June’s update, hot off the press
A New Director
I am delighted to introduce NSC’s newest Board member, John Rae as your Sail Training Director. NSC’s sail training centre is a big job and John brings great perspective and experience. Welcome John.
We owe Dave Bradly a debt of thanks for his work since last November in the LTS role: Dave’s energy put NSC’s school, instructors and program in great shape for 2016. Now, he needs time to focus on his business and family, thank you Dave!
Callum Smith remains in position as our School Manager.
Around the Grounds and Harbour
You are bound to notice a few changes in the place this summer, small and large: a spiffy bike rack and bench at the club’s entrance, new river- and fresh-water taps on the service dock, a new outdoor WiFi system with improved coverage, “batter-boards” being built for the south crane well, repaired dock-wagons and a highly visible notice board on the main dock gate.
We’re always listening for suggestions to improve and when it comes to anything “property” or “marine” related, reach out to Michael Hoffman and/or Gene Bruce, we’re about to start our planning process for 2017.
Also, a shout-out to Jack Cook, back on the docks replacing boards for another Summer. Thanks Jack!
“The Yard” is in very good shape and all of our slips have been allocated. Yet, there are still some boats waiting for launch: if their owners have not been in touch with the harbourmaster, please do so to make their intentions clear
Thy Tenders
If you own a tender and it is stored at NSC, you need to act by July 17th on a notice from your Harbourmaster to ensure that NSC knows what tender you own. We have had very successful silent auctions for unclaimed tenders in the past. Just sayin’.
On The Water
Once again, the NSC fleet has shown its commitment to our healthy Club racing program: 100 Boats have registered to race in 2016 which is significant: Rumour is that our sport is on a decline. Well, evidently, not at Nepean.
Sail Past was fun despite some “iffy” weather and the Nepean One Design managed to squeeze-in 80 boats across 10 fleets from 17 Clubs. This year’s regatta was also host for the J/24 Provincial championships and a berth for the 2017 J/24 world championships was awarded to the top J/24: Thomas Taylor’s “A1” from Dalhousie YC.
Our Members
At the annual burgee presentation, John Connolly introduced two new traditions. First, “press-gang” mugs were awarded to members who have served for ten or more years on the NSC Board of Directors in the past. Inaugural recipients were Randy Wiseman, Tom Winlow, Brian Aitken and Peter Bradley. Cool mugs that come with a free beverage and our sincere thanks.
Second, John also announced the NSC “Outstanding Volunteer of the Year Award”. Details will follow from John and the award will be given based on popular vote across the membership. Put your thinking-caps on and think of a nomination.
NSC By The Numbers
The 2015 Financial Statements have been audited and the Board has recommended them for your approval at the 2016 AGM. NSC remains in good shape financially and we were able to make a significant contribution in 2015 toward rebuilding our reserve. Once the final document is available from our auditors, it will be available on the NSC website.
Around the Community
NSC is a strong supporter of our community and, so far this year, we have logged a number of achievements including a first ever “Ice Fishing” fundraiser for Crystal beach to help adopt a Syrian family, a Poker Run to raise money for facilities at Constance Bay, Instructor Clinics for the Ontario Sailing Association and support the Royal Canadian Sea Cadets.
Upcoming are three major events: Three in support of Easter Seals of Ontario (the annual “Bring on the Bay” swim, Easter Seals Family Sail and an Easter Seals fundraising dinner) and the now annual “Get Out On The Water” event. If you have questions or would like to get involved, please contact Paula McCooey.
In addition, NSC is actively supporting Ottawa’s bid for the 2021 Canada Summer Games in two ways: as the Open Water Swimming venue and, of course, the sailing venue. This is a long process, stay tuned for details.