Cover Photos & Reader Photography

Miscellaneous news briefs about Thistle owners and boats, including boat registrations, sail makers, batten suppliers, boat building activities, and an upcoming Literary Contest for the newsletter.

A brief note indicating this is the seventh entry in a contest run by the National Thistle Association, with one more month remaining for story submissions.

Brief concluding note reminding readers to continue sending in news and updates about Thistle activities. Editor expresses optimism about receiving good news from various regions.

A collection of short items about Thistle activities at various clubs, including new boat additions, humorous anecdotes, and equipment notes from Edgewater, Leatherips, Onondaga Lake, Cleveland, and Sandusky.

A correction to a September report regarding boat ownership. A.R. Waugaman was incorrectly listed as skipper of Jobima No. 101; the credit for sailing victories should go to his sons Bill and John.

A humorous account by George Bridgeman of the dean of the Canandaigua Fleet, recounting an unexplained incident during a race on Canandaigua Lake where his boat experienced unusual wind conditions and behavior.

Request from the Thistle Class Association for pictures of Thistles - both stills and movies - to help develop documentation for the class and support various fleet and club interests.

Collection of brief news items about Thistle developments in various regions: a Thistle kit delivered to Denmark for establishing a fleet in Brazil; Thistle Directory mailing; Bob Clabault joining Tufts College racing team; Willard D. Carter graduating from a 63-foot auxiliary schooner to Thistle; and Frank Janssen becoming Commodore of O.Y.A.

Editorial plea for members to contribute news about their activities. The editor notes there are many busy members painting and varnishing boats, but asks them to share what is happening in their fleets.

Two interesting notes: Frank Janssen's boat #188 BETTY J TOO will fly the Commodore flag for the Ohio Inland Yachting Association regatta in June, and Dick Brainard shares a practical technique for threading spinnaker halyards using a weighted ball.

Humorously describing Tom and Jane Thurlow's mysterious success at the Onondaga Regatta as possible 'JATO' (jet assist take-off) technology. The Thurlows consistently appear at the start line and then are found ashore waiting at the finish. Also mentions Al Cummins and Dex Edgarton's close calls.

Roger W. Brett's LADY ANNE #191 has arrived in Kansas City, Missouri after an extended journey from Bridgeport, Connecticut. The boat is being prepared for racing on a local L-shaped lake among C class scows and snipes.

Editor comments on Sody's table of marine etchings, describing them as outstanding works suitable for club decorations or gifts. A new smaller THISTLE etching priced at $5.00 is coming soon, which Sody has generously offered to provide for publication in the Bagpipe.

George Bridgman reports on a feature article by Cliff Carpenter published in the February Bagpipe about yachting, noting the piece caused amusement at the Red Jacket Yacht Club when a character in the story became dramatically overcome.

Announcement of a new etching of a Thistle completed by an artist, available as a limited edition with details on how to order.

An appeal for more photographs of Thistles and their sailors, emphasizing the value of good photos for marketing the class. The editor requests specific types of action shots that show the boats in good conditions.

A humorous short piece about a sailor's comical encounter and reflections on sailing as a sport, written in a folksy narrative style.

A nostalgic photo feature showing an old photograph of Thistlers after a grueling harbor race, wet plate photography captured the group's defiant spirit despite dirty conditions and technical challenges from the era.

Brief note about Jack Howard and Ken Hayter resolving a naming dispute over their boat No. 687 by naming it RIFT.

Ray Feibusch of Miramar Yacht Club offers a satirical view of what constitutes a yacht club, humorously describing the members, facilities, officers, and atmosphere of a typical club with wry observations about boat ownership and club culture.

Reports from the Seattle Thistle fleet including news of a postcard from a member receiving the June Bagpipe, mentions of new boat construction activity, and updates on Thistle 720 completion and racing plans.

The editor extends seasonal holiday wishes to all Thistlers across the country, hoping for good winds and safe sailing in the coming year.

A humorous first-person account of the author's experience as a waterfront reporter covering the Mid-Winter Championship races. The piece describes the confusion, mishaps, and coloring commentary of racing a Thistle alongside professional observation duties.

A photo essay capturing the post-race celebration and social gathering of Thistle sailors and their guests after the day's events at the Mid-Winter Championships.

An appeal for assistance from Ray Feilbush, Chairman of the TCA National Publicity Committee, seeking a photogenic blonde woman to match in a luffing match for a publicity photo opportunity, demonstrating Thistle sailing appeal.

Information about the artwork "Breezing Up" by the artist Yngve Ed. Sorderberg and prints available at a discount from the original Thistle handbook.

Anecdotal story about Ron Small's discovery of the H.M.S. London, a British ship that played an important role in the Revolutionary War. The model was on display and selected for a drawing, with Small winning the opportunity to have it shipped to New York.

The Louisville fleet and Sailing Club were featured in August's Louisville Courier Journal Magazine with a full-color cover story on Jack Beachel's boat. The article received positive regional coverage.

Photograph showing a Thistle under a spinnaker during the Raritan races, capturing one of the finest shots made of a Thistle under that sail configuration.

Brief editorial notes including sightings of Thistles in Indianapolis, information about new Thistle dealers in Cincinnati, and announcements about upcoming issue content.

Details of the Thistle Mid-Winter dinner and party scheduled for January 18, 1957 at the New York Athletic Club in New York City, with information on costs and program highlights.

Report on Thistles at the New York Boat Show, noting strong display with new colors and successful promotion of the class to potential sailors.

A compilation of brief editorial notes discussing various Thistle class news items, including club fire, famous regattas, and equipment stories from various regions.

Humorous reprinted article from February 1953 describing with satirical detail what constitutes a yacht club and the various equipment, duties, and ceremonies involved in club operations.

Reprinted from Pittsburgh Press, this article by Don Dillman explores the appeal of sailboating as a family sport. He discusses how sailboating tests physical stamina while offering leisurely pastimes for families. The article features examples from various sailors including a reference to John Proctor of Monroeville who exemplifies the dedicated sailboater.

Bob Young's painting of a sailing Thistle won first place in an art contest, with the artwork featuring artistic merit though not conforming to strict cover specifications.

Ham deFontaine, art director of Yachting magazine, selected Bob Young's painting for first place from eight artists, with Peter Flood taking second, Bob Kronenberg third, and Bob Cassidy fourth, with entries also submitted by Richard Chego, Sue Dourner, Art Ware, and Jeannie Vaughn.

A 1st Prize art contest featured paintings by eight artists. The art director at Yachting selected Bob Young's painting as the winner. Second place went to Peter Flood while Bob Kronenberg was awarded third place and Bob Cassidy fourth.

Announcement for Yachting magazine art contest seeking paintings for a possible front cover. Specifies submission guidelines for size, deadline, and procedures for entry.

The magazine is seeking paintings for consideration by Yachting Magazine as possible cover art. The submission guidelines outline specific dimensions, delivery instructions, and judging criteria.

Announcement of the engagement of Miss Ellen Schroth to Bob Shaw, featuring two Thistle boats. The couple plans an unusual wedding attire of formal cross cut dacron with matching spinnakers.

Old Smuggler DCCVXVII of Sayville, Long Island announces the engagement of crew member Ellen Schmit to Rob Shaw. The article notes that Thistles revealed during Easter holidays that the wedding party will be attired in formal cross cut dacron with matching spinnakers.

Request for clear glossy photographs of Thistles in action to establish a publicity file for the class. Photos should be sent to Phil Himsworth in Worthington, Ohio.

Request for clear glossy pictures of Thistles in action. Photos should be 8x10 black and white prints sent to the Bagpipe office for establishing a publicity file.

Metal thistle flower buttons are available from La Mode Buttons in department stores, priced at 29 cents for two large buttons or 49 cents for four small ones in silver and gold. Buttons can be used as regatta souvenirs or sewn onto blazers and other clothing.

Women in the Thistle circle might be interested to know that metal buttons with the thistle flower are available in many department stores. The notice mentions two large ones priced at 29 cents and one small at 49 cents, and references Hal Pithado who brought them to the Bagpipe's attention.

Brief notice that the May 23 issue of LOOK Magazine on page 9 carries a 14-page story on sailboating that includes a portion dealing with the Thistle. Readers are urged to get a copy.

Editor's request for cruising stories from readers describing their sailing experiences, with preference for stories that include photographs or illustrations.

Article describing a sailing scene on Kennebago Mountain where a regatta is held in the buck-ground. Glen Clark is pictured with his crew getting ready for an upwind race, with no waves in this warm landlocked chunk of paradise.

Editor's request for photos of Thistles in action at regattas. Many requests are received for boat photos for publications, and the editor encourages readers to submit action photos for class publicity purposes.

Peter Bordes sailing MAID OF PLIGH is featured on the cover, photographed by Booze of Perth Amboy. The article describes the three-week span of sailing and accomplishments that led to Bordes' selection as the subject for the magazine's cover.

Photo caption identifying the cover photo of Peter Bordes sailing MAID OF FLIGHT (603), the new National Champion, on his way to winning the championship with a solid 15.5-point lead after five races.

Will Libby announces the availability of Thistle Class films covering activities from 1946 to 1962. These films are property of the Association and available on a free loan basis with a $15 deposit. Various film lengths and subjects are listed.

A photo caption describing how telephoto lens photography can be deceptive, showing boats that appear to be colliding but are actually far apart.

A humorous, illustrated account of a three-boat race between Ed Kelly (the hero), Jerre Noe (the Light Air King), and Bill Neson (the Old Campaigner) presented as a theatrical play. The narrative follows their tactical maneuvers, with detailed scene descriptions and audience reactions showing how Kelly's villain tactics are ultimately foiled.

A satirical one-act play depicting Thistle racing drama on the water, featuring a home-town villain attempting to steal wind from a light-air racing specialist, with various characters including the Old Campaigner. The play uses humor to illustrate racing tactics and competitive dynamics.

Brief caption describing the cover photograph of two Thistles at the St. Petersburg Times photo competition, with a reference to turning to page 14 for more details.

Editorial note about the cover photograph showing sailing Thistles in competition. The photo was submitted by Andy Littlejohn along with coverage of the Southern California District Championship, describing the action of Art Glazier leading in the 1963 Labor Day Regatta in the District and Western District Championship.

Humorous account of a sailing mishap at Lake Erie District Championship where the narrator's crew was unexpectedly dunked into the water. Describes the incident, the family members involved, and the eventual rescue near shore.

Commentary on the cover photo of a Thistle sailboat (Tom Williams' CATHERINE) capturing an almost airborne sensation at the Red Grant Regatta near Perth Amboy, New Jersey, with technical notes on spinnaker technique and boat handling.

Brief social announcements about recent engagements and marriages within the Thistle Class, including the wedding of Ann Holtgren Hills and the engagement of Ann and Marilyn Hayes McLeod.

Describes a dramatic photo of Tom Williams (1499) sailing on a spinmaker reach during the Red Grant Regatta near Perth Amboy, New Jersey. The image captures the boat at maximum drive with the boom nearly touching the water as the boat lays over under full power.

Brief congratulations to two members of the Thistle Class who were married during the 1964 sailing season, with details of one couple's plans to stabilize their crew situation.

The masthead editorial introducing the 1966 Thistle sailing season, featuring a photograph by Peter Barlow of a sailboat under way, capturing the excitement of the season's beginning.

An appreciation of Peter Barlow's dramatic cover photograph and his work as a professional marine photographer, with notes on obtaining prints and reproductions of Thistle pictures.

The cover photograph shows a Thistle in striking racing conditions, taken by Peter Barlow at the first tune-up race at Lake Cowan. The image captures the drama and beauty of competitive sailing with the skipper in focus against the water and sky.

Detailed narrative of Peter Barrett's sailing adventure bringing boat #471 from California to compete in the 1967 Mid-Winters, including preparations, modifications to the boat, the journey itself, and experiences during the sailing event.

A lighthearted regatta report from the Broken Crank Regatta held on October 15, 1967. The article humorously describes the colorful mix of sailors and their boats at this informal sailing event, featuring various amusing anecdotes and notable competitors.

Cover photo essay featuring multiple sailboats under full sail demonstrating the start of the 1968 sailing season.

Opening photo essay capturing Thistle fleet racing at the start of the 1968 sailing season, featuring a dramatic shot of several Thistles at full sail with their characteristic daggerboards raised and fleet moving together across the water.

A humorous commentary on the mythology of the Thistle Nationals, contrasting boats of different eras and skill levels competing in national championships.

Photo section with caption describing compass course information for sailors and a memory guide for course changes.

A photo feature showing TCA President Tom Wilson demonstrating sailing safety by wearing his trusty Flotherhoe jacket while grinding his centerboard. The caption humorously notes this unusual sailing attire and asks if other sailors might consider wearing wearable jackets in marginal conditions.

An article about the interrelationship between Thistle and Snipe class sailors, particularly highlighting the achievements of women sailors who have competed successfully in both classes.

Discussion of romance between Thistle and Snipe class sailors, particularly featuring Sarah Norwood and Bill Thurston whose engagement exemplifies the competitive spirit and sailing community bonds across classes.

Photo feature with humorous caption showing sailors in a humorous situation, with commentary about regatta conditions.

Photo essay section with candid photographs from sailing events and captions describing various incidents and moments from Thistle racing.

A correction to a photograph in the May-June 1973 issue regarding the boom end of Jim Miller's boat.

Announcement of the wedding of Karen Larsen (Thistle 2840) to Dennie Neilson (Thistle 940), celebrated with a reception at the Island Bay Yacht Club in Springfield, Illinois.

By order of the Governing Board, a charge of $10 will be assessed for use of the 1973 film "The Many Moods of a Thistle." Requires a $20 deposit refundable on return, and charges cover postage and handling for borrowers.

Notes from the Chief Measurer and other officials regarding Thistle equipment specifications and a missing National Trophy.

Richard Goldman seeks a partnership for his lovely yellow-striped Thistle #1734, offering to trade with another skipper in the Santa Barbara Sailing Club area.

The editor welcomes contributions from readers and solicits articles about Thistle activities. Topics can range from racing and camping to technical articles.

A sailor named Richard Goldman shares his enthusiasm for Thistle sailing and reaches out for companionship while sailing his lovely yellow-striped Thistle named Flicka.

Announcement by sailmaker Ted Fontelieu about the birth of his son and consolidation of sailmaking operations into a new loft facility with improved capabilities and services.

Humorous science fiction piece about observed alien life forms on Earth and their mysterious rituals involving snow and ice.

A reader responds to Henry Clements' photography article, offering personal experiences and technical advice about photographing sailboat racing. Topics include camera choices, film types, and positioning for optimal shots.

Continuation of photography article with technical tips from John Rousmaniere, plus information about Acrillic Thistle covers, Dock Box retailer, and ARO Spar Company mast products.

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.

Guide to sailing photography from an award-winning photographer, covering techniques, composition, equipment selection, and practical tips for capturing dynamic sailing shots.

Guide to sailing photography techniques for capturing dynamic action shots of Thistles. Covers film selection, camera settings, positioning, composition principles, and practical advice for photographing racing conditions.

A collection of letters from Thistle sailors addressing topics including photography techniques, photography of Thistles from above, sail photoproofing solutions, amendments to the constitution, and fleet mooring standards and regulations.

A humorous tale about Charlie Williams from Uncle Roger Waite's collection of Thistle sailing memorabilia. The story describes an incident where Charlie inadvertently branded himself as a competitor who employed strategic positioning tactics during a regatta.

A humorous story from the 1953 Nationals at Racine about participants attempting to maintain boat positioning through unconventional means. The anecdote illustrates the competitive spirit and creative problem-solving of early Thistle sailors.

Small recounts a memorable racing story from when he was a young sailor in Huntington, Long Island. The narrative describes a competitive multi-class regatta where his volunteer crew led to an exciting race, conflicts with other competitors, and ultimately a celebration of camaraderie among Thistle sailors despite the heated competition.

A photo contest featuring three photographs from Thistle events. Readers are invited to identify the locations of the photos to win a prize.

A promotional feature about North Sails and their new North Cross Cut Spinnaker design for 1988, highlighting the company's ongoing support for Thistle sailors and offering special promotional pricing and fleet discounts.

A collection of fun racing photographs from various Thistle events, including boats displaying spinnaker techniques and a scenic photo with a trophy winner.

A narrative about a competitive race at Tappan Zee featuring boats 1358, 3682, and others. The story humorously captures the intense competition and sailing mishaps during a race, including the near-capsizing of boat 3682 and the surprising success of Captain Kent.

A photographic essay celebrating Thistle sailing across generations, featuring images of award ceremonies, families, youth, and social gatherings that demonstrate the inclusive and age-spanning nature of the class.

A letter from the daughter of an anonymous old Thistler congratulating Doug Laber and Judy White on their wedding, which took place in Powell, Ohio, with many Thistle Class officials and members in attendance.

A short announcement about the wedding of Cynthia Mitchell and Kevin Majane, who met through Thistle Class sailing and are both active in the sailing community.

A letter to the editor expressing thanks to the Thistle Class for a plant gift and reflecting on the sender's late husband's involvement with the class.

Special photographic retrospective section celebrating 50 years of Thistling history, featuring vintage photographs from various decades with captions identifying people, locations, and events spanning from the 1960s through 1980s.

Humorous article about Thistle skippers and crews who had connections to 'the number three,' including references to multiple skippers with three offspring crewing in the event.

A collection of brief news items and practical information including notes about perpetual trophies needing shipment, New York State life jacket regulations, and a new Thistle home page online.

Photo captions describing candid moments and activities at sailing events, featuring various Thistle sailors and their boats.

The editor discusses how the cover photo came about and encourages members to submit photos of races and boats. She also mentions the Gesner couple appearing in sailing publications and reminds members to invite photographers to their races.

A humorous first-hand account of an unplanned road trip to the Adirondack Invitational Regatta, filled with mishaps and unexpected adventures that still resulted in a great sailing experience.

Pat Tompkins describes the wedding celebration of Judy Tompkins and Eric Gesner (sailboat #3506) in Rochester, New York. The couple, who met and raced together in Thistles, celebrated after the 50th Anniversary and Nationals with a nautical theme and Thistle-related activities.

A section highlighting announcements and opportunities including the Secretary's Sweepstakes winner, a contest definition, and information about the Thistle homepage and how to submit content.

A section containing various announcements, poems, and stories shared within the Thistle community, including a wedding announcement, historical sailing stories, and poetry about racing experiences.

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.

Profile of Frank McKinnon and his journey into Thistle racing. Valentino chronicles McKinnon's path from being a newcomer to competitive sailing through his involvement with the Thistle community, his boat Honey Mustard, participation in the Dixie Regatta, and his growth as a sailor alongside the Lake Norman Thistlers.

Photo captions from a party and racing event, featuring humorous observations about Thistle sailors and activities, including mentions of Kit Holzaepfel's new invention and various skipper interactions.

Narrative account of a Thistle regatta at Huntington, Long Island, where the author and crew encounter various challenges and ultimately file a protest over a controversial incident involving another competitor, highlighting the camaraderie and friendly competition within the fleet.

A miscellaneous section featuring several brief items: an announcement about Secretary's Sweepstakes winners (John Fenno and Nora White), a report of a stolen Thistle 1433, news about Fleet Builders working on new fleets, and early regatta announcements.

A two-panel photograph article about social gatherings related to the Thistles Class, showing people at events.

Photo section with captions capturing moments from Thistle sailing events, including Doug Laber's newest Thistle at MWE, Andy Russell with his green thumb, the Race Committee enjoying the weather, and Greg Fisher working with Tom Hubbell's boat.

A photo feature with humorous captions depicting scenes from Thistle sailing events, including party moments and race course activities.

Humorous account of a Thistle mafia wedding ceremony at Yale University's Dwight Chapel in December 1997, where Thistlers formed an arch with their tillers and spinnaker poles for the newlyweds to pass under.

Pete Milnes expresses gratitude to the Thistle community for their support during his recent surgery and hospitalization. He thanks numerous friends for sending well wishes, prayers, and visits during his recovery.

A puzzle feature asking readers to identify a West Coast sailor based on a photo of someone measuring a boat. An answer is provided in reverse text at the bottom of the page.

A humorous account of how a Thistle was selected as a model for a Saks Fifth Avenue catalog photo shoot. The story follows the unexpected adventure of Ron and Marilyn sailing their Thistle while modeling for fashion photographers.

A quiz feature asking readers to identify a person in a photograph. This issue shows an old salt casting a critical eye on the shore of his main, with the answer on page 19.

Feature article about photographer John Krimmel's first solo exhibition titled "Art of the Machine Print" held at the Earl and Birdie Taylor Library in San Diego, March 3-31, 2000. The exhibition showcased Krimmel's sailing and landscape photographs, with an emphasis on Mission Bay and San Diego Bay subjects.

A profile of Carol Winchester, an artist who creates Thistles-themed artwork including watercolors and acrylics. The article describes her journey into art and the Thistle community, her award-winning works, and information on purchasing her art for regattas, gifts, and custom commissions.

George Silk's two instructional Thistle videos are now available again from New Enders Corporation after a two-year hiatus, with updated contact information and pricing details.

Letter to the editor describing how a photo of Krimmel from Midwinters West 2001 was published in Sailing World magazine, for which he received payment that he donated to Mission Bay Yacht Club in the name of the Thistle Class Association.

A report on the wedding of former Thistle Class president Chris Klotz and Antoinette Falk held in St. Petersburg, Florida on January 12, 2002. Several Thistle sailors and past presidents attended the ceremony and reception.

A photo section featuring images of Thistles at rest and moored at Put-In Bay, Ohio, inviting readers to submit their favorite photos for publication.

An account of Thistle sailors Dave Murray and Leah Hoffman's wedding celebration combined with sailing events at Seneca Lake, creating a unique regatta-like weekend for the Thistle community.

Charming account of the wedding of Thistle sailors Dave Murray and Leah Hoffman on July 3rd, who combined their wedding celebration with a sailing event at Seneca Lake, complete with competitive races and regatta-style festivities.

A collection of submitted photographs from class members, including images from various regattas and social events throughout the sailing season.

Photo collection page featuring special Thistle-related images including a beautiful wooden Thistle on Clinton Lake near Lawrence, Kansas, a Midwinters East shot, and a James River sailing scene with a mixed fleet.

Miscellaneous items section including a photo from Hunter Dyer and notes about fleet correspondence and dues collection.

Photo section featuring Thistle-related images submitted by readers, including sunrise through rigging at North Cape Yacht Club and Lake Erie Fall Finale at Buckeye Lake.

Photo spread featuring the five couples married in 2006 (Craig Koschalk and Lauren Hoffman, Chris Murphy and Jess Kitchin, Kimberly Pasley and Mike McBride, Paul Kreitler and Erin Sherer, Charlie Kreitler and Allison Ehri) and details of the polyester wedding ceremony held at the Nationals.

Humorous mock prenuptial agreement for Thistle sailors incorporating sailing references and provisions for maintaining separate sailing assets, unlimited sailing passes, and prioritizing sailing and regatta preparations over household duties.

Brief submission to the Over the Transom section from a traveling sailor named Vince, expressing regret at missing the 2006 Nationals and promising to share travel photos and adventures from around the world in future issues.

Photo section for reader submissions showing Thistles and sailing-related images, including a notice for the June 23-24, 2007 Vermilion Boat Club regatta and photographs from various events and social activities.

Column featuring a photograph of Jim Ballintine, his daughter Sheila, and son Brendan with a caption about making sure the windward jib sheet is free after tacking, plus a note from Vince about road trip travels on Cape Cod and scuba diving adventures including catching a 12-pound lobster.

Reader photo submission page featuring images of Thistle sailing activities, including a wedding reception at a yacht club and a photograph from the High Sierra Regatta, inviting readers to share sailing-related photographs.

Zimmer recounts the remarkable journey of rediscovering his childhood Thistle #390 (Zip Zim) after 50+ years, tracking it down through the TCA website, and reuniting it with his elderly father.

A photo column featuring candid images from Thistle events, including a morning dockside ritual photo by Nancy Molitor.

A reader-submitted photo section featuring images from Thistlers on the road and at various locations, encouraging community members to share their Thistle adventure photographs.

A humorous column featuring a postcard-style letter from someone vacationing in Las Vegas, describing gambling losses, entertainment, and free attractions while jokingly asking for money from 'Benny'.

Photo collage and reader submissions featuring Thistles in action and humorous observations, including a multi-generational sailing family photo and a Thistle found on a farm in Poland.

A photo column featuring reader submissions and brief anecdotes, including the Berlin Yacht Club (Fleet #120) members at a ski resort, and a personal account from Ron Small about how he got started sailing in the Thistle Class.

John Krimmel was honored at the Mid-Winters West banquet in San Diego for over 30 years of dedication to photographing the Thistle Class. A commemorative poster of his work was presented, and testimonials from sailors highlighted his impact on capturing the spirit and pride of the class.

Photo section featuring family stories and humorous images from the Thistle community, including birth announcements, ski trip photos, wedding celebrations, and snow-covered boats after Mid-Winters.

Announcement of the winner of the "Snowmaged-Dan" photo contest, which invites members to submit photos of Thistles surviving the winter. Marlene Reasoner's photo of her husband Dan attempting to sail a snow-filled Thistle was selected as the winner and can be viewed on the TCA website and Facebook page.

Photo column featuring reader-submitted images of Thistle sailing with the caption "Mysterious things happen when you get a woodie!" Photos credited to various sailors.

Account of a unique wedding ceremony held on a Thistle sailboat at Mill Creek Lake in Natural Bridge State Park, Kentucky. Heather and Michael Best got married on September 20, 2014, with guests surrounding them in kayaks and canoes. Details the planning, boat decoration, and logistics.

A column featuring miscellaneous and unexpected Thistle-related anecdotes and photos, including sailing humor and personal moments from members.

Sarah Hunter pays tribute to John Arthur Krimmel, who died December 16, 2020, at age 101. Krimmel had a distinguished career as a research chemist and environmental scientist, and was an accomplished photographer whose work appears in San Diego's Civic Art Collection. He was an avid sailor who started on Lake Erie in his youth and continued racing Thistles in San Diego for many years, earning respect for his seamanship and his enthusiastic sharing of sailing photography with the Thistle community.

Lake Erie District announces the marriage of Conor O'Neil Ruppen and Carrie Lynn Patterson at the 2021 Harvest Moon Regatta. The newlyweds incorporated Thistle Class and sailing traditions into their wedding celebration on the water.

Art section featuring a reader-submitted watercolor painting of Klinger Lake in Michigan, created from a photograph using water colors and tissue paper.