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Welcome to Beaver Lake Sailing Club, we hope you enjoy our website.  Our club is dedicated to providing a family atmosphere and the enjoyment of sailing in all forms. BLSC  is a participatory club with racing, social, cruising, and other sailing related activities which appeal to sailors of different skills, experience, and interests.

Commodore's Letter March 2009

Good Day Sailors,

As I’m certain that many of you can attest, this has been a long cold winter.  However, the days are growing longer as the sun transits north along its path brining the warmth of summer.  Warm days filled with sunshine are in our future no matter what the groundhog has predicted.  It won’t be long until we are able to enjoy a breeze and a beverage at the lake.

I have managed to steal a day or two and make a trip to the lake, primarily to walk the docks and make sure that the boats and club house are in good shape.  It appears that all the boats have survived the winter and will soon be ready for Spring cleaning and sailing. 

The events calendar has been published to the web and emailed to you as well.  This year, we have tried to combine many events in the hopes of bolstering more participation.  You will notice that when possible we have tried to combine a Saturday social event on the same weekend as a Sunday race.  Hopefully, many of your schedules will permit you to spend more time at the lake this year.  You’ll be able to arrive on Saturday and stay aboard if you choose for a Sunday race. 

We will be working on several different projects this year.  Particularly, and perhaps the most important project, will be a remodel of the club pavilion kitchen.  We have several experienced club members working on some ideas to improve the facility.   A proposal will be discussed at the next board meeting.  However, I can tell you this project involves a major refit.  Some of the items that are being discussed include running potable water to the sink as well as a small water heater.  This improvement alone will make it much easier for clean up.  There is some discussion about new cabinetry, electrical, and perhaps a new refrigerator.   You should see some progress on the project soon.  We’ll try to have it completed before the warm weather of summer. 

Most of the major electrical work was completed over the winter.  All of the docks are now serviced by underwater electrical cable.  Besides the removal of overhead wires, this is a major improvement in moving the docks to compensate for Beaver Lake’s capricious water levels.  Furthermore, the removal of heavy wire spools on the ramps of each dock will serve to facilitate dock adjustments while reducing the overall weight of the ramp.  These are great improvements.   Many of the safety concerns identified in a survey a couple of years ago have been addressed.  There are still a few more improvements to be made in the next year, but, by and large, we are essentially done with the electrical upgrades. 

We are studying the possibility of adding photo-cell/motion activated lights to the approaches of each dock.  Our goal is to provide some gentle lights ashore to light the paths to the docks.   We have studied some LED lights.  These provide excellent lighting without a significant increase to our electric bill.

We will continue to work hard on the landscaping.  We may add a new retaining wall near the ramp to facilitate a “beach”.  While trying to be as thrifty as possible, our plan is to add a place where the small dolphin and sunfish boats can be beached as well as place to relax near the water.  Once this project is completed, this will be a great addition to the club. 

Continuing with the landscaping process, the board would like to add some cedar fencing to obscure things like the BBQ smokers and propane tank.  Low cost, premade fence panels will help hide some of the more unsightly features around the club. 

I recognize that every club member has a special talent.  We can certainly use your help to continue improvements at the sailing club.  If you see a project that you would like to have completed, or one that you are particularly suited to do, please contact myself or a board member and discuss it.  It may just be something that can benefit everyone. 

Last year, we had 4 scheduled work days.  This year, there are only three scheduled.  Please make every effort to attend two work days.   Work days around the club are not only great chances to socialize with members from different docks, but they keep your membership costs down.   Labor costs to complete projects at the club are very costly, and your participation is important. 

Just like last year, we’ll have two regattas, one for the late spring, and one for the fall.  Save the date, the Founder’s Cup Regatta will be held on June 12 and 13th.  Similar to last year, this event will appeal to everyone.  We will have two full days of racing in a sprint format with 4 short races each day.  On Saturday night, we’ll share a catered dinner and live music. 

In October on the 9th, we will have the Susan G. Komen King of the Lake event.  This will be one long race with a catered dinner and live music.  Both of these regattas were a big hit last year, and I hope that you will mark the dates on your calendar and participate this year.

In closing, I’d like to say that it has been a privilege and a pleasure to serve as commodore for the past 2 seasons.  I’m looking forward to another great year in 2010. 

See you at the lake,

 

Michael Mangione

 

 

 

 

 

Commodores' Letter for Spring 2009

Welcome to the 2009 boating season.  As you can see from the calendar of events, the board of directors has increased the activities at the club.  The racing season will be similar to what we have done in the past with a few new additions.  In June, we’ll have a Founders Regatta.  This will be two days of sprint races with a catered party at the close of the first day of racing. These two days of shorter sprint racing will appeal to the racers who enjoy the adrenaline rush of the start—8 racing starts in two days.

In the fall, we’ll celebrate the King of the Lake race which will be a club fund raising event.  It will be catered as well with live music and a party after the race.

Both of these events will be open to members and guests.  The Board of Directors would like to see BLSC continue to grow and thrive. In 2008, we did not receive any applications for new members.  Therefore, BLSC club members should use these events to invite potential sailing club members to the club. 

We have tried to add one social event each month.  You will notice that beginning on March 7 we’ll start with a games night.  It is my hope that this event will carry on throughout the entire season.   We’ll have cards and board games in the club house.    In April, BLSC will host the 2nd Annual Commodore’s Chili Cook off and Swab Meet.  The rules for the chili cook off will be posted on the web later.  Last year, this event was well received and fun for everyone with prizes awarded for the best chili at BLSC.  The “Swab Meet” is a dock side garage sale with a chance for sailors to sell anything boat related.  It’s a great time to unload the overflowing dock box and clear out the clutter in the garage at home while making a little money.

Coincident with the Arkansas Cup Racing Series and the Fun Race, we’ll have 4 club sponsored Pot Luck events in 2009.  For club sponsored events, BLSC will spring for the main course.  Chicken, burgers, dogs and brats will be the fare.  Club members can bring the supporting dishes: casseroles, chips, deserts and such.   I am looking for a few volunteers to cook on these four nights.  Anyone interested?

We will also add some educational events during the year.  Tom Unger will be teaching a sail trim class in March.  The club will sponsor a CPR/AED/first aid course in May. The CPR class will require advance registration and will take nearly all day to complete.  There may be other educational events added later in the year. 

For the cruisers in our club there are many events geared specifically to sailing and having a great time without the pressure of racing.   On June 20, the club will celebrate Summer Sailstice with an afternoon sail and raft up.  In July, VC Bruce Smith will organize the Daisy Raft up (rafting in a big circle in the middle of the lake); we’ll need as many people to participate as we can.  The Fun Race last season was a hit according to all who participated.  No worries, just good fun and sailing on Beaver Lake.  Last year’s winners of the fun race will organize this event to be held in August.  Also in August, we’ll do another “Dive-In” movie.  Last year we projected Jimmy Buffet’s new DVD “Live in Anguilla” on a big screen, it was a big hit.  

There will be 4 scheduled work days this year.  It’s important that all members understand that they must make two of the four scheduled work days in order to avoid paying the $100.00 facilities charge.   If you are unable to make a work event, please contact me or a board member for a special work assignment to credit you for work day participation.  Everyone in the club has a unique ability and talent. 

The primary focus of work day events will center on landscaping and improving the overall club appearance.  We plan to move the fire pit away from the club house.  It will still be centrally located but ameliorate some of the smoke funneling into the club house.  This will also help us be a bit more fire conscious.  We also plan to fill the flower boxes next to the ramp.   This will not only dramatically improve the appearance of the grounds at the club but will also allow us to take a more conservative financial approach to this season. 

The upper lot has become shambles of old and rusting trailers.  At some point during the season, we’ll have a work day party begin to move and straighten some of these rusting hulks.   If you have a trailer parked in the upper lot, please take some time to put your name and phone number on the tongue of the trailer.  This will help us identify your trailer and prevent it from being scrapped or used for another purpose.

The metal shed near dock 1 is also an eye sore and ultimately needs to be removed.  We have similar storage in the unused “inboards and outboards” building.   I plan to recommend that this shed be removed from the property.  It is presently used for junk storage.  If you have something of value stored in or around the shed, please take the time to take it home or find an alternative place to store it.   Removal of this shed will free an additional 2 parking places for those on Docks 1 and 2. 

The board of directors has begun in earnest addressing the electrical needs of the club.  This year we will begin making changes to the electrical services at the docks.  This process will take a few years to complete.  This year our focus will be to improve the feeder lines to some of the docks.  Our first priority will be to address all of the electrical safety concerns with docks and water.  Then we’ll begin a process to upgrade some of the existing services.  Our goal will be to have underwater service to all the docks.  Please be patient as this is an expensive process and may take a few years to complete. 

If you have questions or concerns about anything at the sail club, please don’t hesitate to send an email or give me call. I usually have one day during the week scheduled to walk the docks looking for potential problems and keeping our club in good shape so that each of you may enjoy sailing your boat and not working on problems at the club.

Fair Winds and Following Seas!

 

Michael Mangione, Commodore

 

 

 

Commodore's Letter for June

All of us have in our veins the exact same percentage of salt in our blood that exists in the ocean, and, therefore, we have salt in our blood, in our sweat, in our tears. We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea -- whether it is to sail or to watch it -- we are going back from whence we came.

John F. Kennedy (1917 - 1963), Speech given at Newport at the dinner before the America's Cup Races, September 1962

Welcome to the summer sailing season.  While the lake level is high (1129.00) and more rains are predicted for this week, it hasn’t detracted from the popularity of the club.  I saw many faces this past weekend, some who have not been seen for over a year.  Welcome back to your sailing club. 

Last Wednesday, the southern shore anchor on dock 5 broke free.  The large hickory tree’s root system had become saturated under the high waters; it could hold no more!  Compounded with a week of unseasonably strong southern winds, the tree was pulled out by the roots.  Imagine the force.   I want to offer my thanks to those who participated in mending the broken shore cable:  Dave Vanselow, Bruce Smith, Mike Gray, Tom Jones, Bryan Carr, and my son Dominic who all worked well after dark to remove the old tree and find a suitable replacement.  The dock was pushed back into place and secured.  Unfortunately, the upright for the dock’s electrical system was ruined and will need to be replaced.  Hopefully we can restore power to the dock quickly.   On Saturday the tree was towed up the ramp and will be used for firewood.

Last Friday and Saturday, Bruce Smith, Jimmie White, Dominic Mangione, and several others, worked to create a fantastic outdoor shower enclosure.  Made from aromatic cedar fencing and melding of Ozark and Yankee engineering, we have a great outdoor shower.  It’s complete with a door, changing area, shelving, and pegs to hang clothing.  On Sunday morning there was a steady stream (pun intended) of refreshed sailors who approved of the new shower.  Great job guys! The cedar fencing will eventually continue for the length of the building.   When the weather is nice, I want to encourage everyone to use the outdoor shower as that will save the club in waste water haul off fees.

Several “early birds” were up and cleaned the club’s pavilion and club house Sunday morning.  Thank you!  These members did a great job cleaning up and leading by example.  If you have a few minute and see a trash can that is full, please take some time to empty the containers.  It really is everyone’s job. 

Ted Willis and company assembled our ice maker this weekend.  With the addition of a bit of electricity we should have a working ice machine in the coming weeks.  This is sure to be a plus at the club as the hot months of July and August are quickly approaching. 

The Spring Sailing Series finished on a very windy Sunday afternoon; the results are posted on the web. With steady southerly winds around twenty five knots and occasional white knuckle gusts into the thirties, several boats started the race.  There was some attrition primarily due to equipment failure.  Congratulations to team Dreamer who after a dismal start to the season took the lead and never looked back.  With 6 back to back wins, they clinched the title for Spring Series champs. 

Summer Sailstice is on Saturday June 21, 2008.  This fun day lets you celebrate the official start of summer by doing what we all love: sailing.  There are no rules, just get out and boat the day away!

July 5th will be our next official event at the club.  On Saturday, with a skippers meeting at noon, we’ll have the second long distance series: Arkansas Cup 2.  Remember this race is open to all participants, not just club members.  If you know of someone who would like to participate, please invite them to join us.  We’ll celebrate with a pot luck dinner afterwards.   Later, after the sun sets, we’ll enjoy the annual fireworks display at Lost Bridge.  Please use the club’s forum to register and announce what you’d like to bring for supper.

In August, we’ll revive the Dive-In movie.  Club member Mike Fagan from AV-Services has agreed to provide the sound system, projector, and screen.  We’ll set up and have a movie on the ramp.   Members can get a float and enjoy the movie while staying cool.  Be sure to bring the kids as we’ll start the movies with a kid-friendly hit!  For those who stay up late, we’ll have a moving with a sailing theme!

Many thanks for your support as commodore this year. 

 

Mike

 

Commodores' Letter for April

First, the board of directors and I would like to offer sincere thanks for those who participated in the first of three work day events at BLSC.  We accomplished a tremendous amount of work in a short time.

 

Here are some of the accomplishments completed by club members on Saturday. Several members worked on Dock 4 winches; the winches required removal from the docks and welding to insure that the cables moved freely.

 

Lots of general clean up items were accomplished including cleaning the kitchen in the pavilion, as you might imagine the refrigerator was particularly nasty and required cleaning.   The sugar shack sparkles too!

 

A new electrical supply line was run from the club house to the pavilion; this insured a more reliable power supply for the pavilion. Also an additional outlet was added to assist boaters on the ramp with additional power.

 

We had two tractors working most of the day.  They began working on some drainage problems at the switch backs and continued down to the club grounds. This insured that after the heavy spring rains we will have ameliorated some our run-off problems.

 

New mirrors were hung in the bathrooms of the club house in preparation for having the remaining fixtures installed.  Toilets should be functioning soon.

 

The start of some terracing near the top of ramp and nearest to club house got off to a great start.  Expect to see some flowers planted soon as we begin working on some landscaping issues around the club.

 

Several members worked much of the morning on dock ramp extensions.  As most of the docks are pulled in as close to shore as possible, plywood ramps were built to help members get on the docks with dry feet.  As in years past, the water may stay high for several months.  These ramps will be very useful.

           

The new waste pump was mounted on the old committee boat becoming the “sugar boat”. It will eventually be moored.

           

The retaining wall below the dry storage lot has been finished and looks great.        

 

It’s difficult to name everyone who helped on each project. Suffice it to say that you know who you are. Currently, Jimmie White is charged with the development and management of work day projects. He sends a special thank you to all that participated in this work day.

 

   

Beaver Lake Sailing Club Goes Green in 2008

 

Members should see some “green” changes at the club.  Using compact florescent bulbs is just the beginning to the club’s commitment to “go green”.   The board of directors recently approved and purchased recycle bins.  In the past we’ve only recycled aluminum.  Moving forward we’ll begin recycling glass and plastics. As we see how this process is utilized we may expand.

 

As I mentioned in my previous letter, the costs for waste haul off will be about $.20/gallon. To offset this cost, the board of directors agreed to purchase a grey water recovery system in the club house.  This system will collect, filter, and chlorinate grey water from sinks and showers.  This water will be used to flush toilets.  This new system will be installed in the next few weeks.  Investing in BLSC’s future this system costs $3,000, but the system should pay for itself in two seasons.  In addition we’ll incorporate green technology into the men’s restroom with a waterless urinal. 

 

Next weekend, April 7th and 8th are going to be busy at the club.  On Saturday morning we’ll have the “Swabmeet” a place to buy, trade, or sell your sailing or boating related items. 

 

On Saturday afternoon, we’ll have the 1st Annual Commodore’s Chili cook off.  The club will provide silverware, sample bowls, regular bowls, chili accompaniments like sour cream and cheddar cheese and beer.

 

The rules are simple.  Any one can enter; all you have to do is make your favorite chili recipe.  Make it hot, not, or in between.  Be ready to serve around 3-4 in the afternoon.  Everyone who attends will receive 5 votes; they get to choose how to spend their votes.  First and second place prizes will be awarded.

 

Sunday we’ll have the second race in the Spring Series.  Since the last race was called due to stormy weather, everyone can still get a fresh start for the season.   Let’s race!

 

One more housekeeping issue, if you celebrated the Holiday season at the club with a festive display of lights, now is the time to take them down.  The Corps of Engineer dock inspector will be by later this month and while she’s not the Grinch, she won’t approve of our lights.

 

Remember, you make BLSC a great place to be!

 

Commodore’s Letter for January

“There is nothing, absolutely nothing, half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats.” (Kenneth Graham, The Wind in the Willows)

 January 26, 2008

The conclusion of holiday season for many sailors represents another “trip around the sun”.  They pass like birthdays and anniversaries and mark the passage of time.  Although time is a constant, the older I get the more it seems to pass quickly.   Our lives are busy, double booked, with a constant barrage of to-do lists, errands, and work schedules.  These make me look forward to peaceful days spent on the lake in pursuit of relaxation and enjoyment.  As the weather begins to warm and melt the cold darkness of winter, I would like to encourage you to mark your calendar for time spent messing about in boats.

 Last week, the Beaver Lake Sailing Club board of directors met with a lengthy agenda.  As with most board meetings in any endeavor, we finished with more work than we started.  However, we managed to accomplish many items.  Some of which I am pleased to report. 

The Calendar of events has been approved and published.  I would encourage you to watch the website for changes.  Among the many events scheduled for this year, we have added some educational opportunities.  Tom Unger will be heading up the education committee for 2008.  On February 16, 2008 at 1:00 pm, Tom will present information on Digital Selective Calling and VHF radios: the latest technology improvement in boat communication. He will also be presenting a sail trim class on March 9, 2008.   Please make plans to attend this event in the new club house. 

 Dave Vanselow received an Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) as a donation from NEBCO.  It’s ready to go and will be placed in an easily accessible area of the club.  We will be holding an American Heart Association Heartsaver® AED class on March 8, 2008 from 1:00 PM until 4:00.  This certification class is geared towards teaching non-medical folks how to perform CPR and use the AED.  Class size is limited to 12 people.  So, please RSVP if you are interested.  If the class fills quickly, we will host another course in May or June.

Many members took the time to fill out the surveys before Christmas.  Many of you requested more social and education events.  On April 12, 2008, plan on attending the BLSC swap meet and 1st Annual Commodore’s Chili Cook off.  The swap meet will be much like a dock side garage sale.  The Chili Cook Off will be a chance for many club members to show off their culinary skills in competition with others.  We’ll have official judges and prizes will be awarded for the best tasting chili. 

 This week the holding tanks were installed for the club house.  As I understand, there is a little work remaining to make the final connections from the building to the tanks; it won’t be long before we have fully functional club house.   

 I would like to encourage you as members to take personal ownership of the club house: it is a wonderful gift and it’s yours to use and enjoy.  With that said, please remember if you are the last person to leave the property check to make sure the building is secure and the lights are turned off.  Also, let’s try to keep it tidy.  A set of enjoyment guidelines is being drafted, but for now, leave pets and smoking outdoors.

 At our last meeting each of the members of the board of directors was chosen to lead a committee.  They will be asking the membership for help in many different areas.  As I mentioned before, Tom Unger will be developing an education program for the club.  His membership with the Beaver Lake Sail and Power Squadron provides him with access to many different boating programs: some of which you will see in 2008. 

 Jimmie White will be serving as facilities chair person.  He will be asking for assistance to develop work day projects and identify areas where the club needs to focus resources to improve specific areas.

 Beaver Lake Sail Club’s bylaws require that we review the club rules; Gaylon Estopy will be leading that committee

 Please check the website for updates this past month.  A new and improved photo gallery is coming soon.  You will see many changes to the website over the next few weeks.

 I look forward to serving as your commodore in 2008. 

 Michael Mangione

 
Scuttlebutt October 11, 2007

The weather is finally cooling off and in a few weeks we’ll be reminiscing about all of those nice temps and balmy breezes that let us sail in comfort through September and October, but the club campfire and fall colors and autumn winds are also good reasons to come out to BLSC whenever you can.

As we recently held a board meeting in Fayetteville, a bit of an update is in order...

The clubhouse situation is looking up, with notice that the holding tanks for the septic/sanitation system are built and work should begin very soon. The HVAC compressor is installed and the electricity for that and for the new (new to us) ice maker will also soon be up and running ( thanks to Dave Midyett for finding this machine for us). Plans are to locate it under the clubhouse where ice will be made, then bagged and stored in the outside freezer for sale). Satellite TV (Direct, most likely) and WiFi will soon be installed as well. With any luck, the clubhouse will be ready for our Christmas Party.

The Christmas Party/Annual meeting. A committee consisting of Judi Walker, Myria Allen and Deborah Hartwell has been hard at work planning for this event. It will be held Saturday evening, December 8, at the BLSC clubhouse. A great catered meal with entree’

choices for everyone will be served. There will be decorations, music, door prizes, and a short annual business meeting. When you receive your invitation please RSVP along with your check, as last-minute reservations and walk-ins may not be able to be accommodated.

There are some 20 or so individual members who have not met their minimum workday requirements and who will be receiving a letter regarding that early in November. If you

have any question about this issue, please direct it to me, as this policy of requiring participation in a minimum of two workdays in 2007 we had five! or paying a facilities fee of $100. This has been well publicized throughout the year and the board stands firmly behind enforcement..

The board welcomes into the club, returning after years away in Washington, Tom and Connie Jones. Tom is one of the original members of the club. Please help me welcome them back on the active roll at BLSC. The couple sailed aboard Mike Green’s boat during the regatta recently and were treated to Seattle weather; they had a blast.

The board voted to approve a competitive bid for electric work to be done by Bert Jones Electric. This project will start immediately and install electricity to the new Dock Two. As time and money allow, additional projects will be completed to completely upgrade our electrical system and provide for future growth.

The board was pleased to approve by vote and announce that the proceeds from the NEBCO Regatta were such that BLSC was able to present a check for $4,500 to the firefighters of NEBCO. Thanks to all of our members who contributed or helped in making this event a great one, enabling us to increase the amount by $500 given to NEBCO (the previous two years the amounts were $4,000 each year).

If you ordered one of the BLSC logo polo shirts, they are in and available at the club from Vice Commodore Bryan Carr. Due to a mix-up with the supplier, only the steel-colored shirts are in the dry-mesh fabric, and the rest are in pima cotton. So, the steel shirts’ price remains at $20. However, the cotton shirts will be sold for $15 apiece. Extra shirts were ordered in three colors and in men’s and women’s sizes and styles Please pick up a couple of these good-looking shirts from Bryan.

In order to encourage more participation in our racing program, a no-pressure primer on racing starts and protocol, along with some hands-on demonstrations on the water, will be conducted Sunday, Oct. 21,at the club by the Race Committee and others about 10 a.m.. If you are interested in getting comfortable with "starts" and seeing racing tips and rules’ application in action. Please contact Bruce Smith, Jimmie White, Bryan Carr or Jay Havens or just show up. These guys are experienced racers who can help you get started racing, enjoying the thrill of sailing and your boat even more.

BLSC’s financial situation is excellent, with all bills paid. and money in the bank .thanks to

the prudent management by Treasurer Tom Unger and your board of directors.

The board encourages nominees for all positions in the officers/board election for 2008 (you’ll be receiving a ballot in early November). All regular members in good standing are eligible for nomination and we welcome anyone willing to volunteer for a spot on the board. This is a working board, with each member of it to be assigned a specific responsibility throughout his/her term. Write-in candidates are permitted on the ballot and you may submit a candidate’s name (with prior consent obtained from that individual) for the office of Commodore, Vice Commodore, Secretary, Treasurer and two at-large board positions (who each will be assigned roles dealing with facilities/grounds/dock management) to any current officer or board member. The immediate past commodore automatically serves a one-year term on the board.

Last, but importantly, you will be receiving a mailing no later than the first week of November, containing the above-referenced ballot as well an invitation to the Christmas Party, .a Member’s Waiver form that we request that you sign and return to us for our files and, for those who did not meet the minimum workdays, a $100 facilities fee statement. Please cooperate in returning all requested forms, information and payments. If your contact information is out-of-date (phone, address, e-mail, etc.) please include correct that.

On the docks or on the water, around the campfire or at the pavilion.....we look forward to seeing you at your BLSC. Fair winds.








Scuttlebuttt September 19, 2007

 

Another fantastic NEBCO Regatta is in the club’s log book, and a big thanks goes out to some members who helped make it all work: Bryan Carr….Brenda (and Megan) Taylor…Dawn Wall…Jay Havens and Lesa…Judi Walker….Steve (and Selena) Holland for the superb Low Country Boil…Jimmie and Sue White…Doon Muelbach and Jesse Johnson….and the guys from NEBCO and the fireboats.  Plus, all of you who helped secure sponsors and door prizes…..and bought merchandise.  Then, there was lots of participation in the regatta itself, with 27 boats registered…all of which helps the bottom line of our fundraising effort.  Lisa Christian ----one fine musician and outstanding entertainer ---sang her heart out for (and with) the crew, far into the night.  The new clubhouse got christened early (along with the new tables and chairs) as attendees dined comfortably, out of the rain and cold, inside.  So far, without all of the receipts in, the proceeds from the regatta look solid, and we should be able to match the last several years’ donated amounts to NEBCO.

 Dock Two is virtually completed, with the exception of the electric….and there should be some progress on that soon; it is our priority.  Then we’ll move into implementing the various other objectives in our overall, club-wide master electric plan.  A used ice machine has been purchased for the club, and should be operational in a couple of weeks, along with satellite tv to capture football games and weather.  Plus, the old sugar shack is history, with the tank pumped out and then filled with crushed limestone (as required by the state health department)….and now the huge old smoker (which Steve Holland donated to the club) rests proudly where once the ss stood (we can do without any snide comments, in that regard).  The ways has been cleared to install the septic/sanitation system and further work should begin on the installation of the holding tanks soon….followed by the finishing touches inside the clubhouse.  Perhaps you noticed that the new ac/heat pump condenser has been installed, too…………more progress.

 On a disappointing note, we had a SPARSE turnout for the Sept. 8th workday, traditionally our best attended and most labor-intensive workday of the year in preparation for the regatta.  ‘Tis a shame that so many folks chose to let so few members do most of the work in readying the club for our one and only fundraising effort.  If that sounds a bit “preachy”……you’ve got it!  The club has grown too large, with too many regular chores and maintenance issues, to continue to depend on the same handful of loyal members carrying the load for the entire membership.   Hence….the $100 facilities fee that will be charged in December for those who did not make at least two workdays this year.  There’s a sizable number in that category.  Unpaid facilities fees will be treated just as we treat unpaid dues.

 But……there’s another opportunity this Saturday to make up one of the two missed workdays.   Come on out, from 9 a.m. until the projects are completed (no later than 2 p.m.). 

We have a few projects on the docket.  Dress for the weather and the work (bring a weedeater, if you have one….chainsaw…..gloves, boots, etc.).  No lunch served.

The only other way in which to get workday credit is to tackle an approved project to do on your own and have it done by the end of October ----contact me for information and an assigned project.

There are still a handful of the new-style BLSC hats available ($12 each)…and most sizes of the Jolly Beaver retro Ts at $10 each, plus a few club burgees at $15.  For those of you who ordered the BLSC polo shirts, they are in and will be at the club Saturday for you to pick up: $20 each.  There are a few extra in various sizes and ladies/mens’ styles and colors to be offered on a first-come-first-served basis, with all actual orders from members filled first.

Remember, also, that the second race of the fall series is this Sunday, September 23…..and make sure you have set aside Saturday evening, December 8, for the annual meeting/awards ceremony and club Christmas party in the new clubhouse.  Judi Walker and Myria Allen are planning the festivities and will have more details later.

 See you at the club…..on the docks….or on the water!  Dv  P.S.  If you are interested in running for a position on the board, please let me know.  We welcome all serious nominations for the election to be held later this fall. 

 

 

 

Commodore's Corner  September 1, 2007

 

SCUTTLEBUTT from the Commodore - August/September

 Your trusty board has had several meetings since last I communicated. There is a lot of action happening past and future at BLSC.  Minutes from the last several meetings will soon be posted on the website, and most importantly, your club continues on a sound financial path: with money in the bank, all of our bills paid and a recent internal audit conducted.

 The new Dock Two is nearing completion, a bit later than all of us had hoped. There have been some setbacks dealing with the dock company, but it should be finished by Friday, August 31st.  The electric is another matter but that work will begin shortly after Labor Day. This is part of an overall project to upgrade our entire electrical system at the club.  Dock Two is our first priority. Club member Mike Green has submitted a professional, detailed analysis of our electric needs, and we are pursuing that on an incremental, project basis, correcting problems as well as enhancing the system. 

 More good news: with the repositioning of boats and the new club policy virtually every boat owner, including new members, will have a mooring of some type and the waiting list will be clear for awhile.  Remember, if you want to improve your mooring situation (dock location, upgrade, etc.) you must be on the waiting list for that, with requests honored by seniority as space becomes available.  Contact Tom Unger to do that. 

 Regarding the clubhouse, the new HVAC system should be installed by the middle of September in time for the regatta. There are new folding chairs and tables in the clubhouse we should be able to offer some indoor dining.  Finishing the clubhouse is a major priority.  As many of you know the primary holdup is securing a permit for installing the sanitation system. This must precede the finish plumbing, kitchen installation, bathrooms and showers.  Hopefully you will see some progress in that regard very soon.  We’ll get there, and we WILL hold the Christmas Party there on December 8th.

 The plans for the Sept. 15th NEBCO Regatta are finalized. You should have received a copy of the registration brochure via mail. A number of members are working hard to make it all happen successfully.  It’s going to be a downright fantastic event, with two fleets sailing for honors, a Chef Steven-prepared Low Country Boil (with Gulf shrimp personally escorted up here by Steve) the musical styling of Lisa Christian; she is coming from South Florida to perform. For the regatta winners we will have trophies, door prizes, a raffle, plus some suds, and tons of fun.  It’s up to you to make it all work ---so get some sponsors signed up and talk to folks about donating to our door prize treasure chest (new condition, value of at least $25, please) and, most importantly, register for the regatta or ticket packages THYSELF.  Remember that the “value date” for discounted prices is Sept. 8th.    Vice Commodore Bryan Carr has designed a retro Jolly Beaver souvenir tee-shirt and we will have some new BLSC logo hats and polo shirts. There will be club burgees for sale.

 Download additional registration forms on this website.  We’re hoping for 250 people at the event and to be able to clear $4000+ for NEBCO, so come early, stay late and enjoy your club.

 In preparation for the regatta please remember that the last official workday of the year is set for Saturday, Sept. 8th.  It is important that we have a big, hard-working turnout to get the club spruced up for the regatta. That means that we expect YOU to lend a hand.  Over the years we’ve depended on a handful of loyal members to do the work and make the repairs. While none of these members complain is not fair for them to continue to carry the load. There is simply too much to do as the club grows larger. This year, of course, we are requiring members to participate in two of the three official workdays or be subject to a $100 facilities fee at the end of the year.  I urge you to get your workday credits in just for the good of the club we all enjoy so much.  Please bring hand tools,  power tools, garden rakes arbor saws, chainsaws. Weed-eaters, a shovel,  pick, gloves and cleaning supplies. Remember to  for the weather and work, there are lots of weeds, rocks and insects, so come prepared.

The club will provide lunch and plenty of bottled water.

Five new individuals/families have been approved for membership in the club:  Mike and Mary Gray, Lost Bridge Village, Ericson 25; Mike and Martha Kaufman, Springdale, C&C Wave 26; Christy and Larry Wagner, Cassville/Overland Park, KS; ; Farris and Tina Merritt,  Hunter 26.5; and  Debra Litle (former member, rejoining club).  Please welcome them aboard and help them out as a crew of members did in rigging and launching a new member’s boat last Saturday. There are also several other couples taking a close look at the club and considering joining soon; they comment in visiting on the facilities we have for boats and the clubhouse, Everyone is most impressed by the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

 A couple of housekeeping notes.  The pavilion and club grounds is an ongoing problem and without each doing his or her part it will not be solved.  Please keep the kitchen clean, including the grills and do not leave perishable foods in the fridge.  Please let us know when essential supplies are low. Pick up and recycle your aluminum cans. Line the trash cans and fasten lids securely Turn out the lights, lock the doors, and secure the gate upon leaving.

 Please control your dogs and keep them off the picnic tables and either on a leash or on your boat.  Please remember that we have a family oriented club, with a diverse membership all drawn together by a love of boats and sailing.  Please respect the rights and property of others, as well as all club rules which are posted on the pavilion bulletin board.  In order for us to have the most up-to-date contact information we would ask that you let Mike Mangione know your current mailing address, phone numbers and e-mail address.

A reminder, to sign up at the pavilion if you want to use the club trailer/ramp Please limit to a two week maximum on the ram.  Also remember it is important to courtesy call any members on the list ahead of you.  Lately, the ramp has been very busy.

 Finally…..some  important dates*:  Sept. 1 – Arkansas Cup #3                                                         

Sept. 3 – Rambo Regatta

                                                            Sept. 8 – Workday (starts 9 a.m.) Also deadline for

                                                            Submitting your regatta registration at a discount.

                                                            Sept. 9 – Fall Series #1

                                                            Sept. 15 – NEBCO Regatta

                                                            Sept. 22 – Makeup workday opportunity-contact the

                                                            Commodore for specific assignments.  No lunch.

                                                             December 8 – Annual Meeting and Christmas Party

·          For further info, check out the website or contact Bryan Carr or Jimmie White.

 As always your board thanks you for your support of the club, and we look forward to seeing you on the water, at the dock, or around the campfire. 

And welcome your input and suggestions.  Fair winds!