 Bill Mattson Well, we equipped ourselves with wet suits early in the season to get in more ocean sailing. We also figured that the suits would allow us to basically sail all winter. Back then it seemed like a good idea. But when it's chilly, the mood to get wet out in the spray and wind just does not appeal to me. This is mean weather in southern California, folks. We've had some days where it dips into the 60s! So, curl up in front of that warm computer monitor and check out this month's outstanding feature from William Wallick. The great writing and photos in this article make this one of those issues I'm especially proud of. Some sailors have trouble jibing, and many won't even try it in heavy air. If you're in this group, check out Mike Hill's tips on The Heavy Air Jibe. Good seamanship always seems to refer to maintenance of your boat and rigging. But what about that thing you cart the boat around on? In his article, Andrej Vlahcevic reminds us about the importance of good trailer maintenance. If the boat's in shape, and the trailer's in shape, what about the sailor? Mark Dawson gives some tips on how to enjoy sailing more by staying in shape when off the water. Also this month, Brian Hollinger offers his experience on keeping a boat on the beach, which points out the need for added precautions. Okay, that's it. I've pretty much emptied the cupboard of articles this month. If you've got an interesting story to share, send it my way at mattson@earthlink.net. Let's keep this thing going another month! Sail fast, sail safe,  William R. Mattson, Editor mattson@earthlink.net |
 Frank Pineau As the end of 1997 draws to a close, it's time for me to do a little reminiscencing about this past years activities: I managed to do a fair amount of sailing, and kept all the important body parts intact. I managed to do some ocean sailing, and kept the boat right side up. I managed to land an H18 on the beach, and only scared half a dozen people or so. (Damn those daggerboards!) I managed to hit some powerlines with my mast, and not kill anybody. (I was VERY lucky!) And I managed to write almost all of my editorials for this year. (OK, so I was in Hawaii for one, and Mexico for the other!) Not bad for a season when your almost 50. I personally and publicly want to thank Bill for putting together some really incredible issues this year. Bill does 99% of the work on this E-zine. I just try and show up on the occasional jet powered trailer, HobieCat, or Aim 9 missile range. As Bill and I were remarking the other day, the part of sailing that bothers me the most is the awakening to the odor of "smelling salts". The rides in the ambulance are usually quite fun. Hoping this year found all of you with fond memories of our shared sport. Have a Merry Christmas!  Frank Pineau, Editor Next Month: Nothin' Yet! Cover Photo by William Wallick |
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