fleet