200112

Commodore

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

I hope everyone enjoyed the Holiday Party December 9th. It was a great success from the feedback I have heard. Thanks to all of you that worked on the preparation that made it a success and the cleanup after. As each of you get ready for the madness of the crowds and all of the gatherings that we will have over the next few weeks, thanks for coming!

Happy Holidays to everyone!

I will be appointing a Nominating Committee to recommend Officers for the next year. The elections will be held at the April Meeting. The committee will be recommending the people that will be leading the club over the next year. I know that out of the 66 member boats we have now, that we have a great of deal of leadership and experience to continue Columbia River Catalina’s success.

The Portland Boat Show is January 5-13, 2002 and we will have a booth again this year. Check out Bill Simon’s article on the Boat Show and see how you can help. It should be a good show, Sailboats of Oregon will have at least three Catalina's in their booth.

Holiday Cheer and Camaraderie

By Dale Mack

December 9.  This was Laura and my first trip to the Rose City Yacht Club.  Located off Marine Drive, the clubhouse actually floats on the water.  During a break in the rain, we enjoyed the view of the boats in the marina.  The water was like glass, and the holiday lights set against the black of night, made for a very peaceful scene topped off by the crispness of the night air.

Inside the RCYC clubhouse, CRACA volunteers had done a great job pulling everything together.  From the decked tree to the decorated tables, there was much to help put you in the holiday mood.  Special thanks goes to those who organized, set up, and eventually cleaned up.  Their efforts produced a very enjoyable night out for many couples.

Everyone who attended dropped off a food bank donation, and deposited their white elephant gift on the head table.  The potluck dinner started off with CRACA provided beverages, and membership provided appetizers.  By 5:30 pm the main dishes were put out.

There were lots to eat and drink, thanks to the generosity of those attending.  All Catalina potlucks are becoming famous for the variety of their offerings and the holiday party added to that reputation.  From meats and cheeses, and home cooking favorites to dishes from around the world, there was a little something for everyone.

As dessert was served from a selection of delicious pies, we all settled down for the evening's finale, the white elephant gift exchange.  Centered around nautical themed gifts, we all turned our chairs to the head table as numbers were read aloud and as participants either opened a new gift or choose to steal a previously opened gift.

Many gifts were incredibly useful, others were whimsical, and still others are candidates for future white elephant gift exchanges.   Whether or not you took home anything useful, the fun was in watching the exchanges as folks stole gifts, or tired to sell the merits of why their gift should be stolen.

Laura and I want to thank everyone for a wonderful night out.

CRACA Helps the Oregon Food Bank

By Dave Thomas, C30, Sunchaser

Thanks to all who contributed to the Oregon Food Bank at our Holiday Party. We collected 87 pounds which were warmly accepted by the Food Bank staff. They are experiencing a heavy draw on their resources this year, so every donation helps.

Thanks again, Dave & Julie Thomas

Secretary/Treasurer

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO ALL OF YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anyone receiving IACA renewals for the “Mainsheet” magazine should check with me since all subscriptions are now ordered through CRACA unless you are a member of a One Design group.

Our membership list has grown to 66 member boats. Please welcome the latest members to our group.

Douglas Foster and Diane Burns of Portland, OR

• Quiet Storm, C30, 1988, Portland Yacht Club

Tom Grant and Kathy Fieldstad of Lake Oswego, OR

• C36, 1993, Hayden Bay – D16

Steve Shanklin and Sherry Robinson of Beaverton, OR

• Velveteen Rabbit, C36, 1998, Rose City Yacht Club

David and Chris Sinner of Beaverton, OR

• Seaflower, C30, 1995, Tomahawk Island

Jim Turner and Rhonda Caldwell of Vancouver, WA

• Fat Cat, C30, 1996, Steamboat Landing C15

Be sure and notify me of any changes in your roster listing. We try to email changes monthly.

Thanks much for helping to keep the listing up-to-date.

Portland Boat Show

By Dale Mack

January 5-13.  CRACA will once again have a booth at the Portland Boat Show in 2002.  The purpose of the booth is to attractive Catalina owners and prospective Catalina owners into joining the Columbia River All Catalina Association. To that end, the booth will be outfitted with membership brochures, the association's scrapbook, posters of events, and manned full-time during the show.

This is your chance to help out and receive free admission to the show. Please help!!! Call or email Bill Simon 503-246-1877 / wfsimon@earthlink.net and volunteer. If you have already committed to a time slot, feel free to sign up again.

Seattle Boat Shows

By Pam Evans, C320, Dream Catcher

January 19-20.  "Come one - come all" . . . We're very happy to report that Amtrak has gotten so-o-o-o busy that they're encouraging the public to buy more boats.  How are they doing this you may ask???  By offering a special round trip, Portland to Seattle fare.  The only catch is the tickets must be purchased on the Internet.  Simply go to www.amtrak.com and get your reservations now!!!

Why take Amtrak to Seattle in January? Because that's where the annual Seattle Boat Show, and Lake Union Boats Afloat Show will be held January 11-20.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel, which is in downtown Seattle at 1113 6th Avenue, (206-464-1980), has a room rate during those dates of $99 plus tax with a 21 day advance purchase. The Marriott courtyard at 925 Westlake Ave, North (206-213-0100) is $89 per night (no view) and $99 per night (with view).

The Marriott Residence Inn is $99 per night (no view) and $119 per night (with view), and is located at 800 Fairview Avenue, North (206-624-6000). The price includes a breakfast buffet. We stayed there last year for the boat show and really enjoyed it because we were directly across the street from the "in the water" part of the boat show -- nice view and we could walk back for a snack or nap whenever we felt like it.  The Residence Inn has an indoor pool and spa as well. And don't forget to ask for AARP rates if you are a member! And, if making reservations over the net, you need you be sure and go through the "$39 Winter Specials Come Out and Play" promo screen. Otherwise, you'll see a higher rate when you try to make your reservations. When we had the one bedroom last year, it included a mini-kitchen with range top, fridge and microwave (they even had complimentary popcorn in the room for nuking)--a nice room--with the bedroom separate from the living room and kitchen. And the free breakfast in the lobby every morning included cereal, pastries, juice, coffee, fruit, eggs, and make-yourself-waffles. As Tom Peterson says "Free Is a VERY Good Price."

As to restaurants -- Seattle is filled with them, everything from The Metropolitan downtown, to McRory's near the location of the old Kingdome, to Hiram's up by the Ballard Locks. Of course, that doesn't even take the seafood restaurants into account. There is a great seafood place right there overlooking the boats across from the Marriott Courtyard called Chandler's. My personal favorite is The Met but probably too spendy for us right after the holidays. We think McRory's has the best clamchowder and prime rib ever! And the fact they have a HUGE selection of scotch doesn't hurt their reputation in my eyes. As for Hooter's at Chandler's Cove (site of the Boats Afloat Show), I think you'd need to discuss that one with Don--not me--but we stopped in there for a drink last year and it was so loud we couldn't hear each other speak, plus service was lousy so we got up and walked out. We went back over to the Chandler's and had a great time. Cucina-Cucina is also across the street from the hotel as well as Daniel's which is a spendy steakhouse. These are just ideas to toss around.

Pacific Sail Expo

By Glenn Johnson, SeaQuel

April 17-21.  We are trying to put together a trip to the Pacific Sail Expo, April 17-21, 2002. You may want to buy some of those big ticket items before this summer. Great seminars and many good ideas to gain even if you don’t buy a thing.

The idea is to take Amtrak down in the afternoon, arrive in the morning, stay overnight and return the following night. That would give us two days to visit the Sail Expo and other things you might like to do. Train round trip is about $296 per couple plus hotel, meals, tickets, etc. The Commodore and Secretary/Treasurer are going to go on the 19th in the afternoon and return on the 21st.

Please contact Glenn Johnson at 503.289.1436 to discuss and express your interest. You need to get your reservations in early.

January's General Meeting

By Michael Lewis, Commodore

January 23.  The next meeting will be on Wednesday, January 23, 2002 with an educational speaker.

We will have survived the Portland and Seattle Boat Show.

Several excellent speakers have been identified and we expect to have one of them confirmed shortly.

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Cruising

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Thanksgiving Cruise to River Place Marina

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

November 24-25.  OK, so it might not have been the biggest turn out for CRACA, but who's counting. It was fun. Attendees included the Jaeckel's, s/v "Mistress II", the Evan's s/v "Dream Catcher", the Simon's (land arrivals) and the Meyer's, s/v "Shekinah".

Once again, the weather cooperated with some automatic boat washing for us, the bridges opened as desired and Jerry Olsen, harbormaster at River Place Marina was as accommodating as ever. The primary activities were individual - Xmas tree Lighting, Xmas shopping, etc. Some good ol' Southern hospitality was enjoyed on s/v "Dream Catcher" Saturday evening.

Holiday weekends may not be the best time to schedule CRACA cruises but River Place Marina should be on everyone's list as a great "non-sailing" get-away with their boat. The comfort and convenience of a city center location for variety and things to do is hard to beat.

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Local Sailing Associations

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• SailPDX (hosted by Oregon Corinthian Sailing Association, OCSA)
• Small Yacht Sailing Club of Oregon (SYSCO)
• Oregon Women’s Sailing Association (OWSA)
• Portland Yacht Club (PYC)
• Rose City Yacht Club (RCYC)

The Columbia River All Catalina Association newsletter is published online once a month. Articles are the opinions of the authors and don’t necessarily represent the consensus of the Association.

200111

Commodore

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

The 2001 Rendezvous is over, 2002 Rendezvous is in the planning stages, the Christmas Ships are going to be starting soon, the Boat Shows are on the way. There will be several good cruises and activities over the winter. We need to have lots of volunteers to come up with some ideas, participate and give all of us the benefit of your experience. I will be appointing the Nominating Committee for the new officers that will be taking office in May. Although that may seem a long way off, it is time to think about your contribution to the success of the Columbia River All Catalina Association.

It is time to check your boats over and winterize in your own peculiar way; the fuel system, the engine the water tanks, the waste tanks, and think out your emergency plan when the big wind, bitter cold and other natural disasters hit. We had a good discussion at the last meeting. And don’t forget your dock lines.

But I for one, am planning the cruises for next year and even the year after that, have you got all of your Cruise Books out, your Charts out and your Dreams. Remember, however, “Cruisers don’t have plans, just intentions.” Now you have put up with one more quote from me:

An inspiration to do it now - before a cruise ship is your only option...

" What if the spell of a place falls upon a youthful heart, and the bright horizon calls?

Many a thing will keep till the world's work is done, and youth is only a memory.

When the old enchanter came to my door, laden with dreams, I reached out with both hands.

For I know that he would not be lured with the gold that I might offer later, when age had come upon me."

Viking's Wake, Richard J. MacCullaugh

Columbia River All Catalina Association's Favorite Companies

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

The 2002 Rendezvous was a great success this year but I wanted to put a special “Sailor’s Thank You” in for the companies that supported us. They helped make the biggest event of our organization even more successful. I want to again call upon everyone to give special consideration to those companies that gave us consideration and support. I always look first to these companies for my boating needs!

• Blue Water Sailing
• Boater’s World
• BoatsU.S.
• Boeshield
• Captain’s Nautical Supply
• Columbia Crossings
• Columbia Marine Exchange
• Cook Engine Company
• DIY Magazine
• Doubletree Hotel-Col River/JB
• Emerald Island Studio
• England Marine Supply
• Flitz, Inc.
• Furuno, Inc
• Good Old Boat
• Hartse Marine
• Hayden Island Canvas
• Inflatable Boat Center
• Island Girl
• Keys Digital
• Murphy's Law
• North Sails
• Port of Astoria
• Port Supply
• Raymarine
• Rocky Pointe Marina
• Ronstan, Inc.
• Safeco, Inc.
• Safeway Stores
• SailboatOwners.com
• Sailboats of Oregon
• Sailnet.Com
• Schooner Creek Boat Works
• The Sailing Company
• West Marine
• Yandina

Christmas Ship Parade

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

The Christmas Ship Parade started 45 years ago with one lone sailboat from Portland Yacht Club. Bows of green with some ribbon were tied along the rails and it paraded on the rivers. The next year the parade started to grow. Today, the Christmas Ship Fleet averages about 55 to 60 boats between the Columbia and Willamette River fleets. Things have changed from the first lone ship.

The displays are now brightly lit and can be seen from bank to bank on each river. Each boat owner designs and builds their lighted Christmas display and pays their operating costs which includes fuel. Some of the displays have been passed down when the Skipper and family retire so the tradition continues. Even though not all boats make it out every night of the two weeks the ships parade on the rivers of Portland, most do.

Below is the schedule for a night on the river and beautiful lights. The previous schedule was in error.

As we get closer to the weather situation for the night, we can go to St. Helens on Saturday, Coon Island on Sunday or Hadley’s Landing on Sunday for the night. If you are interested let’s talk about it at the Holiday Party and get a fleet or group together to have some fun.

Cruise Date Saturday, Dec. 15th

• Assembly Time 5:00PM
• Assembly Area St. Helens City Docks
• Destination St. Helens Area, and Columbia City Area
• Arrival Time 5:15P (approx)

Cruise Date Sunday, Dec. 16th

• Assembly Time 4:00PM
• Assembly Area Coon Island [Viewing by boat only]
• Destination Multnomah Channel to Willamette River.Both fleets together tonight.
• Arrival Time 5:00PM Scappoose

Secretary/Treasurer

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

The minutes of the October 24th meeting have been emailed to members.

Our newest members are Werner and Renate Bittner with a new C28 moored at RCYC.

We now have 62 member boats. A reminder that dues for new members joining after October 31st are prorated at $15 per boat. Catalina’s “Mainsheet” publication is available by subscription at $2.50 per issue and is published quarterly {November, February, May and August}.

Contact me with any membership, “Mainsheet” subscription, or burgee order questions.

Kathleen Lewis, Secretary/Treasurer (503-981-7467)

Pacific Sail Expo

By Glenn Johnson

April 17-21.  We are trying to put together a trip to the Pacific Sail Expo, April 17-21, 2002. Got to buy some of those big ticket items before you take off cruising.

The idea is to take Amtrak down in the afternoon, arrive in the morning, stay overnight and return the following night. That would give us two days to visit the Sail Expo and other things you might like to do. Train round trip is about $296 per couple plus hotel, meals, tickets, etc. The trip could be mid-week or the weekend. We would go as a group so democracy wins but the weekend is a weekend.

Please contact Glenn Johnson at 503.289.1436 to discuss and express your interest. We need to get our reservations in early.

Holiday Party Time

By Michael Lewis, Commodore

December 9.  The Columbia River All Catalina Association will hold its annual Holiday Party with a White Elephant Gift Exchange on December 9, 2001 at the Rose City Yacht Club. For those of you that haven’t been there before the address is 3737 NE Marine Drive. Right before Salty’s as you are heading east on Marine Drive. Social hour will start at 4 PM, with dinner around 5 PM.

As a part of our Holiday Party we are having an Oregon Food Bank Collection. At the door, as the price of admission, we are collecting non-perishable items for the Oregon Food Bank. As most of you know local charitable organizations are struggling for lack of donations. In this way we can help.

This is one opportunity for CRACA to be of service to our local community. This is one opportunity for CRACA to be of service to our local community. Oregon Food Bank welcomes any non-perishable item. Since they most often serve the elderly and very young these are items of particular need:

• Canned tuna
• Peanut butter in plastic containers
• Ensure/ Boost or any high protein foods
• Baby formula
• Diapers

We are also going to have a gift exchange {See Rules Below—Limit is $10-$15—Theme is Nautical or even hand-crafted items}. We had a great time with this last year.

For the feast we need to you check your last name and do the following:

• A – M will bring appetizer / salads
• N – Z Bring a main course item
• Dessert - Deane Johnson has agreed to bring the dessert. To those of you who might have missed her pies at the rendezvous, you are in for a treat. The Commodore and Glenn Johnson get first pieces. House Rule!
• Beverages-Soft Drinks Provided (BYOB)

There is a CD player in the clubhouse and you are welcome to bring your favorite holiday tunes.

This event has a limit to the number of people we can accommodate in the Clubhouse. We have set a limit -- 80.

You must RSVP to Jim & Marlene Himes at 503.240.1921 or email rtime3@home.com as soon as possible.

White Elephant Gift Exchange

These rules are not hard and fast.  Change them as you wish, but set the rules before starting.  Agree before hand if there is a spending limit and/or a theme.

Everyone brings a wrapped gift. It should be an item that someone would actually want or use. New or in good condition, it could be anything. A game, a music CD, a figurine from Aunty Em, but something that would appeal to multiple people. Some items fought over (see rules below) in the past included campy jewelry, nice jewelry, books, toys, and most famously, pink flamingo bedroom slippers. It is unnecessary (and sometimes important) that the original owner does not identify herself.  Prepare slips of paper with numbers and have everyone draw one.

On the first turn, person #1 chooses a gift, opens it, and all admires it. On the second turn, person #2 gets the choice of "stealing" any unwrapped gift (#1's) or choosing a wrapped one. On the third turn, person #3 gets the choice of "stealing" any unwrapped gift (#1's or #2's) or choosing a wrapped one. Game continues based on the following:

• If a gift is stolen from you, you can steal a gift (see #3 and #4 below), or open a new one.
• Turns proceed until everyone has a gift. A turn is ended when a gift is opened and (hopefully) admired by everyone.
• A gift cannot be stolen more than once in a turn.
• The third "owner" of a gift gets to keep it - it is unavailable to be stolen again.

At the end of the last turn, the first person (who had no choice at the beginning) can choose to put back his or her gift and steal any gift that is still available - see #4 above. Then the gift "exchange" is started again (see #3 and #4 above) and ended when someone either chooses or is forced to take the gift given up by person #1.

January's General Meeting

By Michael Lewis, Commodore

January 23. The next meeting will by January 23, 2002 with an educational speaker at a location to be determined.

We will have survived the Portland and Seattle Boat Show.

Stay tuned!

Everyone enjoyed the last meeting even if it was South.

Seems that many people don’t get to live on the river.

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Cruising

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Halloween Cruise to Sand Island or Coon Island?

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

October 20-21.  Well, another phenomenal, news worthy week-end cruise. We met at Coon Island as an alternative to the Sand Island Halloween Bash. We had everything we wanted - plenty of dock space, Saturday afternoon dry weather for a little social hour, rain on Sunday to help us all keep our boats clean, a solar outhouse in the middle of the island to amaze those techno geeks, and Bill and Marla Simon passing out Halloween cookies.

Overall, it was a low keyed, relaxing week-end. For social activity, we toyed with a Whale watching excursion, but settled for watching a few of our members display their athletic abilities kayaking. We also did some boat touring. We were graciously invited on to Jim & Libby Nieland's "Star Rover" from St. Helens. Their boat, a 39 foot somethingorother, had done much serious blue water sailing and now was getting a beautiful make over. Then we toured Gib Colistro's Grand Banks that had also gone through some tasteful restorations. Boy, there sure were a lot of sailors pretty interested in the Grand Banks. Those who joined us included Bob & LaRainne Robeson, "Emerald Odysea", Walt & Marilyn Wittke, "Misstres", Don & Pam Evans, "Dream Catcher", Bill & Marla Simon, "Windswept", Dave & Julie Thomas, "Sunchaser", Jerry Sampson, "Sydera",Phyllis Carello and Ron Barbora.

Plans for the Thanksgiving Cruise

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

November 24-25.  Somewhat a change in plans. We thought of heading to the Government Island docks and maybe having a swimming party over the Thanksgiving Cruise weekend. BUT, I checked NOAA’s long-range weather forecast and the weather looks like it might not be optimal for swimming. So, thanks to a great idea from Gary Jaeckel, we’re now thinking of going back downtown to River Place Marina. If any of you would still prefer to go to Government Island and enjoy the rugged but brutal outdoors, let us know and we’ll help to coordinate. However, if others want to join us down at River Place, here’s the scoop. To paraphrase the Jaeckel’s correspondence to me, the weekend after Thanksgiving downtown can be lots of fun.

For those who can arrive early, there’s the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Regardless of when you arrive, downtown is a free “MAX” area for transportation plus the new trolley system is running so you can get all your Christmas shopping done plus enjoy a week end on the boat. I’ll still bring along some turkey for anyone who wants some, plus I’ll bring maps for those who want to run off to Captain’s Nautical Supply new location. As to docking, there’s the long transient dock which should be quite empty this time of year, or you can contact Jerry Olsen, Harbor Master, 503-241-8283 and reserve a slip with power, hot showers, etc. for $25.00. There might end up being some going Friday and some going Saturday.

Call us the week before and we’ll see if it’s possible to go in a couple of groups the three miles up river to make bridge opening easier. Pending on your stick, there’s either two or three bridges that need to be opened – Friday they have certain restrictions due to traffic but Saturday should be a breeze. Check out Walt Wittke’s cruise in the June Newsletter and you’ll get all the information you need. Hope to see you there. John and Annie Meyer, c/v Shekinah, 503-693-9233.

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Local Sailing Associations

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• SailPDX (hosted by Oregon Corinthian Sailing Association, OCSA)
• Small Yacht Sailing Club of Oregon (SYSCO)
• Oregon Women’s Sailing Association (OWSA)
• Portland Yacht Club (PYC)
• Rose City Yacht Club (RCYC)

The Columbia River All Catalina Association newsletter is published online once a month. Articles are the opinions of the authors and don’t necessarily represent the consensus of the Association.

200110

Commodore

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

Kudos to all who helped to make the 2001 Rendezvous a success!!

First! To the Catalina Owners who registered, came and participated. Without each of you it couldn’t happen. There were 41 registered and 21 boats joined the rafting lineup. See the great pictures.

Frank Butler, owner of Catalina Yachts, and Sharon Day
Sales Manager for Catalina Yachts

Frank Butler, owner of Catalina Yachts, and Sharon Day Sales Manager for Catalina Yachts

To Catalina Yachts who built our boats without them we wouldn’t be the group we are. Thanks to Frank Butler & Sharon Day who joined us on Saturday and shared information about their company. Their donations to our group were very generous.

To Glenn and Deane Johnson who are Sailboats of Oregon. They and the Riverhouse condominiums Association let us gather and raft in the west end of Hayden Bay.

To Glenn, Deane and family who worked so hard preparing the food for the Saturday dinner and Sunday Brunch. Ribs and Chicken, Salads, Home Made Pie and Cakes. All was delicious and I don’t think anyone went hungry.

To the over 40 vendors who generously donated multitudes of items which were given to attendees and made it possible for each registrant to receive a door prize, too.

To Murphy’s Law for their renditions of Irish Sea Shanties and Songs – Sounded really good.

To Bill and Marla Simon, Windswept, who handled registration & ticket sales.

To Diane and Doug Ohlson, D.L. Always, for doing coffee and donuts Saturday AM and keeping Kathy company at the Registration Table.

To Brian and Kathy Lawrence, Katrinka, for organizing the cleanup activities and for everyone who assisted.

To Marlene and Jim Himes, R-Time3, and all of the others for the decorating and set-up at the Recreation Room.

To Craig and Julie Beck, Beck-N-Me, for the rafting support.

To Julie Beck, Beck-N-Me, and Lorraine Pickett, Nepenthe, for the Award Ceremony.

The Commodore was awarded a whip. I don’t get it?

To Marlene and Jim Himes, R-Time3, for seeing that we all had the 2001 Rendezvous Shirts. They were great. Still a few left if you want one or more.

To Eugene Wilkinson, What, Me Worry?, for providing construction materials and overseeing the boat designers and builders. Winners received DIY Marine Maintenance magazine subscriptions. Four awards: Most Original, Most Like a Catalina, Best Sailing Vessel, and Most Unique.

To Marilyn and Walt Wittke, Miss Tres II, for assisting with Friday Night Appetizers.

To La Donna Bubak, Salacia, for all of the vendor contacts, storage of items and assistance with the stuffing of the bags and bags of goodies.

To all of you that helped make the Sunday Morning Brunch a success.

To all of you for your support in the last minute raffle, organized by La Donna Bubak, Salacia, and Kathleen Lewis, Wind Raven. The proceeds of the raffle will be donated to the American Red Cross—Disaster Relief Fund to assist. We dedicated the best prizes from West Marine (LifeSling), England’s Marine Supply (Folding Picnic Table) and Catalina Yachts (Lots of Catalina Attire). The results of the Raffle Ticket Sales resulted in a donation to the American Red Cross—Disaster Relief Fund of $585. But wait, Sharon Day of Catalina Yachts matched our donation for a total of $1170. A very big “warm fuzzy” for all of us to be able to help.

The biggest surprise was a gift from Frank Butler and Sharon Day of Catalina Yachts for a week at a house in Puerto Vallarta. We held a drawing with all registrants entered into the drawing. The lucky winner was Noel and Ashley Des Marteau, Spice of Life.

Thanks Everyone!

Special … Special …

2002 Columbia River Catalina Rendezvous Location Announced!

By Michael Lewis

Carole and Berkley Smith, Pzazz, and Brian and Kathy Lawrence, Katrinka, are organizing the 2002 Rendezvous to be held in September, 2002 in St. Helens on Sand Island. Mark your calendars! It will be bigger and better than this year. Maybe we can even rename the island, Catalina Island, for the weekend. Sounds so much better than Sand.

Secretary/Treasurer

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

We have reached 60 members now with the latest additions. It was great to see so many of the new members at the Rendezvous and match faces, names and boats. Hope to see more of you soon.

Welcome and Ahoy:

Nick and Gail Wigen

• Ursa Minor – C42

Richard and Jenny Freeman

• Raven’s Dream – C36

Safety Focal

By Michael Lewis

We Need You! In the wake of the recent attacks on the United States, the Coast Guard Auxiliary will be called upon to provide essential services to the Coast Guard as they focus more heavily on their military missions. We will need all the help we can get. You needn't own a boat or even be an experienced boater, since our missions are wide-ranging. For information about existing Auxiliary missions and the Auxiliary in general, go to our Join the Auxiliary web page. You will find there a form through which you can ask that a local Auxiliarist make contact with you to explore the ways in which you can assist Team Coast Guard and, in the process, do something for our country in its hour of need.

America's Boating Course (ABC) The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the U.S. Power Squadron is pleased to announce the availability of ABC. ABC provides a modern, robust basic boating course, which will be taught in classrooms, sold directly to students for home study and delivered on the Internet. The course is contained in a full color textbook and an interactive CD. More information at www.AmericasBoatingCourse.com.

October General Meeting Notice

By Michael Lewis, Commodore

October 24.  The next meeting for the Columbia River All Catalina Association will be held on October 24th at Damon’s – A Dining Event, 15230 SW Sequoia Parkway in Tigard, Oregon (see map). We reserved the Banquet Room from 6 PM to 9 PM. Come have ½ price appetizers until 7 PM or eat dinner.

• Come prepared to share some cruising stories
• Bring your photographs and stories from the Rendezvous to share
• BurgeeWear, RendezvousWear, Burgees will be for sale, too

CRACA Holiday Party Announcement

By Michael Lewis, Commodore

Holiday Party to held Sunday, December 9th at the Rose City Yacht Club.

Mark your calendars now!

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Cruising

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Halloween Cruise to Sand Island or Coon Island?

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

October 20-21.  Here’s the deal. I don’t know if it’s that we partied too hard at the Rendezvous, or if we’re not into trick or treating w/ goblins all over our boats or if we feel out numbered by the power boats at the annual event on Sand Island, or what, but, I’ve been picking up a number of hesitations regarding that cruise. As I mentioned in the last newsletter, we’ve lost our cruise director for the cruise and I suggested we go directorless as the whole weekend party on Sand Island is sort of a traditional event and needs little organization. I still want to encourage anyone planning on doing that cruise to follow through - have a great time (which I understand is an understatement) and represent The CRACA well. Let us know how it goes. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a quieter weekend ( or can’t find a tie up at Sand), how about meeting at Coon Island. We’ll be there as the “non-cruise directors”. There’ll be no planned activities but I’m sure we’ll all end up getting together Saturday afternoon to share our favorite Boat Beverages and snacks. I hate to create a division in the plans but it seems to be happening anyway. Call us (503-693-9233) if you plan on either cruise and we’ll fill you in on the latest info. Remember, after this cruise, it’s only a couple of more months before the weather starts to diminish!

Plans for the Thanksgiving Cruise

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

November 24-25.  This is the cruise for those who’s family are far away, or for those who’s family’s too close. The big holiday pig out is over - idiots are out fighting crowds shopping, other’s are hung up in front of the boob tube - a real chance to get away. We’ll bring along some turkey for anyone who wants some - turkey truffles, wild turkey, turkey pudding, you name it.. Location is still floating. Let’s plan on Government Island for now. Guaranteed, the location will be somewhere in the PDX area. Regardless, plan on making it for that weekend following Thanksgiving. . Like always, when the Meyer’s are the Cruise Directors, you’re not going to get planned activities like turkey shoots, turkey trots or what ever, maybe just some card games in the evening. Hope you’ll leave your plans open.

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Local Sailing Associations

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• SailPDX (hosted by Oregon Corinthian Sailing Association, OCSA)
• Small Yacht Sailing Club of Oregon (SYSCO)
• Oregon Women’s Sailing Association (OWSA)
• Portland Yacht Club (PYC)
• Rose City Yacht Club (RCYC)

The Columbia River All Catalina Association newsletter is published online once a month. Articles are the opinions of the authors and don’t necessarily represent the consensus of the Association.

200109

Commodore

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

The 2nd Annual Columbia River Catalina Rendezvous is just a few tacks and jibes away. Over 35 boats are registered and more coming in each day.

You will be “sorely missed” and “sore that you missed it.” We need your help to complete the logistics of food, t-shirts and the myriad of other things that will make this the most successful Rendezvous yet and make everyone smile.

All of you that have registered will receive an information packet explaining the Rendezvous Program including a map, directions by land and by river, water depths, schedule, rafting instructions and the Rendezvous VHF hailing channel.

Beyond my efforts for the Rendezvous, I have been busy trying to get our new boat outfitted. Lots of “cruising toys” going on board eventually and it seems that the choices are many. Oh well! Income taxes are a good problem to have, when you consider the alternative of no income.

Ps - There is a life after the Rendezvous, keep in mind that we have the following events upcoming:

• October 20-21, Halloween cruise to Sand Island
• October 24, Meeting
• November 24-25, Thanksgiving Cruise
• December 8, Holiday Party
• December 15-16, Christmas Ships at Hadley’s Landing
• January 5-13, Portland Boat Show including Booth
• January 12-20, Seattle Boat Show Trip

See you at the Rendezvous!

Beer Can Races 

By Dale Mack

August 31st concluded the 2001 season's of Friday Night Beer Can Races.  The races, which began on June 15th, proved very popular with racers and non-racers alike.

Designed to be just-for-fun, the races were more about getting out on the water on Friday evenings with friends and family, than they were about racing.  The race committee would drop a couple of race markers, post the course on the committee boat, and then send everyone on their way by 6:30 pm.

Dennis & Sandy Thomas, Nate & Margaret Hansen, and Terry & Kathie Annis
prepare to go out and enjoy a leisurely evening sail in the August 31st Beer Can Race

Each Friday had a different theme, where participants were encouraged to dress up.  Themes ranged from sports night, hat night, western night, flag night, toga night, tropical night, formal night, pajama night, reggae night, pirate night, to fiesta night.  There was a social held after each race at Kenton Station, where various crews were recognized for the creativity of their entry.

Secretary/Treasurer

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

We welcome our newest members:

David and Sylvia Keller of Lake Oswego, OR

• Their 1983 – C27 – River Rose is at Hayden Bay – K1

Jeff and Jeanette Napier of Brush Prairie, WA

• Their 1985 – C30 is at McCuddy’s on Marine Drive – D30

Our member list is now at 58 boats with others expressing an interest in joining. At this time last year we had approximately 30 member boats.

Please contact me for membership information, burgee or “Mainsheet” orders or questions.

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Cruising

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Plans for the Halloween Cruise to Sand Island

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

October 20-21.  Bad news, we’ve lost our Cruise Director for this one. Good news – we’ll have a cruise anyway! This is an annual event that probably many of you have gone to. I understand it is one of the biggest boating events on the Columbia River. Annie and I will act as a clearinghouse for information but we’ve decided a formal CD is not going to be needed since the Columbia River Yachting Association has designated one host club to coordinate for all clubs or boats attending. Hopefully there will be an article in the Fresh Water News shortly that will fill us in on any details. I’ll also do a little noising around to see what I can find out.

Please note, if you’d like an easy volunteer job, we could still have a Cruise Director for this weekend and with that honor you’ll get a really expensive, custom designed T-Shirt. Call us if you’re interested. Overall, there’s no way we would want to plan a CRACA activity on the docks when there are so many other, great people to visit with etc.

Costumes are permitted and encouraged. Kids particularly have a good time on this journey. I’ll bet there’ll even be a contest for the best (and worst) costumes. You know, last year at my work, I put a fork in my pocket and when people asked what my costume was, I pulled out the fork and told them I was Poseidon, sea god. I thought for sure with that one that I’d get the worst costume award, but not to be. Anyhow, that’s another story. If you can show up, even if you don’t wear a costume, have some goodies on board in case a creature comes along and rocks your boat. Docking will strictly be first come first serve so it wouldn’t hurt to get there early. It’ll be crowded but everyone helps everyone get in and out. It’ll be fun.

Plans for the Thanksgiving Cruise

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

November 24-25.  Don’t worry; this one isn’t on Thanksgiving (but I will bring some turkey meat if you really want). Anyhow, it’s on Nov. 24- 25, the weekend after Thanksgiving. What a great time to get in the boat and go hide somewhere from all of the Christmas shoppers.

This will be sort of a floating location (get the pun?). It doesn’t look like it will be at Canoe Bay so we’re open to an alternate site. For now we’ll plan on the Govt. Docks, east side. If you’d like to come and you have another idea of where to go, let Annie or I know and we’ll talk it over. (no commodore, we’re not going to anchor and raft off of nude beach!). Seriously, after the holiday, this might be a really nice time to get away and have some quiet time. Put it on your calendar and keep it open.

Crossing the Bar - Cruising to Westport

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

Pam and Don Evans, s/v Dream Catcher along with Annie and John Meyer, s/v Shekinah, headed down river, over the BAR up to Westport and back this past month. To many of you world cruisers, this is no big deal but to us it was one more mile post towards the open seas.

Our two boats met down river from St. Helens and cruised on to a wonderful anchorage behind Walker Island for the first night. The second day we were in Astoria making last minute adjustments, Jack Lines, etc. The next morning we left West Mooring Basin about 6am and were on the BAR around 8:15, approx. one hour ahead of high slack. The biggest problem was an extreme gauntlet of fishermen; some whom thought the trolling would be better directly in front of our boats.

The bar at Grays Harbor on the way to Westport

The bar was gentle to us with slow rolling swells and only a short area of confused wave activity. We motored up the coast, five miles off shore under hazy sun and no wind. The swells rocked us a bit but overall it was an uneventful, beautiful trip. Westport’s bar again was no issue and we were tied up to the docks before we knew it. I, the high anxiety one of the group, was greatly relieved to find that, as with most of life, the majority of worry was useless. As Don said, the stories you hear of the BAR are the bad ones or from people who haven’t crossed. However, with a little safe planning and on a nice summer day, it’s a piece of cake.

We spent a day and a half in Westport where we both had relatives drop in for dinners. Then it was time to leave again. Fog limited visibility to ¼ mile and the wind was coming out of the North at about 10 to 15 knots. The swells were bigger and the wind waves slightly confused. Once out of the Westport Bar our sails went up and we both experimented with different types of sailing in a choppy sea. This time we worked our way out to ten miles off shore as we headed down the coast.

The fog totally wiped out any land sighting until Cape Disappointment, but Annie used her Coastal Navigation knowledge to plot our way down, taking readings every 15-30 minutes.  As was always the case, Don and Pam soon were far out in front of us. After about four hours, we radio’d s/v Dream Catcher that we were switching to the iron Genoa as we wanted to get over the Columbia BAR before more fog settled in. Don and Pam, being more adventurous, knowledgeable and faster, sailed on. They called it right. The fog didn’t settle like it does in Westport and they had clear sailing all the way over the BAR and into Ilwaco. We navigated right to Buoy 7 and in, they crossed over Buoy 3 slightly ahead of us. I wish I’d had a camera because the view of their boat on a reach with the North Jetty and fog behind was beautiful.  The BAR was a little more active that evening (although the fisherman were gone), and Don registered winds as high as the upper 20s. That night they went on to Ilwaco and we to Astoria.

We joined up again the next evening for an enjoyable few hours of story telling and note comparing. Finally, the next morning, s/v Shekinah cast off and headed up river. We lucked out and had a comfortable reach all day. Don and Pam were going to hold off until the afternoon and put their Spinnaker to work.

Vacation time was over. It was a baby step for us but an important one. We will continue to respect the BAR and the ocean but it will no longer be an unknown. We’re ready to go again as soon as work permits. I’ve got to add, we didn’t know Don and Pam very well before this trip but if you ever get a chance to cruise with them, do it. They are a wonderful, relaxed couple that has a lot of great and sensible ideas. (Don, your idea on the Auto Pilot really made our up river trip!)

Report from Shekinah's Cruise to Beacon Rock

By John Meyer, C34, Shekinah

In June of this year, Annie and I, along with one of our daughters and her friend headed up to Beacon Rock for a few days.

Most of you’ve been there and it’s as beautiful as ever. Possibly some of you’ve skipped the trip this year due to low waters.

We had the place to ourselves for three nights. The passage into the bay never registered less than 15 ft. The water inside the docks was skinnier and would definitely limit a large group from inside rafting. But, the year is mostly passed now and next year we’ll again have high waters – right?

I did want to pass on, for your planning next year, that the Beacon Rock State Park has completed new restrooms directly above the docks with wonderfully hot, clean showers. Ice can still be had at the trailer park ¼ mile up the road. A little bit of heaven right in our back yards.

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Local Sailing Associations

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• SailPDX (hosted by Oregon Corinthian Sailing Association, OCSA)
• Small Yacht Sailing Club of Oregon (SYSCO)
• Oregon Women’s Sailing Association (OWSA)
• Portland Yacht Club (PYC)
• Rose City Yacht Club (RCYC)

The Columbia River All Catalina Association newsletter is published online once a month. Articles are the opinions of the authors and don’t necessarily represent the consensus of the Association.

200108

Commodore

By Michael Lewis

Well, back to reality! We had a great time in Barkley Sound. It seems that time always goes too fast when you are having a good time. Now back for more fun. Commissioning the new "Wind Raven" is underway. Out for the first test cruise the other night and sailed all the way to the 205 Bridge. I think, I should name it "fast boat."

The big event that I am focusing on is the 2nd Annual Columbia River Catalina Rendezvous. We are expecting 35 plus boats, get your registration in soon, if you have not done so. We need to complete the logistics of food, shirts and the myriad of other things that will make this the most successful Rendezvous yet and make everyone smile. We will have not have to raft up all of the boats, Glenn Johnson has arranged to have the empty slips available for us.

The menu is coming together, ribs and chicken. Frank Butler and Sharon Day are committed. Murphy's Law will be there with their Sea Chanties. Reception Friday Night on the Dock. Saturday Coffee and Donuts. Sunday Brunch and Walk. Great Raffle items. What else could you ask for? Be there!

Secretary/Treasurer

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven
Don't forget to order your burgee if you don't have yours yet - just $20. Roster updates have been sent to members via e-mail and via "snail mail" to those without e-mail. Remember that complete information, e.g. phone numbers, addresses and e-mail addresses will not be in the newsletter that is on our web site.

Be sure to let me know of any changes in the roster information so that we can keep it up-to-date.

Please welcome our new members since the July newsletter---

Roy and Beverly Blace of Vancouver, WA

• Catalina 250 at Tomahawk Bay - E13

Gary and Kathleen Bruner of Battleground, WA

• Catalina 25 - Encore! - is at Kalama, WA - H21

Todd Bellamy and Valerie Inforzato of Camas, WA

• Catalina 27 - Sail La Vie - at Steamboat Landing

The member list is now at 57. Again, welcome to all the new members.

Sailing Encore!

By Gary Bruner, C25, Encore!

I started sailing in 1977 on a Snipe I bought, with no prior sailing experience.  In 1978 I bought a Windrose 18 with a mini cabin, which I took cruising to the San Juans for five years.  In 1983 Kathleen and I bought a swing-keel Catalina 25, 1978 vintage.  We sailed under the name Pacifier until we sold her in 1992 to some friends in the Kalama Sailing Club.  We cruised her in the San Juans every summer for at least a week, sometimes three.

I eventually bought a Tartan 30 which we cruised up the coast to Princess Louisa and raced two times in the Bridge to Bridge race from Astoria to Newport, getting a first in cruising class the first year and a second in Class C the following year.

After selling the Tartan, and sailing a Rhodes designed Tempest 23 for awhile, we decided we needed a bigger boat again.  That very day we saw a for sale sign on our old Catalina 25, so darned if we didn't BUY HER BACK! from our friends who had taken awfully good care of her.  We renamed her Encore!, as we were "going around one more time", and maybe because I teach theatre.

We have cruised the San Juans every year since 1998, the year we bought her back, and for that last two years I've participated in the Banks Gold Rush Race down to Sand Island near St. Helens. This year we were second to finish in our class, but two boats behind us placed ahead on PHRF.  I have entered a total of eight races in my life as skipper (two on the Tartan) and four of the six others were just recently! I have no sails newer than eleven years old, and my 130 Genoa is original!  I made my spinnaker from a kit back in 1984.  I have bought a sock for it, so it's easier to fly without an experienced crew. While I have a pole, foreguy, etc. I choose to fly the chute like an asymmetrical, tacked down at the stem of the bow. It's somewhat slower downwind, but I don't have problems like some boats do.

I am self taught (never had a lesson), but I am finally learning how to sail my little boat closer to her potential. I seen speeds to weather over 6.3 knots, and have once touched 7 knots.  I've achieved 7.9 knots with the spinnaker up.

I'm looking forward to seeing everyone at the Rendezvous.

Burgee Wear Report

By Jim Himes

The long wait is over for the people who ordered our fabulous burgee wear items.

We will have the items at the next meeting. If you want to give us a call and make arrangements to pick your items up earlier, that will work also. There are extra caps, as we had to order 12 at a time. They are in the new Catalina blue color.

Sailing is GOOD!!!!

By Kathleen Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

On August 6th, the new Wind Raven and crew did a test sail, maiden voyage, etc.

The Commodore and First Mate, Michael and Kathleen Lewis accompanied by Glenn and Deane Johnson of Sailboats of Oregon untied the dock lines and raised the sails, departing Hayden Bay at 1730 traveling east toward the I-205 bridge.  Winds were good from the northwest and the sails were full.

We actually went under the bridge under sail, came about and dropped the sails and then motored back to Hayden Bay.  It was important to test all systems, including the “iron jenny”.

We couldn’t measure the wind speed or the exact speed of the boat, but the journey was excellent.  Actually being able to go under the bridge under sail without having to tack and jibe many times to get there was a new and pleasant experience.

August General Meeting - Hayden Island

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

August 18th, 3pm.  The next meeting will be held on Saturday, August 18th at 3:00 PM at Glenn and Deane Johnson's Recreation Room --- Hayden Island on Tomahawk Island Drive.   Watch for the Catalina Banner hanging from the Waterfront Condominiums sign.  The fence gate leading to the Recreation Room will be open.  This is the same place that the Catalina Rendezvous is held.  Just East of Hayden Bay Drive on Tomahawk Island Drive.

Bring  hearty hors d’oeuvres and your own beverage.  The purpose of meeting is to complete the plans for the Rendezvous, Scheduled Events and Responsibilities at this point.  We need lots of help for the Chairpersons.  Show up and enjoy the pool, too.  Here is the list of chairpersons and activities:

John & Annie Meyers

• Saturday Coffee/Donuts
• Dinghy Races
• Sunday Brunch & Walk

Brian & Kathy Lawrence

• Cleanup

La Donna Bubak

• Donations
• Prizes
• Promotion

Deane & Glenn Johnson

• Entertainment
• Murphy’s Law
• Frank Butler/Sharon Day

Jim & Marlene Himes and Deane & Glenn Johnson

• Facility
• Decorating
• Signage

Jim & Marlene Himes and Deane & Glenn Johnson

• Food & Beverages Purchase

Dave & Helen Peoples

• Dinner Preparation  

Craig & Julie Beck

• Rafting
• Wharfinger
• Awards

Walt & Marilyn Wittke and Michael & Kathleen Lewis

• Reception-Friday Night

Bill & Marla Simon

• Registration
• Ticket Sales

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Cruising

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Up River Progressive Cruise Cancelled

By Michael Lewis

THE "UP RIVER PROGRESSIVE CRUISE" IS CANCELLED DUE TO LOW WATER LEVELS.

Sorry maybe next year.  This was scheduled for August 11.  Reed Island is a sandy beach. Beacon Rock is a rocky beach.

Report from the St. Helens Cruise

By Walt Wittke, C27, Miss Tres II

June 16-17.  There was a nice turn out and as usual all of us had a fun, relaxing weekend. What could be better than to go somewhere in your boat, meet some friends, have eats and drinks on board, and hang out?

Members present were:

• Marla & Bill Simon
• Pam and Don Evans
• Terry & Kathy Annis
• Kathy Lawrence, St. Helens resident and member, joined us on the paper mill tour
• (Brian was under the weather--we missed seeing him)
• Eugene Wilkinson & Gordon Smith (77 & 80 young!)
• Kurt & Nancy Riddle and family including the family dog!
• Walt & Marilyn Wittke

As usual there are always other sailors we know at the docks too. Marilyn brought the hors oeuvres dockside. We told a few lies, tall sailing stories, and tipped a few beers with Dan and Maureen and their friends, Steve and Sheila from Texas. Where? TEXAS? Can you believe, TEXAS? To us it was a beautiful Oregon evening but Sheia was freezing while the rest of us were running around in T-shirts. We reminded Sheila that your head determines your body temperature. She didn't believe us, so being a gentleman that I am--I put my hat on her head! She looked so cute with her blond hair and my new greenish hat---In a weak moment, I lost my... cool and SOLD my new West Marine hat. She was so cute wearing it---how could I resist! Herman Zink, a veteran German sailor with his boat "Jubilee", also helped to add to the fun.

As planned, Saturday afternoon we had a nice turn out for the tour of the Boise Cascade paper mill. The club wants to especially thank Diane Dillard, of Boise Cascade, and Jim Doris, retired BC employee, for a great tour of the mill. Everyone who went on the mill tour was really impressed and all raved about all the effort I did to organize the trip! The credit really goes to Diane and Jim. We also want to thank Boise Cascade for allowing the weekend tour for our group. Jim was the greatest tour guide and such a nice person besides. Our only disappointment was that no one from our group thought to bring a camera. It would have been fun to have a picture with all of us in our green plastic hard hats, safety glasses, chlorine respirators, and earplugs for our web page. It was quite a sight! Believe me when I worked there during my college years--we had none of these.

Saturday evening about ten of us had a nice dinner at the Dockside restaurant. It's so much fun to be with a group, be part of a big table of friends, joke around, and to share a meal together. We had such fun and without a drop to drink too---can you believe it? Sunday before we headed home many of us enjoyed sailing above the west end of Sand Island. The winds are particularly good there. It's worth the trip just to sail this area.

That it for now.....Join us on our next great trip and remember...

Why Worry When You Can SAIL! Walt and Marilyn

Report from the Barkley Sound Cruise

By Michael Lewis, C36, Wind Raven

June 23...  After waiting out the storms in Astoria that seemed to be rolling in one after another for several days, the Wind Raven and crew (including Bear, the Newfy) sailed off for the long planned cruise to Barkley Sound.  We were the lonely boat; others had crew mutinies, blown up alternators and family plans that got in the way.   We harbor hopped to weather into Westport, Quillayute River (La Push) and finally, Bamfield in Barkley Sound.  This was a much less taxing run than the midnight express runs we have done before.  All daylight runs and about 60-70 miles per day.  Weather was great for the whole run north except for some stronger NW winds and choppy wind waves off Destruction Island.

The bar at Westport was smooth and no problem.  Westport was very active with Salmon Charters and a fishing derby but still plenty of moorage. Groceries are a good mile hike and limited.  Probably a taxi will get you better choices.  People were crabbing right off the docks with good success.  Fresh Crab, Tuna, and Shrimp are sold on the docks and in a nearby store.  England’s Marine has a store if you need to fix something.   The best attraction was the fresh donut shop on the waterfront, mmm. 

Quillayute River Entrance was much more interesting to enter for your first time.  In fact, the second time was even more interesting.  But more about that later.  The entrance is narrow, large island on your port and surf on your starboard.  You just have to believe your chart and follow it in and then a sharp turn to your starboard.  Watch your depth and do not enter at low water.  Follow the local buoys into the boat basin.  Use the first few docks and do not go too far in on the docks.  It does get shallow at low tide.  They have fuel and a grocery store.  The store is about a mile away and contrary to legend does have beer.

We departed for Bamfield at or near banker’s hours, with 0-4 knots of NW wind, mirror-like ocean conditions, and great motoring.  We overnighted at Bamfield West Side Government Docks.  Spotted several whales and porpoises, too far away for pictures but the thrill was there.  The next morning, our favorite Diesel Guy, Hugh Brock, came in on a Grand Banks Trawler and was found wandering the docks.  Small world!  We explored both sides of Bamfield, walked to the beautiful Brady Beach and took the dinghy to Grappler Inlet.

Cruised around to several great anchorages and enjoyed the time there.  Don’t miss the Port Alberni Yacht Club in Robber’s Passage.  They are great people and very friendly.  No reciprocals but good docks, great trails and even showers.  Great protection from all weather.  The former Greenpeace Ship is here and now a mussel farm. It still has the kills (sinkings and rammings) on the side of the ship.  Most of the shores are rocky and steeper.  Access to beaches and islands are limited.

To drop a few names of places we enjoyed include: Poett Nook, Robber’s Passage, Effingham Bay, Joes Bay and Nettle Island.  The area is well sheltered with few boats and a lot of kayakers.  We only had one exciting weather night in Effingham Bay.  Gale force NW winds sailed down the inlet while we were at anchor. We bounced and sailed around while at anchor all night.  The First Mate went to bed. Bear and the Captain stood anchor watch for the night.

Too soon, it was time to head south and so we went back to Bamfield to set up to go.  After waiting two nights, we finally headed down in the morning fog, afternoon fog and more fog.  Visibility was often less than 100 feet and made one very glad to have radar.   We had the fog right into Quillayute River, which we would not have not gone into without a clear day first to explore the entrance.  The thickest fog was here.  The rock face just looms up and we went right in.  Almost like magic!  We spent the next day exploring the town, touring the Coast Guard Base and viewing the many Bald Eagles.  They were everywhere.

Out the next morning on our way to Westport, praying for wind but alas another windless day and mirror-like ocean.  The good news was no fog.  As it would happen the wind came up to 15 knots, as we entered Westport Harbor and made it challenging to get to the dock.  Same thing happened the next day when we arrived back in Astoria.  Heading back on the last day from Westport to Astoria was a repeat of the wind and ocean conditions.

By the way, Bear (the Newfy) did very well as Second Mate.  Underway he just slept and ate.  Every beach we got to was fair game for swimming.  Only fell into water once albeit at 4:00 AM in the dark.  Missed a step while leaping from the boat to the dock in the dark.  He needed assistance in getting back on the dock and was not happy.  MOB is serious stuff.

For those that what to visit the area but don’t want the ocean part, you can drive/trailer your boat to Port Alberni, BC, launch and sail up the inlet into Barkley Sound.  Great alternative to doing the San Juans.

Next year is approaching, not soon enough for me.  Planning already!  “Oh, the places you’ll go!”

Report from the Astoria (Delta) Cruise

By Dave Thomas, C30, Sunchaser

July 21-29.  Five boats sailed downriver for our annual Astoria (Delta) cruise: Jim & Marlene Himes (R-TIME), Jim & Marlene Redfield (MISCONDUCT), Bill & Marla Simon (WINDSWEPT), Dave & Julie Thomas (SunChaser), Michael McIntyre & P.Y.Pettey (IO). And, joined by Michael Lewis on Wednesday, 7/25. The Simon's and Thomas's departed Thursday, stopping at St Helens -- Sand Island-- for the night. It was a good day. Had a chance to sail, and relax on the Island. It was a windy evening, and both WINDSWEPT & SunChaser, had minds of their own as we docked. The wind continued to blow, and it was a rather rocky night, but we remembered we were having fun.

We departed Sand Island about 0830 Friday, heading on down river to Cathlamet. The Himes & Redfield's sailed from Portland to St. Helens on Friday. We were all meeting at Cathlamet on Saturday. WINDSWEPT & SunChaser arrived at Cathlamet Channel around 1230. Well, the short story goes like this -- WINDSWEPT had a successful passage down the channel.  SunChaser, on the other hand, grounded about a third of the way down.  Deciding against plowing a new channel, we backtracked and sailed around Puget Island, coming in on the downriver entrance. We docked at Elochoman Marina on C dock, several boats in from WINDSWEPT.

Saturday was a busy day at the marina highlighted by the harbormaster, perched on his balcony, directing a drama of more boats coming than going.  Bill & Marla went to town with Julie & I around noon to see the Bald Eagle Days parade. It was great! It captures the essence of rural America. Main street was a mass of booths, food and noise. Later that afternoon R-TIME & MISCONDUCT arrived. By this time little space remained, and they were directed to the other side of the marina and rafted together. The rest of the day was spent walking the docks, meeting people, and looking at boats. That evening a band played, and it all ended with fireworks.

Sunday,0830, WINDSWEPT and SunChaser cast off for Astoria, with MISCONDUCT & R-TIME leaving a little later. We were able to dock together at the West Mooring Basin. IO arrived in the evening with Mike & PY, having come all the way from Portland that day. They were departing the next day for the San Juan's where they plan to keep IO through Labor Day. Monday, true to their plan, hyped and ready to go, they cast off about 12:30. It was a good send-off, horns, cameras, waves and shouts --- they were on their way!

The time in Astoria was spent doing a variety of activities. We all made a number of trips to town for shopping and sightseeing. We made several trips with Bill & Marla, soon discovering that Bill had a magnetic attraction to Englunds Marine Supply, and Marla had an equal attraction to ice cream. Jim & Marlene and Rich & Marlene wanted to sail over to Ilwaco, but the weather suggested otherwise. As it turned out, Rich & Marlene had a friend (Monty) meeting them to go sailing and spend a night. Well, of course, Monty had a car --- Ilwaco & Long Beach here we come! It was a success, the five headed off for fun and food. Rich & Marlene had, several weeks earlier, taken possession of their new Catalina 310. We had a chance to take MISCONDUCT out one afternoon for a day sail. It was windy and gusty that day, but both boat and crew did well. Bill & Marla also sailed that afternoon and measured the wind at 29 knots. Michael Lewis arrived Wed. You couldn't miss him --- he was the guy laying on the finger dock reading a book. We all went to the Portway that evening, had dinner and raised a glass or two.

Thursday, 7/26, SunChaser & WINDSWEPT cast off at 1130, with R-TIME & MISCONDUCT following shortly thereafter. It was a great flood tide ride upriver!

R-TIME & MISCONDUCT stopped at Cathlamet. SunChaser & WINDSWEPT stopped at Walker Island at the Columbia River Yacht Club Dock. We sailed on to Portland the next day, ending the cruise.

On a personal note, Julie & I would like to thank Bill & Marla, Jim & Marlene, Rich & Marlene, Mike & PY, and Michael Lewis for a successful cruise. It was a great opportunity to become better acquainted with other CRACA members and to enjoy the scenic wonders of the Columbia.

Report from the Six-Pac Race/Cruise

By Gary Bruner, C25, Encore!

July 28 - August 3.  Encore!, our 1978 swing-keel Catalina 25 just completed the slow cruising class of the Six-Pac race.  We had a ball!, although the weather could have been better.   We got a 4th in class on the first leg to St. Helens (went too small on the jib too early, argh...), and 2nd on the leg to Stella (a slow spinnaker run until the wind went west near the finish -- lots of boats behind us withdrew and we barely made the time limit!).  The last leg was a spinnaker run from Astoria to Cathlamet.

The first two legs were crewed by my wife, Kathy, and a couple (my wife's teaching partner in primary school), Dan and Anna Brasher. They have only sailed with us a couple of times, the last time over a year ago. Dan helped me deliver the boat to Astoria from Cathlamet.

On Wednesday we raced in the Astoria Cup.  We stayed out of the way of the go-fasts, blew our spinnaker set at the weather mark, and only finished 22 out of the 33 that started, BUT we got to see a wonderful "graveyard" of grounded boats on Desdemona Sands, some of whom didn't get off 'til after 10 PM.

On Wednesday, my brother Bary (athlete but non-sailor) and Mike Conley, a professor with me at Warner Pacific College, who's only been out with me once, came down to crew.  On Thursday, I crewed on a Cal 20 because, as a "cruising class" boat, I wasn't able to race Encore!  For the Friday leg from Astoria to Cathlamet, my crew was Mike Conley, and another professor friend, John Fazio, and my wife.

I would encourage other Catalina owners to consider this race when it comes around again in 2003, because it was a blast!!!!

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Technical Tips

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Water Tank Vents

By Michael Lewis, C42, Wind Raven

"Some days are diamonds and some days are stones.”  Your water tanks may be full but the faucet is empty.  Maybe you thought the tanks were full but still the faucet is empty.  Did you use up all of the water already?

Check the tank vents!  The little screens at the end of the water tank vent lines for the water tanks can be full of something that resemble diamonds, stones or filings.  But nonetheless, no water will come out of the faucet.  Before trying to fill the tanks again, check the vents to make sure they are clear and it may save you some effort.  Just a little trick we learned in Barkley Sound, where water is limited.

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Local Sailing Associations

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• SailPDX (hosted by Oregon Corinthian Sailing Association, OCSA)
• Small Yacht Sailing Club of Oregon (SYSCO)
• Oregon Women’s Sailing Association (OWSA)
• Portland Yacht Club (PYC)
• Rose City Yacht Club (RCYC)

The Columbia River All Catalina Association newsletter is published online once a month. Articles are the opinions of the authors and don’t necessarily represent the consensus of the Association.