Bayview Boat Club News

Commodore's Log

May, 2007

The End of an Era: Farewell, Linda Gail II

Last Sunday (May 20), there was a bittersweet moment for those of us who were on N Dock. Chris (“Redman”) and Linda Redmond have sold their boat, and were up top, removing the final bit of lettering from the “whale’s tail”, as they “de-christened” the Linda Gail II.

Chris and Linda Redmond, Linda Gail II

Chris and Linda, closeup

Many of us have great memories of exciting ‘boat rides’, and fun times aboard the Linda Gail II. For years, she was the leader of our Club boat parades, and fittingly so. The Redmonds generously shared her with us all.

But it was not just fun and laughter, aboard the Linda Gail II. Many times, Redman took her out in truly frightful conditions, and in the dead of night, to rescue hapless boats from off the rocks, and pull them and their crew out of danger. Then, with winds howling and heaving swells slapping her sides, we’d watch Redman, with such panache, back the Linda Gail II safely into her slip, better than most could do in dead calm.

I’m sure another boat is in the future for the Redmonds, with more good times to share. And the ‘old’ boat isn’t gone – she’ll stay in the same slip, beginning a new story with her new owner and a new name. But, for a while at least, expect to see some of us lost in our memories, a wistful expression on our faces, as we stroll by the former Linda Gail II. May you fare well, old gal, in your new life.

5/15/07 - Clarification on 'Blessing' Registration
After receiving an emailed question from a new club member, I realized I hadn't been quite clear about Blessing of the Fleet registration, especially regarding non-members. I rewrote some info on the Registration page, but I'll explain here, too.
Anyone may have their boat join the 'Blessing' procession through Bayview Marina, and have our chaplain ask a blessing on their boat and crew. No membership is necessary. Also, if their boat can't go out, the chaplain can visit their slip, afterwards. But we do ask that they register, so we'll have the information needed to do this, and they'll have the proper instructions. They'll be issued numbers for identification, and get instructions at the Skipper's Meeting.
If, in addition to having their boat blessed, they want to compete for decorated-boat trophies and prizes, and come to the Pirate Party afterwards (where awards are presented), we ask that they at least join as one-day members, for $10. Member dues pay for trophies and other event expenses, and for party expenses (meat, drinks, decorations, kid's prizes, etc.).

Oh, another question I received was, "What kind of meat will we have at the party, so I'll know what kind of a side dish to bring?"
We'll have marinated, cross-cut beef ribs. We'll have coconut curry chicken skewers. And we'll have spicy (not too spicy) chili chicken drumsticks and thighs.

5/9/07 - 'The Harbor', in Rockwall, Joins In
Got a call from Rob Whittle (Whittle Development and The Harbor), in response to an email I sent him. He said he'd love to participate in our Blessing of the Fleet event, and have our parade go by The Harbor. He'll have judges and awards for us, from The Harbor.
So, after going through Bayview Marina, our parade will pass Bass Pro, then cross over to pass Chandler's Landing and The Harbor.
Pray for good weather!

5/8/07 - DFD 'Marine 1' Boat Will Participate in Blessing
Just talked to Chief Martin of the Dallas Fire Department. He's graciously agreed to have the new DFD Fire-Rescue Boat, 'Marine 1', take part in our Blessing of the Fleet ceremony! (Obviously, if they get an urgent call, that takes priority.) If it's not windy, we may have them create a spectacular water-cannon arch for the parade to pass under. If too windy, we can have them close out the procession with a big rooster tail. We'll work out the details, but I wanted to let you know. I'm excited. What a show this'll be.

5/4/07 - Bass Pro is on board!
My thanks to Lisa Byrn in Promotions at Bass Pro - she's really been working hard to come through for us. Here's what we've got, so far.
We'll open up registration for the boat parade a week before the event. If you drop your form off, or fill it out, at the Bass Pro Customer Service desk, you'll be entered in a drawing. (If you register on event day, you need to register at the Marina.) The drawing will be held at the party, after the parade, for one $50, and two $25 gift cards for Islamorada Restaurant.
On May 19, after we go through Bayview Marina and receive the blessing, we'll parade over past Bass Pro. Bass Pro will be judging for 'Best Decorated', three places in the three boat classes, too, and awarding gift cards, merchandise, and maybe trophies (she's still checking into that).