march 2013
DESCRIPTION
The March 2013 issue of the WindjammerTRANSCRIPT
Houston Yacht Club March 2013
2012-2013 Flag Officers Commodore: Bob Wright,
Vice Commodore: Nancy Edmonson, [email protected]
Rear Commodore: Robert Williams,
Line Officers Fleet Captain: Gordie Keenan: [email protected] Secretary: Ken Humphries,
Treasurer: Steve Gillett, [email protected] Measurer: Derek Beck, [email protected]
Trustees Gary Banks: [email protected]
Madonna Breen: [email protected]
Farley Fontenot: [email protected] Paul Francis: Pfrancis@ Bakerlaw.com
Lawrence Maher: [email protected]
Andrew McStay: [email protected] Bob Wells: [email protected]
Jack Yoes: [email protected]
Honorary Officers Fleet Historian: Sam Akkerman 713-526-0482
Fleet Surgeon: Dr. Michael Lucas 281-881-0265
Fleet Chaplain: Linda Christians 713-875-7454
Other Contacts Ensigns: Carol Lee Hollister 281-867-5068 Entertainment: Barbara Matuszak 281-471-1988;
Debbie Cardenas 281-470-6602; Danna Jennings
713-247-9331 Harbor Committee: Bob Wells 281-471-0066
Heritage & Standards: P/C Ginny Garrett 281-471-
6131 House & Grounds: Ed Matuszak 281-471-1988
Ladies Association: Martha Gillett 281-471-4568
Membership: Andrew McStay 713-522-3201 Memorial Fund: Judy Lamkin: 281-471-2130
Mosquito Fleet: John Peter 281-471-8468
Race/Regatta: June Shaw 713-629-7747 Ragnots: Amy Beck, 281-480-0278; Maya Houston,
713-723-0868
WSA: Terry Eukel 281-531-7123 Yachting Committee: Jack Yoes 281-480-1115
Staff General Manager: Ross Tuckwiller Ex. 106
Harbor & Facilities: David Hampp Ex. 107
Food & Beverage: Sandy Tuckwiller Ex. 104 Accounting: Barbara Belansky Ex. 141
Sailing Director: Katrina Williams Ex. 149
Member Services Administrator: Julie Dunlap Ex. 100 Marketing: Jennifer Glass Ex. 150
WINDJAMMER is published monthly by:
Houston Yacht Club
P.O. Box 1276 La Porte, TX 77572-1276.
Telephone 281-471-1255
Fax 281-471-9260
Deadline for the April issue is March 15. e-mail: [email protected]
Please call the HYC Office with your ads
Commodore’s Corner
February has come and gone, and my
Commodore year seems to be flying by.
I am yet again reminded of what a won-
derful Club HYC is, and not just for
local events.
HYC has recently learned that The Gulf
Yachting Association (GYA) has be-
come a Founding Member of the Na-
tional Sailing Center & Hall of Fame in
Annapolis, Maryland. GYA, and HYC
as one of its Charter Members, joins an
expanding list of yacht clubs and sailing
organizations in the United States in
supporting the National Sailing Center &
Hall of Fame as it preserves America's
sailing legacy and engages the next gen-
eration of American sailors.
I personally want to thank Jack and
Cissy Yoes and their many volunteers,
because of their efforts HYC is begin-
ning its 10th year in support of the Spe-
cial Olympics sailing.
It was a very active month with various
organizational planning meetings for the
upcoming year, and it also saw a number
of wonderful events at the Club.
Mardi Gras came to HYC, and the ac-
tivities couldn't have been more fun or
better attended. Thanks to John and
Becky Peter, HYC members were able
to purchase Mardi Gras beads at Happy
Hour on Friday night, and on Saturday,
folks came out in force - costumed,
masked, and bedecked with what can
only be described as "Mardi Gras
Bling".
Thanks to Cissy and Jack Yoes, the fes-
tivities kicked off with HYC's own
Yachty Gras boat parade complete with
kayaks, power boats and sailboats -
themed, decorated and wired for sound.
As the boats paraded by, beads flew
from boat to pier and pier to boat, with a
large number falling short of their mark
and gracing the waters of the harbor.
Early in the day, the Mosquito Fleet be-
gan to work their magic, and immedi-
ately following the parade, they did it
again - another SOLD OUT fish fry!
With the help of a myriad of volunteers,
150 lucky people dined on fried fish,
coleslaw, French fries, hushpuppies,
green beans, salad and a variety of des-
serts and danced the night away to music
DJ'd by Ed Matuszak.
As a final note to the evening, awards
were given out by yours truly to various
participants in the parade based on a
number of criteria of my own choosing -
primarily on creative design and their
"Wow" factor. First place went to
HYC's own committee boat Countdown
"krewed" by Gordie and Ruth Keenan
and their ever-rowdy and inventive pals;
2nd place went to Ed and Marsha Blue-
stein on their beautiful boat Rebound;
and 3rd place went to Jack and Cissy
Yoes on Valentine. However, one boat
was selected not only for its stunning
skipper and her beautiful mask, but also
for its concern for the environment - 4th
place went to Andrea Zaite on her kayak
who spent a great deal of time collecting
those beads that I earlier referred to as
having fallen short of their mark.
Thanks, Andrea, for protecting our props
and water intakes!
The following weekend was graced by
the Ladies Association Valentine's Day
Dinner, and I must say that this group
certainly knows how to deliver an ele-
BY BOB WRIGHT Commodore
2 WINDJAMMER March 2013
CONTINUES on page 3
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 3
ON THE COVER HYC members en-joy the Yachty Gras Boat Parade which was held recently at HYC. See photos
on page 5.
Cover Photo By Ed Matuszak
FEATURED INSIDE
The WSA In Town Party was a huge
success.
See story and photos on page 6.
News
Racing Action In Full Swing at HYC
On-the-water racing action during the HYC Mid-Winter Regatta.
gant and entertaining evening. Approxi-
mately 35 couples enjoyed an amazing
steak and seafood dinner, plated and
served by HYC's wonderful staff, danced
to music provided by John Peter, and
enjoyed a bit of "Not So Newly-Wed
Game" entertainment provided by a num-
ber of unsuspecting couples/victims.
Thanks to Martha Gillett, Danna
Jennings and all of their volunteers,
Sandy and Ross and our own HYC staff
for a wonderful evening.
The WSA In-Town party was held at The
Maritime Museum in Houston and was
reportedly a huge success. I have been
told that a number of the women are
planning a road trip to take their hus-
bands/significant others back to this
venue, and I for one am really looking
forward to it.
The Entertainment Committee hosted a
Go Texan Day Happy Hour on Friday the
22nd, and the array of western attire was
a sight to see. John Peter kept the west-
ern hits coming all night, and everyone
enjoyed a rousing game of "Western
Trivia". Thanks go out to Barbara
Matuszak, Debbie Cardenas, Danna
Jennings and their entire committee for
putting on such a kickin' evening.
The main racing event in February was
the Mid-Winter Regatta, and Race &
Regatta did a wonderful job in coping
with the less than predictable weather. In
addition to the great racing, Gordie and
Jay provided entertainment for one great
party in the Porthole.
There are a number of events to look
forward to in March. The Mosquito
Fleet BBQ Cook-off is set for March 9,
along with the Blessing of the Pits and
Barn Dance. That same weekend we will
also be hosting the Optimist National
Team Practice March 9-10. These young
sailor will be representing the USA in
competition around the world. Several
HYC Opti sailors will be invited to at-
tend the training.
On March 15, Gary Jobson will be at
HYC to kick off this year's Leukemia
Cup Regatta and if you have not had the
opportunity to hear Gary speak in the
past, this is a must-do evening. The eve-
ning is sure to be filled with a lot of
laughs, some great stories, and some
amazing video footage.
The Ladies Association will have their
Spring Style Show March 22, and Las
Vegas Night comes to HYC March 23,
compliments of the Entertainment Com-
mittee. Finally, the Mosquito Fleet/
Yachting Committee will be doing their
annual Easter Weekend Cruise to Oak
Island March 29-31. Whether you go by
land or by sea, this is an event you
shouldn't miss. As we put the frigid
Houston winter behind us, I look forward
to Opening Day and fun activities that
the spring will bring.
If you have not had the opportunity to
become a part of one of the many com-
mittees that make HYC the great place
that it is but have a special interest or
talent that you would like to share, I
would urge you to let us know so that we
can make sure you are not left out of the
fun. Whether your interests lie in racing,
general organization, construction, land-
scaping, or entertainment, there is always
a place for you at HYC.
CONTINUED from page 2
HYC hosted the Mid-Winter Regatta and had
a great turnout – 42 boats with 2 lines. The
pursuit racers raced both days and the wind-
ward/leeward races were cancelled due to
weather Sunday. A new tradition was started
this year and the winning boats were awarded
with brag flags for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.
After the races on Saturday the sailors were
treated to a great after party which included
music by our own “Jamming with Jay”
group. The Mid-Winter perpetual trophy was
awarded to Darren Rose, skipper of Richard
III in the lightning class.
This event was a first for a few people who I
would like to mention that helped make the
Mid-Winters a great success, Debbie and
John Cardenas did an excellent job as chairs
for the events, Terry Cantrell was the PRO
BY JUNE SHAW Race and Regatta
CONTINUES on page 4
4 WINDJAMMER March 2013
News
2013 HYC Mid-Winter Regatta
for the Pursuit line, Steve Morehouse and
David Hampp got all our flag and race
committee bags in order. So remember just
because you haven’t been involved before
there is always a first time and we would
love to have your help.
Have you heard? Jack Yoes was just ap-
pointed as a National Race Officer for U.S
Sailing. When you see him, be sure to con-
gratulate him on this honor. Our club now
has two members who have earned this
certification, the other being Jim Tichenor.
Our next event is the Elissa Regatta April
6-7 which will be chaired by Robert and
Judie Williams. I am sure they could use
some help, so when you see them ask what
you can do to help. This is our 27th year of
hosting the Regatta and raising funds for
the tall ship Elissa. See you on the water.
CONTINUED from page 3
2012 Cruise to Oak Island
Cruise to Oak Island with the Yachting Committee and Mosquito Fleet
over Easter Weekend
March 29-31 Make your plans now. Limited slips available
Party in the Pavilion Friday evening Happy Hour
Saturday evening Bring Your Own Meat Grill
Make reservations with Cruise Captains: Jack Yoes: [email protected] or 409 692-0606
Cissy Yoes: [email protected] or 409 771-7685
Help sponsor the Easter Parade and Easter Egg Hunt – Great Fun! If traveling by car, there are a few hotel rooms available.
Call 409.252.3474 for details.
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 5
NEWS
HYC members have a ball at the Yachty Gras Boat Parade.
HYC Members sparkle during the Commodore’s Ball. Pictured above: R/C Robert Williams, Charles Griffey, V/C Nancy Edmon-son with Stephanie and Commodore Bob Wright.
June and David McMillin, Kathryn Ley and P/C John and Carol Nicholson have fun at the Mosquito Fleet Fish Fry
2013 Commodore’s Ball
Carol Nicholson, Lythia Powell, Andrea Zaite, Joan van Raven-swaay, Sabra Francis, Cherie Le Compte, Barbara Matuszak, Leslie Wells, Ruth Keenan and Anne Lee.
6 WINDJAMMER March 2013
WSA
WSA and Windward Bound - 30 years of Sailing Fun
2013 is a special year for Women's Sailing Association and
Windward Bound Sailing Camp! It is the 30th Anniversary for
both. All sorts of plans are underway for celebrations through the
year in conjunction with our traditional events.
February was just the start of a busy year. WSA hosted a Family
Games night at HYC Feb. 15. Weather kept the crowd to a mod-
est but active group. It is kind of nice to slow down and spend
time together. Sailors are competitive on and off the water.
The In Town Party was a huge success. This time the party was
held at the Maritime Museum with very knowledgeable docents
sharing their experience with us. There is a lot to learn besides
the how to make a sailboat go fast. We had quite a turnout of old
and new friends, fabulous food, and an interesting venue. Many
thanks to Terri Benson and Lou Rosenfeld for making it happen.
Plans for Windward Bound (June 5-8) are moving along quickly.
Camp Directors Madonna Breen and Anne Lee are full of sur-
prises and are packing the schedule with lots of sailing/instruction
and of course lots of fun. Expect some old and some new tricks
from this duo. At least 13 people have already signed up. If you
want to come to camp or know someone who does, sign up now
(application is online on WSA page) before camp fills up!
Lou Rosenfeld is WSA’s Education Committee Chairman.
Watch for details on a big boat seminar, a CPR class and maybe a
fun (happy hour) navigation related evening.
July will be yet another busy month. A Moonlight Anniversary
Sail is set for July 20th. If you have a keelboat and would be will-
ing to take other WSA members on the Moonlight Sail, please
contact Patty Ward.
Put July 27 on your calendar for a special luncheon - WSA Fash-
ions Then & Now. Cindy McMordie has plans for a humorous
look at sailing fashions from 1983 to 2013. All HYC members
are invited to attend and bring their friends.
As part of the Anniversary celebration, Laura Donley
([email protected]) is heading a group to create a
WSA archive. Please let Laura know if you have notebooks,
albums, documents or photos of WSA events over the past 30
years or would be willing to help sort through scrapbooks and
notebooks. The group met Feb. 22 to begin the process.
Order your special WSA 30th Anniversary Shirt. Contact Julie
Goetschius or Sandra Baldridge to order the shirt so you proudly
wear it to HYC events. Don't be left out this year - join in the
fun!
BY TERRY EUKEL WSA
Mary Vance, P/C Cheryl Thomas and Patty Ward were on hand for the WSA In Town Party, which was held at the Maritime Mu-seum.
Terry Eukel and Terri Benson
Andrea Zaite & Susan Ehrhardt Anne Lee & Neave Nunes
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 7
Ladies Association
Janis and Lee Wiley
LADIES ASSOCIATION NEWS By Martha Gillett
Ladies Association President
What a fabulous Valentine Dinner we had.
We had 65 people in attendance. The food
and decorations were fantastic.
A huge thank you to Sandy Tuckwiller and
her staff for a super job. Also a huge thank
you to John Peter for being our DJ. The
music was perfect for all the dancing that
took place. For those of you who were not
able to attend, I can say without a doubt that
you missed a great party! We played the
“Not so Newlywed” game and laughed until
our faces hurt. You talk about really get to
know our HYC family, we took it to the
next level. Those participating in the game
were Commodore Bob and Stephanie
Wright, Doug and Helen Hansen, Gordie
and Ruth Keenan, Paul and Sabra Francis,
Craig and Jeanette Bland, Laura and John
Donley and Janis and Lee Wiley. They
were great sports and had great stories.
Our next event is the Spring Style Show
with a twist on Friday, March 22 starting at
11:30 a.m. Linda McKee is heading up this
event and has something different in mind
for this show. Reservations are a must;
please call the Club Office today.
Games Day will be Wednesday, March 27.
We have been enjoying bridge and card
games. Please come join us for fun and
lunch. RSVP to Judy Lamkin at malam-
[email protected]. Please note the date for the
Spring Style Show has been changed from
Wednesday to Friday. We made this
change in hopes we could get some of the
working folks to attend. Many have Friday
or at least Friday afternoons off.
In April, we are headed to Shangri La Bo-
tanical Gardens in Orange, Texas. Watch
for details in the weekly and/or emails from
me.
Hope to see you around at these events.
Camille and P/C Jim Tichenor
(Above) Linda McKee, Anna Matthews and Susan Williams. (Right) Becky and John Peter
Rod and Pat Rothermel Doug and Helen Hansen
(Pictured left to right) Commodore Bob and Stephanie Wright; Craig and Jeanette Bland
8 WINDJAMMER March 2013
Membership
During the upcoming month we will be
focused on developing and following up
on potential new members.
This push begins with our participation in
the Southwest International Boat Show
that runs March 21-24.
The HYC booth at the show has, over the
last few years, provided us with dozens of
potential new members and resulted in a
substantial number of new members.
We always need help in manning our
booth and if you have a few hours to spare,
and particularly if you were planning on
attending the Boat Show anyway, we hope
you will consider volunteering to help out
at our booth.
The work is easy; simply share with inter-
ested visitors your love of HYC! Contact
Jennifer Glass at 281.471.1255 or
[email protected] if you can
help and she will schedule you for the time
of your choice.
On April 28 the Membership Committee
will host a follow up event to the Boat
Show that we call our Family Fun Day.
This is where we invite all the families
who have expressed an interest in HYC
either from the Boat Show or our other
recruitment contacts to share a day of fun
on the water at HYC.
We are excited that this year the Ragnot
group will join us in hosting this event and
be available to not only describe the sum-
mer sailing camps but answer any (even
current members) questions about our
youth program.
Mark the date on your calendar and stop
by to learn more about youth sailing and
meet and greet some potential new mem-
bers. Remember, you are our best sales
tool.
The best time of the year for fun on the
water is coming up. Get ready for our
Opening Day weekend, get the boat in
shape (as if that is ever checked off the “to
do” list) and get ready to really enjoy our
home on the bay. Smooth sailing and be
safe.
The following applications were approved
at the February Board of Trustees Meeting:
James and Edith Hodges; Senior
Membership (Former HYC); Recruit-
ing Sponsor: David McMillin
Michael and Katharina Upchurch;
Limited Retiree Membership; Recruit-
ing Sponsor: Jim Tyson
The following applications have been sub-
mitted for March:
Nick Wilson; Junior 25-29 Member-
ship; Recruiting Sponsor: Membership
Committee
Pieter and Barbara Wybro; Senior
Membership; Recruiting Sponsor: Ron
Gerdes
Maury and Fredrica Rubenstein; Lim-
ited Retiree Membership; Recruiting
Sponsor: Membership Committee
Cyril and Catherine Tawa; Senior
Membership; Recruiting Sponsor:
Membership Committee
Jason and Laura Thomas; Non-
Resident Membership; Recruiting
Sponsor: Ron Gerdes
Five Membership Applications Submitted For March BY ANDREW MC STAY Membership Committee
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 9
News
BITTS AND TALES By Vice Commodore Nancy Edmonson
It’s Oscar season at HYC. Over the past
year, we have had some outstanding per-
formances here at the Club that merit rec-
ognition. Some awards are well-deserved,
some are tongue in cheek, and some are
both. Some require some explanation, oth-
ers don’t. So with no further ado, the win-
ners are…
Original Screenplay – New HYC
Website, Ann Bordelon and David
McMillin. These two master storytell-
ers wrote and edited every word you
see on our fine new web site—a huge
job and one well done.
Foreign Language Film – La Bamba,
Bill van Ravenswaay. You may think
this is just a song, but with Bill at the
mic, it is a feature presentation.
Animated Feature Film – Ragnot
Camp 2012, Camp Directors Maya
Houston and Amy Beck. What could
be more animated than two camps, 30
kids, 10 days and nights?
Cinematography – December/
January 2012-13 Windjammer, Joan
van Ravenswaay, Ed Matuszak,
Vivian Griffey and Dmitriy Yegorov.
Check out the photography in that
edition if you haven’t already. The
issue is posted online on our website
at: http://houstonyachtclub.com/
OurClub/News.aspx
Costume Design – Happy Harbor,
Patty Ward and Linda McKee. Patty
and Lulu made their annual appear-
ance in their most stylish camper
clothes at Windward Bound Camp.
Makeup and Hairstyling – Mardi
Gras Fish Fry, James Liston. I am not
sure whether any make-up was in-
volved but you should have seen the
hair!
Production Design – New Deck be-
tween Beachcomber and Crane Pad,
P/C Pat Gibson, P/C By Baldridge,
R/C Robert Williams, John Cardenas,
Bob Green, Derek Beck, Commodore
Bob Wright, Darren Rose, Bob Wells
and John Donley. When they say they
are the “Done By One” committee,
they mean one o’clock, not one per-
son. What a team!
Visual Effects – 2013 Commodore’s
Ball, Stephanie Wright. The ballroom,
dining room, and stairwell looked
beautiful, and even Stephanie’s dress
was coordinated with the decorations.
Original Song – Variations on “In
Seaport Town”, Ross Griffey. Hey, it
helps when your mother is the Acad-
emy.
Original Score – Jammin’ With Jay,
Jay Grills, Gordie Keenan, Ginny
Garrett and Madonna Breen. The in-
comparable ensemble livened up the
Porthole on a couple of occasions—a
must see performance.
Director – Lightning North American
Regatta, Paul and Sabra Francis. John
Ford and Martin Scorsese had it easy.
Paul and Sabre had 10 days, 100
boats, and 300 people to direct – an
epic picture!
Sound Editing/Mixing – Commo-
dore’s Ball After Party, John Peter.
I’ll bet the winners at those “other”
Oscars didn’t have to do their best
work at 3 a.m. in the morning.
Supporting Actress – Taking Port
Commissioner to Task, Janis Wiley.
For those of you who don’t know this
story, Janis’ relentless questioning of
one of the Port Commissioners at the
May 2012 Port of Houston meeting
about the dredge spoil issue was a
bravura performance. Don’t mess with
Janis!
Supporting Actor – HYC Bar, Mel
Blackmon. No explanation needed
here!
Actress in Lead Role – Spinnaker
Pole Failure on Sea Nymph, Andrea
Zaite. The drama, the blood, the high
seas…Quentin Tarantino, eat your
heart out.
Actor in Lead Role – Club Champi-
onship 2012, Ian Edwards. While the
Club sponsors many sailing races over
the year, this one brings with it brag-
ging right for a full year and merits
recognition. Ian also had the help of a
fine supporting cast in this important
role.
Best Picture – Saving Galveston Bay,
accepting the award is the entire mem-
bership, employees, and friends of
HYC.
For those who didn’t win this year, there is
always next year. I am expecting some
highly competitive performances in 2014
and beyond (and I can be bribed!).
10 WINDJAMMER March 2013
News
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 11
News
Join us for the HYC Mosquito Fleet BBQ Cookoff, Blessing of the Pits & Barn Dance March 9 start-
ing at 2 PM at HYC. This is a family event; don’t miss the fun. For complete details and a schedule of events, please visit us online at: www.houstonyachtclub.com
Please join us for the
LEUKEMIA CUP REGATTA KICKOFF PARTY MARCH 15
featuring National Chairman and former America’s Cup winner Gary Jobson who will share his beautiful sailing videos Friday, March 15 starting at 7 p.m. There will be a Raffle, Fundraising Packets, Computer Fundraising Signup and Gary’s autographed books as well as 2013 regatta shirts will be available to purchase. The Friday Night Buffet will be available before and after the pro-gram. RSVP: HYC 281-471-1255
ENSIGN FLEET TWO: MOMENT IN HISTORY By P/C Ginny Garrett
As the saying goes, “from tiny acorns, mighty oaks doth grow.”
The acorn for HYC’s Ensign Fleet Two celebrating its 50th anni-
versary this year is described below in a few excerpts from the
Minutes of the organizational meeting of Electra Ensign Class
Fleet Number 2, held April 5, 1963 in the home of Rufus G.
Smith, in La Porte.
Mr. Henry K. Arnold was nominated as President and Mr.
Rufus G. Smith was nominated as Secretary Treasurer. Both
were elected unanimously.
It was resolved that dues be $5.00 per year with $2.00 to go to
the National Association and $3.00 to be retained for Fleet #2.
It was further resolved that Barry Rose be designated Chair-
man of the Scheduling Committee.
A Fleet Championship would be held and consist of 5 – 7
races on weekends after Labor Day. The Fleet Representative
to the Ensign Nationals would be determined by the order of
finish in the HYC Championship. Racing crews would con-
sist of not less than 3 and not more than 6 persons, children
under 10 years of age not counted. The official sails adopted
were: the regular full size Main, Working Jib, No. 1 and No.
2 Genoas, and Spinnaker to limits of the Off-Soundings Rule.
A Cruise/Rendezvous was planned for early summer with a
social gathering to precede it by two weeks. The Roses of-
fered their home for this event. Respectfully submitted, Helen K. Smith, Secretary
12 WINDJAMMER March 2013
WSA
Past Commodore Ginny Garrett was there
when the Women’s Sailing Association
was founded in 1983. As chairman of
HYC’s Heritage and Standards Committee,
she helps Fleet Historian Sam Akkerman
maintain the HYC archives, which makes
her an ideal person to consult about the
early years of WSA.
The early years of WSA were busy ones,
featuring a lot of learning, sailing and so-
cial activities.
As mentioned in last month’s article, the
success of Windward Bound Sailing Camp
in the summer of 1983 led to the founding
of WSA the following October. 1983 was
also the year that Ginny Garrett, Florence
Helm, Lynne Stout and Ellyn Roof set out
to create a trophy to be given to a WWB
participant for outstanding effort and
achievement in furthering women’s par-
ticipation in the sport of sailing.
“We found a bronze casting at the Crow’s
Nest Art Gallery in La Porte, and asked
HYC member Clark Morris to make a base
for it,” Ginny remembers. The casting is a
replica of the America’s Cup competitors
in 1893, the Vigilant and the Valkyrie on a
windward bound course. They were sand-
cast by Scott Nelles of Rapid City, Michi-
gan. The first recipient, announced in De-
cember of 1983, was Anne Sheffield, first
president of WSA.
WSA’s theme for 1984 was “Get Ready!
Get Set! Go W.S.A!” The year began with
a seminar on navigation and continued
with a cooking program, a Launch Party
(“Tasty Treats and Bowls of Bloody
Marys”), a Big Boat Sail (“Ladies of the
Evening”), a Dry-dock Party, a Halloween
Balloon Race and a Hot Buttered Rum
Party in November. When the weather
allowed, some of the members gathered
once a week to sail and enjoy each other’s
company.
In June of 1984, WSA hosted a cocktail
party for competitors in the Solo Nationals
and the Sunfish North Americans. The
party was so successful that the competi-
tors requested an encore so WSA contin-
ued to sponsor parties for the entire week.
This was the beginning of a rich history of
supporting racing events at HYC.
1985: More Sailing, A Logo In 1985, the seminars were called TNT
sessions (“Tactics ‘N’ Techniques), and
activities included a Bluebonnet Cruise
(bus tour to Brenham), Spring Rush (to get
new members), Moonlight & Snooze
Cruise (evening sail and slumber party on
the third floor of HYC) and an evening
when WSA members took the HYC Staff
for a sail and then fed them barbecue.
Weekly sails continued and, in August,
WSA reported it had 108 members.
In September, WSA donated $3,800 to the
America II syndicate to support their bid
for the America’s Cup.
Ginny also remembers when the WSA
logo was created in 1985. WSA member
Nancy White came up with the original
design featuring a sailboat with HYC em-
blazoned on the mainsail and the initials
WSA forming the jib. “Florence and I
discussed the color scheme for the logo
one day. She was in favor of red, white
and blue, but I wanted to add pink because
it was women’s group. Florence said you
couldn’t mix red and pink, but I found a
packet of Sweet ‘N’ Low on the table with
a pink background and red and blue letter-
ing. It looked fine to me.” Ginny must
have been happy later when Wilhelmina
the pink flamingo became Windward
Bound’s mascot.
Windward Bound Continues Meanwhile, WSA’s premier activity was
still Windward Bound Camp and P/C
Garrett was active in its operation. Ellyn
Roof and Lynn Stout were in charge of
instruction for the campers, but Ginny
Garrett and Florence Helm were adminis-
trators of the four-day event.
Ginny describes early WWB schedules.
“Campers checked in on Tuesday. Since
the dining room was closed that day, we
had our first dinner at El Toro in down-
town La Porte in 1984,” she recalls.
“Later, we had food catered on the club
grounds for the first night.”
“We were strict about the women not hav-
ing any contact with their husbands, boy-
friends or children. We wanted them to be
away from their usual responsibilities and
focus on learning to sail. Once or twice we
caught husbands trying to talk to their
wives through the fence, but they were
sent away quickly. I don’t know if you
could get women to do that now,” she
says, smiling.
Absence, in most cases, caused the heart to
grow fonder and the closing banquet, with
families in attendance, turned into a family
reunion. “We got very creative, trying to
be sure that each camper got an award and
some recognition,” Ginny recalls. “Sally
Berner once received an award for Out-
standing Achievement in Heaving. She
wasn’t seasick, but she was quite good at
heaving a line.”
In those days, the awards were engraved
silver bowls, cups, mugs and plates, simi-
lar to the ones given to regatta winners at
the time. Ginny and Florence spent a lot
of time in the engraving room, making
P/C Ginny Garrett Focuses on WSA’s Early Years BY ANN BORDELON
Special to the Windjammer
Past Commodore Ginny Garrett
CONTINUES on page 13
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 13
WSA
sure each camper had a souvenir of their
time at camp.
Ginny remembers a few glamour campers
who brought lots of clothes. But the
WWB administrators and instructors were
serious about the curriculum. “We had
CPR, knot tying and instruction in sailing
Sunfish, Ensigns and bigger boats from the
very beginning,” Ginny notes. Campers
received WWB T-shirts and loose-leaf
notebooks full of instructional materials
just as they do today. Soon, the campers
decided they should spoof the instructors at
the closing day breakfast, a tradition con-
tinues today.
Ginny and Florence directed Windward
Bound Camp for three years. The third
year, Patty Frederick joined them to see
how it was done. The fourth year, Patty
was a co-director of camp. These days,
Ginny and Florence still have a role at
camp, serving as the wake-up crew each
morning.
“Even as a director, Windward Bound was
like a vacation,” Ginny notes. “We were
away from our usual routines and all fo-
cused on classes and sailing. Not only did
we find a pastime we could enjoy through-
out the years, but we also formed lifetime
friendships. Those friendships were very
special.”
In years since, many campers, counselors
and WSA members continued their friend-
ships by serving together on various
HYC’s committees, strengthening the
club’s volunteer base. Ginny herself served
on almost every committee in the club and
became HYC’s first female commodore in
1999.
Anne Sheffield was the first winner of the Windward Bound Women's Sailing Trophy.
Women’s Sailing Association 30
th Anniversary Events
These events will be held during 2013 in
addition to traditional WSA events.
July 20 - Anniversary Moonlight Sail
July 27 - WSA Fashions Then & Now
A humorous look at sailing fashions
from 1983 to 2013. All HYC members
are invited to attend and bring their
friends.
August 10 – Sail to High Tea
This year’s event will focus on the his-
tory of Sail to High Tea. The WSA 30th
Anniversary DVDs will be distributed at
this event.
October - WSA Month at HYC
WSA members are asked to wear their
30th Anniversary shirts to HYC through-
out the month.
October 4 - WSA Anniversary Happy
Hour & Reunion
Join us for special hors d’oeuvres and a
WSA Birthday Cake. All HYC members
and former WSA members are invited.
FOR LEASE
2 BEDROOM, 1 1/2 BATH, 2 STORY,
Bay Colony Condo, 615 Bay Colony Drive, #8.
Great for full time or
second home. No smoking project
$700/month.
Call Florence Helm at 281-471-5790
for details.
14 WINDJAMMER March 2013
Ragnots
Youth Summer Sailing Program Registration Starts March 1
Skip Whyte, renowned US National Olym-
pic 470 coach, came to HYC Jan. 18-20 to
give an Advanced 420 clinic. Fourteen
young sailors from across the region par-
ticipated. The high-level, focused 420
coaching challenged everyone, and the
competition on the racecourse is sure to
heat up as a result.
In high school sailing news, Lutheran
South High School is ready to get on the
water! Students, many of whom
are completely new to sailing, are practic-
ing with Sailing Director Katrina Williams
on alternating weekends.
Valentine's Day Regatta We had four Ragnots sailing under the
HYC burgee at this very light wind but fun
event held in St. Petersburg, Florida Feb.
2-3. Congratulations to Ryan Vittimberga
who placed 7th overall, Max Vittimberga
who placed 37th overall, Abi Beck who
placed 127th overall and Kiera O' Reardon
who placed 128th overall. The following
is a Regatta Report submitted by Abi
Beck:
Every year in February, St. Petersburg
hosts a venue for the Opti and Laser fleets
called the Valentine’s Day Regatta. This
year I was a part of the Opti fleet. One
thing I love about this regatta is to see new
sailors compete. Sadly there was not a lot
of wind, but we managed to get in four
races. I’ve learned from this regatta that
there can be a lot of line sag, but you have
the opportunity to roll on top of them if you
get a good start. When I was at the regatta
I sailed with Juan Carlos and his team. I
met new friends and was taught many
things from Coach Carlos. I learned new
strategies that I can use at practice and in
future regattas. I always learn new lessons
at St Petersburg that make me a better
sailor mentally and physically. I had a
blast in Florida and can’t wait to return
next year to get some bullets!
Submitted by Abi Beck
The first regatta of the Texas Sailing Asso-
ciation season was held at LYC Feb. 9-
10. In the FJ fleet, Ian Beck with crew
Rachel Walston placed 2nd and Richmond
Keeling with crew Grace Bulgerin placed
7th. In the Laser 4.7, Charlotte Rose
placed 2nd and Christine Kendrick placed
3rd. Vanessa Keeling placed 10th in Laser
Radials. Abi Beck placed 3rd in Opti Red,
Jake Bulgerin placed 8th in Opti Red, and
Alex Wise placed 15th in Opti Blue.
Upcoming Events
The Optimist US National Team will hold
practices at HYC March 9-10.
Summer program registration will open
March 1. In order to plan our summer
sailing staff, there will be a late registra-
tion fee after May 1. So please get signed
up right away! Until then, the Spring Sail-
ing Program will begin March
23. Throughout the spring regular prac-
tices will be held for Optis, Lasers, and
420s on weekday evenings and on week-
ends.
Summer will kick-off with Overnight
Camp, both Junior and Senior, June 9-
14. The Summer Program will run from
June 17- Aug. 9. Look for more details
online soon.
Finally, the Ragnot dads are working on
their barbecue recipes for the March 9
cook off! It's looking to be a very busy
year for the Ragnots, and we are all look-
ing forward to seeing you on the water.
BY MARIE WISE Special to the Windjammer
Pictured above are some of the Skip Whyte 420 Clinic participants.
Several Ragnots recently participated in the TSA Kick-Off Regatta at LYC. Pictured left to right include: Grace Bulgerin, Richmond Keeling, Rachel Walston, Ian Beck, Abi Beck, Charlotte Rose and front row: Alex Wise and Jake Bulgerin.
Charlotte Rose is being towed for a prac-tice run by Coach Zach Railey. Charlotte recently participated in the 2013 Laser Mid-winters East Regatta held at Clearwater Yacht Club. Regatta results were not avail-able at press time; please see the April issue for details.
March 2013 WINDJAMMER 15
March Dining Room Specials Wednesday Night Specials
March 6: Smothered Steak
March 13: Catfish Dinner
March 20: Seafood Pasta
March 27: Louisiana Style Barbecue Shrimp
Thursday Night Specials
March 7: Beef Wellington
March 14: Scallops En Vermouth
March 21: Mexican Buffet
March 28: Crab Au Gratin
Dining Room Hours of Operation The HYC Dining Room Hours of Operation are as follows:
Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch
Wednesday and Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. for dinner
Friday from 6 to 10 p.m. for dinner and Friday night buffet
Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Sunday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Calendar of Events
save the date to visit...
“A PLACE OF BEAUTY, PEACE AND ENLIGHTENMENT”
In Orange Texas
Day Trip: April 12 with the
HYC Ladies Association
HOUSTON YACHT CLUB
3620 Miramar Drive
Shoreacres, Texas 77571
make reservations today for the
EASTER SUNDAY BUFFET
March 31 from 11 AM to 2 PM
Grab your basket after
lunch and join us for the Easter Egg Hunt which
begins at 2 PM.
Please call the HYC Office at 281.471.1255 for reservations.