|
July 1, 2008 |
|
Sure can tell summer has arrived. Cher goes to Publix and there’s no one in line in front of her. The roads and the restaurants are empty. Go out on the harbor during the week and you might have it all to yourself. Sounds lonely but actually it’s pretty nice. It seems like about half of our Club are full timers and because of that, we maintain a full off-season schedule.
We will continue to have our monthly meetings on the third Wednesdays at Sam Seltzers and there are several cruises planned for the rest of the season. Our next get together is on the 4th in Charlotte Harbor for fireworks. That was a nice evening last year and I hope to see you there.
We just returned from a terrific weekend at Tween Waters. You don’t have to hang out at a marina for too long until the conversation that you’re having with someone turns to the price of gas and the high cost of cruising. There is a great article in this month’s Motor Boating magazine entitled “Creative Cruising”. It discusses ways to save money while using your boat. One of the people that they interviewed is the commodore of the Northwest Grady Club located in Seattle. Their club is planning a 711 mile trip to Alaska. The commodore talks about boat pooling, which is a topic that we have talked a great deal about in our club. Here is his comment, “the price at the pump may be $5, but it’s only $2.50 for me and my friend”. Would you use your boat more if the price suddenly went down to $2.50 a gallon? Bet you would.
In last month’s newsletter, I discussed boat pooling and how it turns into such a great social event but as it stated in the magazine article, it also gets the price of a gallon down to $2.50 (or $1.67 if you have 3 couples on board). Who wouldn’t take their boat out if you could get gas for $1.67? Well, you can. As I suggested, let Steve and Diann know if you are interested in a cruise and if you want to drive your boat or be a passenger. We will pair you up. It’s that simple. That’s a better “gas-pain easing” plan than any politician is promising! Many of us have been “pooling” for some time and while we don’t split the gas, we split the trips so it all works out the same.
Be sure to regularly check out our photo web site Flickr: tarpon_coast's We constantly update it with new and exciting (and sometimes funny and embarrassing) photos. The collection from Bob Mayes and John and Shiree Wolfinger’s factory tour are there and they really show what a great time they had when the folks at Grady rolled out the red carpet. Also, be sure to check out the latest Anchorline for a good looking group shot of our Club cruise to South Seas Plantation.
Finally, on a sad note, Michelle Riordan’s father passed away on June 19th. Our condolences and prayers go to Michelle and her family. |
|
Editor: Fred Buchas |
|
“Please RSVP to me by Monday, July 14th if you plan on attending ” |
|
Some Tidbits From Your Fleet Captain(s) Steve & Diann Saunders |
|
Steve & Diann Saunders FLEET CAPTAINS |
|
Hi Everyone,
Just a few short lines regarding our past trips last month to Rum Runners in Fort Myers and ‘Tween Waters in Captiva. For those of you that didn’t join us….
Lunch at Rum Runners was a lot of fun. We all ended up doing the trip via car. So, once we all got there, we parked the cars at the restaurant, checked out the stores and did a little shopping where we purchased fresh veggies and bakery items in the square, then walked to the restaurant for lunch. We were seated immediately. The food was delicious and ample portions were served which we all enjoyed. We all decided, perhaps next time, it would be a fun place to boat to, as there was plenty of dock space and seating either outside or inside (we opted for the inside where it was cool). And, of course, while in Fort Myers, where else do we all like to shop? A pit stop for one family was made at Bass Pro/Outdoor World for some fishing supplies and gear to add to our boat, as there is always room for something else?!?!?!
Our weekend at ‘Tween Waters was a grand one. We met our new members – Vicki Pettigrew and Mike Varga who joined us for the weekend. We started Friday evening with dinner dockside with plenty of food to choose from and a special cooler jug of homemade Sangria from Judy and Fred Buchas, which was just delicious. (Those present have requested the recipe to be put on our website…it was like a Lays Potato Chip…you couldn’t just have one!!) On Saturday, we all met at the beach and then went onto the pool where drinks were served poolside and sun was plentiful. We all decided to enjoy the pool and why rush…we were on vacation! So, dinner reservations at The Bubble Room were cancelled and we ate on the premises of the resort at The Crow’s Nest, which was delicious and enjoyed by all. Then up to the Saunders suite we went (including the homemade Sangria) to play cards and have dessert. Sunday, with rain in the forecast, we all decided to take a dip in the pool and motor home. So…ended another enjoyable weekend away in paradise….and only a few miles from home.
For the month of July, we have planned on spending the 4th of July evening in Charlotte Harbor for a boat raft up to view the spectacular fireworks and on the 27th lunch at Barnacle Phils. Hope to see you there…..
Your Fleet Captains, Steve & Diann |
|
“4th of July evening in Charlotte Harbor for a boat raft up to view the spectacular fireworks ” |
A Report From Treasurer/Web MasterDan Eisenberg |
|
Dan Eisenberg TREASURER/WEB MASTER |
|
As of today we have a total of 51 boats in the roster. WEB Site:
LINKS TAB:
Below those are links to lessons learned and safety information. Below those is a table with links to external sites on a number of topics including weather, fishing, safety, other boat clubs, etc. One recent addition is the Yamaha bulletin on Ethanol use. The LINKS page is at http://tarponcoastgwbc.com/links/links.html
NEWSLETTERS TAB:
Dan |
|
“As of today we have a total of 51 boats in the roster.” |
|
“Check out the club photo gallery on Flicker”. |
The Safety SceneSafety Officer/Newsletter Editor-Fred Buchas |
|
Fred Buchas SAFETY OFFICER |
|
Improper anchoring amongst hundreds of boats all in close proximity has all the makings of a accident waiting to happen. |
Other Items & Member News |
|
A Word From The Commodore-Dan Clark |
|
Upcoming Events – Mark Your Calendar: July 16, 7:00pm
Monthly Dinner meeting – The July monthly dinner meeting will be held at the Sam Seltzer’s Steakhouse in Port Charlotte. Don’t forget that we will have a 50/50 raffle with half going to the Club and the rest going to the lucky winner.
Remember, it is important to check your e-mail and our Website on a regular basis so that you know what is going on with the Club.
Please let me know if you are bringing guests. |
News From The Secretary-John Semple |
|
Dan Clark COMMODORE |
|
SMOOTH ANCHORING
Too many inexperienced boaters think that anchoring is a “no brainer”. They simply drop it, feel it catch, tie it off and assume they’re secure.
No doubt some of us will be venturing out on July 4th to view fireworks. Improper anchoring amongst hundreds of boats all in close proximity has all the makings of a accident waiting to happen.
We can’t control what the other guy does but we can start by making sure our boat is secure.
STEPS TO SMOOTH ANCHORING · Select an area that offers maximum shelter from wind, current, boat traffic etc. · Pick a spot with swinging room in all directions. Should the wind change, your boat will swing bow to the wind or current, whichever is stronger. · Determine depth and bottom conditions and calculate the amount of rode you will put out. · If other boats are anchored in the area you select, ask the boat adjacent to the spot you select what scope they have out so that you can anchor in such a manner that you will not bump into the neighboring vessel. · Anchor with the same method used by nearby boats. If they are anchored bow and stern, you should too. If they are anchored with a single anchor from the bow, do not anchor bow and stern. Never anchor from the stern alone, this could cause the boat to swamp or capsize. · Rig the anchor and rode. Check shackles to make sure they are secured with wire tied to prevent the screw shaft from opening. · Lay out the amount of rode you will need on deck in such a manner it will follow the anchor into the water smoothly without tangling. · Cleat off the anchor line at the point you want it to stop. (Don’t forget or you’ll be diving for your anchor.) · With the bow to the wind or current in the spot you have selected, stop the boat and slowly start to motor back. Lower the anchor until it lies on the bottom then slowly let out the rode as the boat drifts back. Backing down slowly will assure that the chain will not foul the anchor and prevent it from digging into the bottom. · When all the anchor line has been let out, back down on the anchor with engine in idle reverse to help set the anchor. (Be careful not to get the anchor line caught in your prop) · While reversing on a set anchor, keep a hand on the anchor line, a dragging anchor will telegraph itself as it bumps along the bottom. An anchor that is set will not shake the line. · When the anchor is firmly set look around for reference points in relation to the boat. You can sight over your compass to get the bearing of two different fixed points (house, rock, tower, etc. ) Over the next hour or so, make sure those reference points are in the same place. If not you’re probably dragging anchor. · Begin anchor watch. Everyone should check occasionally to make sure you’re not drifting.
|
|
John Semple SECRETARY |
|
Copyright © 2008 Tarpon Coast Grady-White Boat Club All rights reserved |
Our Vice Commodore-Burt Wahlburg |
|
Ahoy!
I have been doing a little reading since our last publication, particularly the monthly Boating Magazines, and have a few suggestions I thought may be of interest to our fellow members:
Proper Use of Trim Tabs: · Prior to going up on plane, with the boat dead in the water or at a slow moving speed, place the trim tabs in the up position. At this point the tabs are up against the boats hull and not in use. As the boat begins to come up on plane adjust the tabs by pressing the bow down position. By doing this the boat will plane off sooner thereby reducing fuel consumption. · When you do adjust the tabs make the adjustments in small increments, thereby reducing the sudden shifts while increasing the safety factor to you and your passengers. · In head seas, like our last trip to the Keys, you may wish to trim the bow down. This will allow the boat to cut thru the seas better and provide a smoother ride with less pounding. Be aware, however, as you will surely notice a drop in your fuel efficiency, but well worth it for keeping the First Mate happy. · When running down sea keep the tabs tucked up tight to the hull allowing the boat to track easier. Battery Safety: · At least once a month visually inspect your batteries. · Make sure that all batteries are properly secured. The “Code of Professional Regulations” stipulates that a battery should not be able to move more than 1”. Should a battery shift while under way it could possibly break the leads causing a spark or explosion. · Make sure your batteries are mounted in such a way to limit the potential interaction with other metallic surfaces. · Make sure all electrical systems are properly grounded. · Finally check the water level on a monthly basis, thereby helping to extend the useful life of your batteries (something which I have failed to due on a regular basis). And finally while out boating with a friend on his new 46’ center console I picked up a quick and easy way to rinse down your boat after a short run. The secret was to use “Salt Away” with the dispenser canister provided. First, both engine jackets were flushed. Then, with the remaining liquid, he wet the boat and applied the “Salt Away” to all surfaces, neutralizing the salt. A quick rinse and your ready for another day on the water without all the hard work required for a full wash down. Wishing all our fellow club members a safe and enjoyable 4th. |
|
Burt Wahlburg VICE COMMODORE |
|
I continue to look for member contributions. It could be almost anything that would be of interest to the membership. It could include your personal fishing or cruising stories or just information about hot fishing spots, dining or cruising destinations etc.
Fred Buchas fbuchas1@comcast.net |
|
HOME | CALENDAR | TRIP PLANS | MEMBERS | LINKS | PAST NEWSLETTERS |
|
Website Links: Use Your Browser Back Button To Return Here |
|
“When you do adjust the tabs make the adjustments in small increments, thereby reducing the sudden shifts “ |
|
“We started Friday evening with dinner dockside with plenty of food to choose from ” |
|
June 4th Grady Factory Tour |
|
John, Lisa, Sheree, Alan and Bob outside the Grady factory in Greenville, NC |
|
See more factory tour photos at this Flicker link.
|
|
“Our next get together is on the 4th in Charlotte Harbor for fireworks. “ |
|
“Never anchor from the stern alone, this could cause the boat to swamp or capsize.“ |
|
Grady Factory tour June 4th! |
|
John and Sheree Wolfinger, Bob Mayes and friend Alan toured the Grady factory on June 4th. They were greeted by Lisa and Burt and got a chance to see Gradys being born. |
|
John checking out our club burgee. |
|
CLICK PICTURE ABOVE TO VIEW ANIMATION.
Retrieve the anchor by pulling or powering forward slowly until the anchor rode hangs vertically at the bow. Cleat the line as the boat moves slowly past the vertical. This will use the weight of the boat to free the anchor and protect you from being dragged over the bow. Once free, raise the anchor to the waterline. Clean if necessary and let the rode dry before stowing away. |
|
Stay safe,
Fred
Above steps and graphics from www.boatingbasicsonline.com |