October/November 1996

President Chris Klotz reflects on the success of the 1996 Fort Walton Beach Nationals and credits the dedicated work of volunteers and the southern fleets for making the event possible. He encourages continued volunteer participation and emphasis on fleet growth and member engagement.

Allan Gowans, Third Vice President of Growth and Promotion, celebrates Fleet 148's significant growth achievements in 1996, which won the Growth and Promotion award. He emphasizes that while the fleet has grown substantially, continued effort is needed to reach more boats and encourage members to bring in new participants.

Editor Patty Lawrence thanks contributors for this comprehensive issue covering the Nationals and other important Thistle news. She emphasizes the need for reader contributions including articles, photos, cover shots, and profiles for future issues.

Welcome for new Thistle Class members from Delaware, Pacific Northwest, South Atlantic, New England, and Michiana regions, introducing them to the Class and providing membership information.

Recognition of Sustaining, Contributing, and Thank You members who have supported the Thistle Class Association in 1996.

Photo article featuring pictures from the 1996 Nationals, showing race committee members and spectators at Fort Walton Beach social events.

Andy Russell pays tribute to Arthur E. Menke, who passed away on August 4, 1996, during the Nationals. Menke was a dedicated Thistle sailor and class leader who contributed significantly to small boat sailing and youth development in sailing.

Greg Fisher provides detailed technical guidance on how to properly store and maintain Thistle sails during winter storage, covering inspection and care of the mainsail, jib, and spinnaker.

Donald Graul, who works for Musto in South Carolina, provides technical advice on caring for foul weather gear during winter storage, emphasizing proper cleaning, drying, and storage techniques.

Dennis McCartney advises on proper tank maintenance for Thistle sailboats during winter storage, covering foam removal inspection, water management, and prevention of structural damage.

Patty Lawrence offers recommendations for fleet maintenance and activities during winter months, focusing on planning and organizing to support the Thistle Class during the cold season.

Kevin Doherty shares practical advice on winterizing and storing a Thistle sailboat, emphasizing that proper storage now will make spring launching much easier and more efficient.

Patty Lawrence provides quick maintenance tips for blocks and block bearings, covering cleaning and care recommendations from Dan Rondeau at Harken for winterization.

Official minutes from the August 4, 1996 Governing Board meeting covering financial reports, officer elections, internet presence, Sears Cup participation, and the new Toucan Duet event.

Official minutes from the August 6, 1996 Annual Meeting of the Thistle Class Association held at the Fort Walton Yacht Club, covering financial reports, trophy accounts, officer introductions, and event planning.

Lori Zwar explores the question of why there are so few women skippers in the Thistle Class, reflecting on barriers to women's participation in competitive sailing and encouraging more female involvement.

Conclusion of an internet discussion about whether Thistle should permit new wooden boat construction, with contributions from Bill Connerly, Tom Gregory, and Rob Hoffer presenting different perspectives on the proposal.

Jerry Pignolet reports on the 1996 National Championship races at Fort Walton Beach, describing the challenging conditions and the champion performance of Dave Dellenbaugh, who won a competitive regatta with strong finishes.

Championship division results from 1996 Nationals, showing placement of all competing skippers across seven races.

Jennifer Tumlin reports on the 1996 Women's Nationals held at the Nationals regatta, covering three races with the top finishers and highlighting the need to promote women's participation in competitive Thistle sailing.

Jack Finefrock presents information about Tom Hubbell receiving the valued Minton Award for outstanding service to the Thistle Class. Hubbell's extensive involvement in the Class leadership and activities are recognized.

Bob McCormack reports on the President's Division races from the 1996 Nationals with competitive racing and various race outcomes.

Extensive photo gallery of winners and place finishers from 1996 Nationals in various divisions and categories, organized from first through tenth place.

Jan MacLean describes the shore-side activities and hospitality at the 1996 Nationals at Fort Walton Beach, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and entertainment options for participants and families.

Ron Schauble describes his experience attending the 1996 Nationals at Fort Walton Beach by boat, traveling with Roy Waldrup in Thistle 3729, and the interesting journey from Kansas.

Nancy Molitor humorously reports on the Atlanta Yacht Club's Dixie Regatta, held over the Memorial Day weekend, where the ACOG helped produce the event and the Thistles participated in lively competition.

Stu Martell reports on the Lake Michigan District Championship Regatta in Madison, Wisconsin, held in July 1996, with competitive racing across multiple boats.

Dane Winchester covers the Portland Fleet Traveling Regatta at Vale Lake in Vancouver, Washington, where Ken Tucker's consistent performance earned first place.

Joe Epstein reports on the SuperSail XXIV regatta at Lake Michigan, describing the challenging conditions and competitive racing on the Big Pond.

Ed Barbehenn reports on the Atlantic Coast Championship regatta held at Tred Avon Yacht Club in July 1996, noting hurricane impacts but successful completion of the races.

Tom Bauman reports on the 1996 Delta District Championship at the Austin Yacht Club, where David Smedley held off competitors to capture the district title.

Classified advertisements and marketplace listings for Thistle boats, equipment, and services including boat sales, sails, covers, and miscellaneous Thistle-related items.