April-May, 1979

President Keinath congratulates winners of the Mid-Winters East and West regattas, and discusses the value of the 20% system for resolving protests. He encourages participation in Mid-Winters racing and notes the success of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club event.

A letter to the editor praising Henry Clements' article on photography and offering tips on taking sailing photos, including camera equipment choices and techniques for capturing good photos at regattas.

A comprehensive list of newly inducted members of the Thistle Class Association, organized by geographic region from Central Atlantic to Southern California.

A humorous recipe for happiness as experienced by Thistle sailors, combining the ideal sailing location, venue, and community in a tongue-in-cheek format.

Complete information for the 1979 Thistle National Championship at Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts, including lodging facilities, meal plans, transportation, and detailed schedule of events from August 18-24, 1979.

A detailed account of the Mid-Winters West regatta held in January at Mission Bay Yacht Club, describing racing conditions and winners in both championship and commodore divisions.

An in-depth article by a newcomer to the Thistle Class discussing what he has learned about sailing Thistles, covering boat setup, rigging techniques, and practical racing tips gained from experience and observation.

A comprehensive calendar of Thistle Class racing events and regattas scheduled throughout 1979, organized by month from March through October.

Details of amendment proposals to be voted on at the Annual Meeting in Marion, Massachusetts in August 1979, including amendments for Junior Membership, Bow-Eye specifications, Third Vice President position, Twinlines, and Growth & Development committee.

Continuation of amendment proposals, including discussion of fleet comments and advertising notice for Thomas Sailmakers.

News about growth initiatives including a press release about the Seattle Sailing Foundation's Thistle acquisition, information about a new fleet in Delaware, and advertising for regatta hosting opportunities.

Continuation of the President's message discussing cash flow issues and encouraging member participation and support for the Class.

Detailed constitutional and specification revisions approved for the Thistle Class, including General Notes about specifications, Chief Measurer's Rulings, and various adjustments to boat specifications.

Report on the Sturgeon Bay regatta where Bruce Goldsmith narrowly defeated Andy Barnes with top competition, including race results and information about the Fourth Annual event.

Race report from the Tangerine Bowl regatta featuring Evans' strong performance in heavy wind conditions, with detailed race results and commentary on sailing tactics.

Report on the Goetz Regatta at Lake Hopatcong where Ed Barbehenn won, demonstrating his sailing skill in moving Thistles quickly over water with detailed race results.

Race report from Mission Bay where Kempff won three consecutive races and maintained first place despite competition, with detailed sailing conditions and race results.

Report on the East Coast Fall Series with Liggett defeating defending champion Andy Klein in competitive racing, featuring race statistics and sailor quotes.

Report on the Spring Fling regatta where Alan Veenstra demonstrated strong sailing in brisk wind conditions, with detailed race results and details about the event.

Comprehensive classified advertising section featuring boats for sale, used Thistle equipment listings, boat parts and fittings, sailmakers, insurance services, and various marine products and services.

Advertisement announcing Van Zandt Sails' success at the 1979 Mid-Winters, with congratulations to the Gilliland and Duckworth families and a pitch for customers to use Van Zandt sails.