June/July 1996

The president outlines a strategic plan for Thistle class growth, identifying three major areas: youth recruitment, retention within class ranks, and attracting outsiders. He discusses the current state of recruitment and proposes specific action items to improve participation and engagement.

A Growth and Promotion report discussing the Thistle class as a marketing project. The author presents ideas for growth including external publicity, electronic communications, fleet captains' newsletters, class foundations, and junior sailing coordinators. He emphasizes that growth requires sustained effort and resource allocation.

Chief Measurer announces that specific measurement items will be checked at the Nationals in Fort Walton Beach, including boat weight, corrector weights, sails, rudder, safety equipment, and trailer specifications.

Announcement of new Thistle Class members across various regions including Central Atlantic, Carolinas, Florida, Lake Erie East, Long Island Sound, Mid-America, Lake Michigan, and others.

Editor's column discussing the role of the internet and electronic communication in the Thistle Class, notes about growth and promotion themes recurring in the issue, requests for photos and technical information from readers.

Profile of Melissa (Missy) Schwen, daughter of Tom and Emily Schwen of Bloomington, Indiana, who will represent the United States in Women's Pairs Rowing at the Olympics. She trained in Australia and is competing internationally in rowing.

Collection of three letters from readers: one about Thistle boat names and their heritage, one about a wedding that included Thistle families, and one praising the layout of the April/May issue.

Photo captions from the Midwinters regatta showing scenes of sailors, boats, and social activities at the event.

Directory of Thistle Class district governors and their contact information organized by region.

Profile of George Devlin, an early Thistle sailor who purchased boat 108 in 1947 and has remained active with the class for decades. He was Chief Measurer and has supported the class through mentoring younger sailors and maintaining original Thistle heritage.

Two-part article exploring team racing and match racing as exciting alternatives to traditional fleet racing. The author explains the tactics, rules, and benefits of these formats for increasing participation and enjoyment in Thistle racing.

Photo feature introducing five young sailors who represent the future of the Thistle Class: Robyn Gillum, Nathan Klotz, Stew Draheim, Anne Makielski, and Kyle Richards.

Extended discussion about whether the Thistle Class Association should permit construction of new wooden boats. Multiple perspectives are presented from class members debating the merits, costs, and implications of allowing new wooden Thistle construction.

Technical article discussing recent modifications to the mainsail reefing system, including changes to the boom end fitting, mast slug position, and experiences from the Midwinters East regatta.

Report on the Arizona Thistle Invitational regatta held on April 13-14, 1996 at Lake Pleasant, Arizona. Twelve teams competed in varied and challenging conditions, with Fred Nagel taking the win.

Report on the Orange Peel Regatta held in Jacksonville, Florida in March 1996. The regatta featured four races at the Florida Yacht Club with varied conditions.

Report on the Southeastern Interdistricts Championship held in Columbia, South Carolina in April 1996. Bob McCormack's strategic sailing and strong performance secured his win in challenging conditions.

Report on the April Fools Regatta held at the Greater Richmond Sailing Association in Richmond, Virginia on April 14, 1996. The regatta provided good sailing conditions and a celebratory atmosphere.

Classified advertisements for Thistle boats, sails, covers, hardware, and other sailing equipment and services.