 Bill Mattson Yeah, we're still here. This one is a Jan/Feb issue due to my time constraints, along with a shortage of material for February. This month, Mike Hill provides an exciting account of this year's Steeplechase in the Florida Keys. Sounds like the conditions became a bit out of control. No exaggeration here, as Mike backs up his claims with some weather buoy charts. Most importantly, he sums up the experience with the lessons learned. This article just might save some butts out there. Chris Bolton provides some memories of a road trip back in 1995. This is a witty and entertaining story. If you enjoy this as much as I, drop Chris an email. He mentioned that he may have more stories to tell. The Pitchpole. Most Hobie sailors are familiar with them, and those who have had the "pleasure" of one will probably never forget their first. Brian Hollinger gives a detailed account of his first experience with the "P" word. This should give some memories for those of us who have had one, and a preview to those who have not. Not yet, anyway. Back from his coverage of the H16 Continental Championships, William Wallick returns with his regular column "On The Bookshelf". You can count on Bill to give tips on great sailing books that you can actually purchase online at the bottom his article. Okay, I'd rather not do bi-monthly issues. So all you sailors in warmer regions need to start sending me stories. Some folks have boats under snow, and are getting really, really irritable. Give 'em something to read, and we just might keep them from going insane. Sail fast, sail safe,  William R. Mattson, Editor mattson@earthlink.net |
 Frank Pineau Welcome to the New Year! I'm sure this next season will bring with great sailing weather and good times. (They have to be better, as you saw in last months article "Hurtin' Frank"). Just watched the movie "Wind" again. Everytime I watch it I get "Pumped" and want to go out! I should learn by now to have my H16 ready to go, get some popcorn and beer, and watch the movie from my tramp. Come-on Summer!!! I just read "The Steeplechase" by Mike Hill in this month's features. There is a lot of lessons in this tale, not withstanding the poor fellow who owes his life to perseverance. The addition of "GPS" hardware is becoming more and more prevalent. The "Florida road trip" article is a nice piece, and not unlike journeys I've made in the past. Seems like there are days when bailing wire is your only friend. Happy reading and keep warm till summer. Especially you sailors in New England...  Frank Pineau, Editor Next Month: Oschen Blocks On The Wire is always looking for content, and welcomes material applicable all levels of sailing expertise. Got information, experience, stories, or tips to share? We can take ANY format in any of the following ways: Email:mattson@earthlink.net Fax: 805-933-8267 Mail: 203 N. 6th St. Santa Paula, CA 93060 Cover Photo by Chris Bolton |
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