Date: 12/21/2006
Name: Mike "you can blame me"' Robinson
email: pndar@cs.com
subject:Black Eyes and a White Christmas
Hello all (one last time for 2006)I believe that good honest discourse, discussion, and debate is actually a good thing for our class and our boats (within reason)...to me, it means that people care about the boat and the class enough to voice an opinion, and generally, listen to what others have to offer. If that means we have a black eye, well, give me a shiner any time!
And to those who doubted a value in 'the class' - it does add immensely to the value I have gotten from sailing...in addition to increasing the value of our boats. One need simply look at the comparable boats that are 'orphans' in various areas of the country (and granted, SJ 21's are sonmewhat orphans in some areas) to see what 'no class' will do to boat valuse.
Far beyond this, however, is the value I have personally received, being able to sail, and race with a group of people who have truly become 'family'. Yes, we bumped boats on occasion, and we don't always see 'eye to eye' on rules changes, but to me it comes down to this - I was always happy to attend events, and particularly so with my son and daughter (even when they were VERY young), where, no matter the race results, we could all sit and have a beer and meal together and really enjoy the fellowship.
As Doug and Joe have said - I believe I have had great experiences with my kids, and set a good example for my kids , by attending San Juan 21 regattas and cruises. I ma far risher for it - and I hope you haven't minded us too much!
So to all of you...I wish you Black Eyes and a Merry/White Christmas! And if you are near Charlotte, NC, or New Bern, NC - come on out and sail on New Years's Day - both areas will host San Juan fleets.
Mike R
#1694 Ragtop
Charlotte, NC
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