October/November 1988

Robinson reflects on the summer as a busy time for Thistle sailing, particularly noting the ongoing debate about sandwich core construction for new hulls. She thanks the various committees and volunteers for their efforts and shares her vision for growing the class and fleet participation.

Finefrock reports on the class's significant reduction in boats lost and growth momentum, highlighting the success of publicity efforts at Nationals and local media coverage. He discusses opportunities for continued promotion and geographic expansion.

Official minutes from the Annual Meeting held August 8, 1988 at Flathead Lake Yacht Club, covering the Governing Board Report, various officer announcements, and committee appointments.

Kelley expresses concern about the future of the Thistle Class, discussing R&D status, crew comfort, cost of construction versus other classes, and competition from newer designs. He advocates for growth strategies and dual-purpose sailing.

Collection of three letters to the editor responding to various Bagpipe content, including a thank-you for the Commodore's patch, comments on the Mid-Winters experience, and suggestions about bow tank inspection procedures.

Comprehensive report of the 1988 Thistle National Championship hosted at North Flathead Yacht Club in Somers, Montana. Details the championship and president's division races with detailed wind conditions, tactical observations, and finishing positions across multiple days of racing.

Advertisement and announcement for the 1989 Midwinters West regatta to be held January 19-22 in San Diego, hosted by the San Diego Area Thistle Fleet and Mission Bay Yacht Club.

Report on the social activities and events at the 1988 Nationals at Flathead Lake, including camping, dining, entertainment, and the various parties and activities that made the regatta memorable beyond racing.

Report on the entertainment performances at Talent Night during the 1988 Nationals, featuring original and humorous songs, including the standout "Ode to Honey (Abramson)" sung to the tune of "Sunny."

Educational column about yacht racing rule 39 (Same Tack - Sailing Below a Proper Course After Starting), explaining the rule's intent, common violations, and how to apply it fairly in racing situations.

Report on the Seattle Fleet #61 Annual Regatta held June 11-12, 1988 at Bellingham Bay with 25 Thistles, describing excellent weather conditions, close racing, and notable performances by several skippers.

Report on the 1988 Great Lakes Championship held at Rochester Canoe Club, with 55 boats from across the region competing. Details race conditions, notable performances, and the championship's significance within the Great Lakes Fleet.

Comprehensive listing of new members added to the Thistle Class Association, organized by region and fleet. Includes new members from Central Atlantic, Delta, Lake Erie West, Lake Michigan, Michiana, New England, Niagara Frontier, Northern California, Pacific Northwest, South Atlantic, and Southern California.

Report on the Lake Michigan District Championship held at Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, where Jerry Ruffolo successfully defended his title from 1987, with details of challenging weather conditions and the winning performance.

Report on the 1988 New Jersey Districts Thistle Fleet #176 regatta held on Lake Nockamixton, featuring challenging weather conditions, multiple race cancellations, and detailed race-by-race accounts of competition.

Detailed report on the Long Island Sound Districts regatta held at Cedar Point Yacht Club June 25-26, 1988, with analysis of each race's conditions, tactical developments, and notable performances by competitors.

Collection of classified advertisements for boats for sale, equipment, services, and merchandise related to Thistle sailing, including new and used sailboats, parts, covers, and various services offered to the Thistle community.