| Vol 1 - Issue 5 | January 1997 |
 Bill Mattson What a sick bunch! It appears that our JATO bit was just as popular as our missile experiment. Well, give 'em what they want, I always say. We'll need a little time, though. Maybe we'll find something to blow up in the next issue. For now, check out Kim Miller's excellent article on telltales. If you have been unsure as to how to use those little ribbons, don't miss this in-depth study. Does the type of rope you use really matter? It sure does, and Mark Michealsen tells you why. "Knowing the Ropes" is a great guide to rope types and applications. This is a must-read for anyone interested in safe and proper lines for their boat. Sailing season may be over, but it's no time to ignore your equipment. Save money by taking care of maintenance now. Mark Michealsen's Offseason Checklist will have you ready to go as soon as weather permits. Jeff Browning raises some serious questions on the future of sailing in his continuing column. Beware that in addition to his well written piece, Jeff also provides some interesting links, so you may find yourself spending a bit of time here! Jeff is always looking for comments on the controversial subjects presented. Send you emails in to spur some future discussion. This month, William Wallick reviews a video in his regular column. Whether you are building a library, or just looking for the occasional book/video, check On The Bookshelf for a preview. In a new continuing feature this month, On The Wire will be offering books on sailing in association with Amazon Books. This is taking a bit of work to set up, so you will see additional books being listed every few days. Be sure and read the details on ordering, since your purchases will be helping keep On The Wire online and free to readers, providing you use our links to order. Enjoy the issue, and remember that we are always looking for content. If you would like your story to appear in our pages, drop us a line. Sail fast, sail safe,  William R. Mattson, Editor mattson@earthlink.net
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 Frank Pineau Well, we've got several issues under our belt now, and the compliments keep on coming in. I would like to thank all of our readers for the responses, as it's a relief to know that some Hobie sailors share the same "demented" sense of humor. I would also like to thank all the readers who contribute to the articles. Collectively, we've got a lot of talent out there. As we enter the new year, my hope for all sailors, Hobie and likewise, is for a safe and exciting season. I myself have learned some very valuable lessons this past year, which I'm sure will make me a better sailor. This year I intend to introduce many more people to the shear pleasure of HobieCatting. This sport has captivated me for over 20 years, and seeing the newly found excitement in someone's eyes is a great feeling. I taught my son how to sail a Hobie several years ago, and it's something he will carry with him his whole life. Personally, I'll do my best to continue the testing required by the OTW labs, in the name of advancing this great sport. Have a wonderful year,  Frank Pineau, Editor frp@pacificnet.net Next Month: Building a Sail Box Cover Photo by Linda Pineau |
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