November 1955

Editor Arthur Arms discusses the first attempt to publish an expanded issue of the Bagpipe and reflects on some challenges of bringing 850 copies from New Jersey to Georgia. He previews coming columns and solicits members to contribute articles on sailing topics.

Ron Small reports on the Long Island Sound Thistle Championships held September 24-25, which provided some of the worst and best sailing conditions. Despite postponed races due to weather, John Hartung of New Suffolk won the District title sailing his boat "Red Doll", with strong competition from other skippers throughout the series.

George Devlin, Chief Measurer of the Thistle Class, reports on measurement results from the Gross Isle Yacht Club and Detroit River Fleet races, highlighting unusual situations that arose during the season and providing final standings from multiple racing events.

Collection of boat and equipment listings for sale, including several Thistle sailboats and associated gear offered by private sellers throughout the issue.

Ron Small reports on the Huntington Thistle Fleet's season, noting it was their best sailing season yet with consistently close competition among many skippers. He describes the racing dynamics and final season standings, with Lentini's "Buccaneer II" winning overall honors.

Fred Blatt reports on Fleet #22's activities in the Boston Harbor area, noting recent victories at regattas and the district's racing schedule. He provides updates on fleet officers and recent accomplishments including races at Fenwick and the Quincey Bay Race Week.

Ron Small reports on the M.I.T. Manhasset Bay Fall Race Series which involved over 20 classes and 185 boats competing over the course. Dennis Rosey demonstrated exceptional performance and rookie John Hartung's race strategy proved effective despite close competition throughout the series.

Annual financial report of the Thistle Class Association for the period October 28, 1954 to October 28, 1955, showing income, expenses, and account balances for various funds including regular operations, boat fund, and reserves.

President Jack O'Shea announces the establishment of an Executive Committee and committee structure for conducting business of the association, with nominations and positions distributed across regional leadership.

Report on the Second Annual Invitational regatta held at Louisville Sailing Club in September with ten boats from multiple states competing. The report notes wind conditions, course management, and competitive results with Bob Jamison and Bob Vance taking top honors.

Short item noting that Bill Nexen and Neil Patzer sailed their Thistle to victory in the Fifth Harvest Moon Regatta at Atwood Lake Yacht Club, adding another trophy to their impressive collection earned this season.

Dick Parker reports on the Red Dragon Canoe Club's annual Labor Day Regatta sponsored by Fleet #54 in Edgewater Park, N.J., which featured nine Thistles sailing in three races. Close competition and interesting wind conditions provided exciting racing despite some challenging circumstances.

Brief news item announcing that the Annual Mid-Winter Championship Regatta will be held at St. Petersburg, Florida in January with dates January 21-22 and details to follow in a later issue.

Column featuring Secretary-Treasurer "Tut" Tuthill introducing himself and discussing the role of District Secretaries in communication and record-keeping within the Thistle Class Association.