On May 11th, 2018, about 20 skippers, spouses, family, and crew gathered at Bristol Yacht Club for the SSA Annual Meeting. We enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner and each other’s company.

Carter first summarized the state of the organization. Sea Sprite sailors are a dispersed group, with boats in 27 states, including Alaska. 2017 Dues payment were down to 45 last year, but even with lowered income we met our expenses, donated $350 to maintenance of SS23’s in the Herreshoff Marine Museum Sailing School, and saw our balance at the end of 2017 rise $400 to $4,700. A detailed balance sheet is available upon request. Our goal of having a balance to cover 8 years of operating expenses has been met. The SSA balance next year is projected to remain close to $4,777, for free hats are being given away with the payment of $25 dues for 2018. Web site visits are lower, with annual page visits of 90,000 in 2014 dipping to 50,000 last year. It is suspected that web site visits and Forum use are simply leveling off. We have a new Forum that incorporates all our history going back 12 years, displays a new format, and has expanded capabilities that include the ability to upload photos directly from one’s computer and/ or mobile device. We also worked with the Herreshoff Sailing School and their donated fleet of 3 SS23’s. The Herreshoff received $350 from the SSA, membership to the SSA, 3 race entry fees, and multiple donations from local members of rigging gear to be sold at their annual dock sale.

Jon Goff, Race Committee Chair, then reviewed the winners of the Amon Award (Wednesday evening race series…Bob Catani), the Sea Spright Regatta (2 race regatta…Jon Enright), and the Nancy Belle Award (best racer on Narragansett Bay…Bob Catani). He then awarded the Denise Award, given annually for leadership contribution to the SSA. Ruth Souto, BYC Commodore and avid SS23 racer, accepted the award on behalf of Bristol YC for their past and continuing support of the R.I. Fleet.

Ruth, BYC Commodore, accepts Denise Award on behalf of Bristol YC

Herb Browne gave the Browne Award for exceptional sportsmanship demonstrated on the water to Bob Catani.

Bob C. holds his award of the Browne Award

Then Herb led off the end of the meeting with reminiscences of Harold Tucker, a local Narragansett Bay, sailor who passed away last month at the age of 91. I suspect Harold was chuckling along with us.

Herb recalls Harold Tucker

Everybody, have a wonderful sailing season!!!