www.MountVernonYachtClub.

com

Vol. 44 No. 07

JULY 2007
We had a great start to our 2007 Dolphins season. The weather warmed up a week before the pool opened, so the kids didnt have to bring their ice picks to practice as I had previously predicted. The turnout has been high for practices, and the parents are giving kudos to our wonderful coaches, Suzy Tomasovic and Rachelle Nelson. Of course, as I write this article we have not yet had our first swim meet. The fun really begins on June 16th as we square off against Westwood Country Club. They have about three times the number of swimmers on their team, so by the time you read this the meet may actually be over. But seriously, after Westwood come arch-rivals Mount Vernon Country Club and Springfield Golf and Country Clubs. These teams are a little smaller than Westwood, but still overpower our little, but feisty, Dolphins team. Im sure that we will have fun at all these meets, and even if our team doesnt win, many kids will improve their times and have small personal triumphs, like swimming butterfly for the first time in a meet.

On Your Mark
Juliette Clark, Swim Team Representative

Go MVYC Dolphins!

This season also marks the departure of one of our Seniors, Michael Knetemann. Mike has participated on the team for many years, and with his graduation from Gonzaga comes his graduation from the team. Many times our graduating seniors arent able to swim in their last season, but Mike says hell be at a few meets in July, so we are planning to make a fuss over him. Ive already warned him, and I know hell be a good sport about it. All of the kids are looking forward to the end of school and the start of morning practice. This season also features a new afternoon practice schedule to accommodate kids and parents with work and camp commitments. Were hoping that the new schedule will allow more kids to participate, and we will grow our small team. Finally, the swim team runs a very important event in July, so Im typing this in bold. Dont forget to attend the 4th of July party. The party kicks off at Noon. We will have food, soft drinks, beer and games. And, we will have the annual greased watermelon contest. If Dave Lohman is successful in getting cheaper insurance, we will have the annual Pain Dive contest. Im thinking of some cruel and creative twists to the tee-shirt relay as well. Attention New Members: This is the best 4th of July party you will ever attend! Attention New Members: This is the best 4th of July party you will ever attend! MORE SWIM TEAM PHOTOS pg 8. Membership Meetings: Board Meetings: Monday 16 July Monday 20 August at 7:30pm
(the third Monday of the month)

Suspended for the Summer! Will resume on September 6 at 8 pm

(the first Thursday of the month)

Social Committee Meetings: Monday 9 July Monday 13 August at 7:30pm

(the Second Monday of the month)

- - Published Monthly by the Mount Vernon Yacht Club - -

Finally - the chilly, lingering spring weather has given way to the best days of summer: warm days, but not too warm; cool nights, but not too chilly. This is perfect weather for all of our Submitted by Pool People, Point Picnickers, Boat Boys and Babes, a few Fish-ianados, a Dog Doer or two, Bart Hewitt, plus the always exciting appearance of young ospreys on the Dolphin. Your BEACON staff BEACON Editor and our regular BEACON contributors have finished this July issue, and are eagerly looking forward to August, because (Oh Happy Day) the BEACON takes a vacation in August. For those of you who submit materials for the BEACON, the next due date is August 15th for the September issue. So everyone - please accept the best wishes of your dedicated and overworked BEACON staff and contributors for a relaxing, memorable and safe summer.

EDITORIAL

Announcing New Applications For Membership in MVYC

Submitted by Bonnie Breneman Pursuant to Article XV, Section 2(c), The Bylaws of the Mount Vernon Yacht Club, Amended October 3, 2002. The following applications have been posted. Each family may be offered a membership opportunity as openings become available. Sandra Meckley (Bray Wilson), 9305 Forest Haven Drive, Alexandria VA David & Jeannine Simmons, 4600 Ferry Landing Road, Alexandria VA Loran & Joanna Ambs, 5103 Firethorne Court, Fairfax VA Jim & Diane Smith, 4505 Dolphin Lane, Alexandria VA Marianne Ketels, 8619 Curtis Avenue, Alexandria VA Vin & Christine Vassallo, 9051 Tower House Place, Alexandria VA John Davis, 5704 Olde Mill Court #137, Alexandria VA Peter & Jan Erickson, 208 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria VA Jeffrey & LuAnne Kirkland, 8515 Riverside Road, Alexandria VA JC & Mary Lewis, 9388 Mount Vernon Circle, Alexandria VA

SPOTLIGHT ON NEW MEMBERS

Submitted by Marge Skelly JEANNINE & DAVID SIMMONS live on Ferry Landing Rd. in the house with the big boat along side it. They & their 9 year old daughter, Nicole enjoy boating, swimming, & fun people of all ages. David grew up in the area & now works for Affordable Quality Roofing, Siding, & Windows. Jeannine is an Air Force brat & has lived as far away as Okinawa, Japan. She has worked at Mt. Vernon Hospital as a registered nurse for 14 years. Nicole attends Washington Mill Elementary School & already has a number of "bestest" friends here at the club.
All Club members may submit articles, letters and notices for editorial review and possible publication. Submission by ee-mail or compact disc is encouraged.
Copyright 2007 Mount Vernon Yacht Club, All Rights Reserved.

Published monthly by

the Mount Vernon Yacht Club

4817 Tarpon Lane, Alexandria, VA 22309

Chris Ruckman, Ruckman, Commodore

Beacon Staff

Editor: Asst Editor: Photographer: Photographer: Circulation:

Bart Hewitt Chris Bazel George Holthaus Russell Poe Delong Litho

Cover

artwork

by

Don Cannavaro

Deadline for September issue:

Beacon Editor 9123 Cherrytree Drive Alexandria, Virginia 22309 Phone 703-799-0401

15th of august
Photo by G. Holthaus
Vol. 44, No.07

Beacon@MountVernonYachtClub.com
The Beacon page 2

Join us on Independence Day for one of the premier family events of the year! Theres too much fun for just one day. Come down to the Point and watch the Parade of Lights on July 3rd! Well have more lights than a traveling production of The Phantom of the Opera.

The Bosuns Whistle

Chris Ruckman, Commodore

The 4th starts with softball at Grist Mill Park. We begin the game the old-fashioned way: by singing the National Anthem. Then, athletes young and old step up to the plate and swing-batter-swing. If youve ever wondered just how fast a person can run without shoes, keep your eye on John Leary. What follows is a full day of fun at the pool and picnic table for the entire family. All of the major food groups will be represented: the burger group, the barbecue group, the lemonade group, and perhaps even the watermelon group. The kids will need that nourishment after spending all day playing games at the pool. Of course, we cant allow any fireworks at MVYC. Explosives and gasoline-powered boats just dont mix, but there are plenty of fireworks shows nearby. The closest show is at Fort Belvoirs Freemont Field. Just turn left on Route 1. When it comes to watching DCs spectacular fireworks show, there is no better vantage point than on your boat with friends. From the river, with the monuments in the background, the view is breathtaking. However, as you prepare for your big boat trip to DC, put SAFETY at the top of the list: Unless you have taken a certified boating safety course, and you have all of your safety gear on board, dont even think about it. With so many other boats around, and with summers unpredictable storms, you need to be prepared for anything. In particular, be prepared for a routine boarding by the Coast Guard. Respect the no-wake zones. The Coast Guard expands them on Independence Day for everyones safety. Violators can expect instant celebrity status while they receive their costly citation. Most importantly, consider what to do after the fireworks. Hundreds of vessels will be trying to get home at the same time. Many of the captains will be inexperienced and/or inebriated. Even though the moon will be nearly full, accidents and groundings are a real danger. Consider spending the night at anchor, safely isolated from the yahoos that will be careening down-river at full throttle. I wish you all a safe and happy holiday.

Condolences
Submitted by Marge Skelly Jean Scully, mother of long-time member Jerri Pogue - and a loved & admired friend of many in the MVYC community passed away on May 30th after a short illness. She was a tireless advocate for affordable housing, serving in many volunteer positions, including President of Good Shepherd Housing & Family Services. She will be greatly missed. Heartfelt sympathy to Jerri & her family.
The Beacon page 3 Vol. 44, No.07

Summer boating weather has finally arrived, its hot and the activity at our marina has picked up and most of the slips are full.

On the Docks

It seems as though the 2007 boating season started off a bit rough. Aside from the cold weather that wouldnt leave, high By Jerry Gray winds have been causing havoc for many boaters. Radio traf& Alexi Stavropoulos fic on the VHFs over the past few weeks has been full of Marina Co-Chairs emergency calls up and down the river. Walking around the marina and listening to some of the stories about individual boat issues, one would think we have gremlins or perhaps even ghosts at MVYC. Fortunately most issues were resolved at the marina. Over Memorial Day weekend, VHF radios were used by two of our own members who were in need of assistance. Both incidents occurred on a Saturday within a few hours of each other. Empty Pockets ran into some engine trouble as she was leaving the marina. Fortunately, the Captain was able to hail Triada that was moored in her slip. Shortly thereafter, Captain Steve Donock splashed Mini Resort and was able to tow Empty Pockets back to her slip. The day for Empty Pockets was not a complete bust. Making the best of the situation, the kids aboard were able to swim until help arrived. Later that same evening Loan Ranger was making her way back to the club when one of the crew noticed water on the floor of the cabin. Upon inspection, the engines were halfway under water. After many failed attempts to hail the Coast Guard on the VHF, Captain Steve Donock of Last Resort heard the distress call and responded. Once it was determined the sinking boat was in front of the Dolphin heading into the club, Steve immediately diverted the boat from the marina over to the ramp at MVOP. The purpose was to beach the boat at the ramp and prevent it from sinking any further. Members provided pumps and made every effort to help keep the boat afloat until a trailer was retrieved. The captain and crew of Loan Ranger were safe. After pulling the boat, it was determined an intake hose on one of the engines failed and caused the boat to fill with water. After speaking with Anthony Henderson, the boat owner, he expressed how wonderful everyone was that provided assistance. As for Loan Ranger, a quick fix to the hose and she went back in the water Sunday for a cruise. This is yet another example of how members at MVYC get together to help each other out. A special thanks to Steve Donock, and everyone else there that Saturday who assisted with both river rescues. We should all keep our radios tuned to channel 16 when at the dock; it can make a big difference to a fellow boater. With Fourth of July and Labor Day right around the corner, there will certainly be more opportunities to provide assistance to boaters in need. See you on the river!

For Sale: SYNERGY

30 Seidelmann 30T SD Sailboat 1984 Masthead Sloop Cruiser/Racer
Well Maintained, Many Extras
Fiberglass hull: barrier coated, new CSC antifoulant and trim paint (11 0 beam) Displacement 8800 lbs, Ballast 3600 lbs Shoal-draft fixed keel (4 2 draft) Sails: 3 Genoas (155/130/95 %), 2 Spinnakers (one new), and Main (7 part Harken sheet, 4 part Vang and adjustable traveler) Winches: 2-spd Barient 25 (main) and 2- spd Lewmar 30, self-tailing (secondary) Halyards/foreguy led aft thru Spinlocks to 2-spd Lewmar 16 deckhouse winch Wheel steering Beneteau backstay adjuster 13HP Yanmar diesel w/ feathering prop Standing headroom (6.5 cabin & head) Sleeps 5+ (private double V berth, fold-out double berth, and quarter berth) Head: marine toilet, holding tank, Y-valve Vanity w/ mirror, hot/cold pressure water shower & sink Galley: large built-in ice chest, 2-burner alcohol stove/oven, & sink, utensil/dish racks Fold down table and bar Electric outlets 110 volts Bilge pump w/ automatic switch Cockpit with custom removable cushions, cocktail table, bimini and awning Electronics: knot meter, depth sounder, VHF, stereo, 2 batteries, 2 level cabin lights Coast Guard documented All required (and additional) safety gear

Mount Vernon Yacht Club (Slip

B-8)

$17,000
The Beacon

Contact Chris Brehany at 703-818-7272

page 4 Vol. 44, No.07

The next event MVYC 5th Annual Parade of Lights. This year it is on Tuesday, July 3rd. No excuses, the next day is the official holiday and we want to see many boaters from the sail and power fleet out there shining bright. Fly our club burgee, pull out the bunting and flags, collect your red, white and blue lights and outfit your vessel for this fun event! This is a great opportunity to take your family and friends on your vessel for this fun-filled event. Join us! The 4th of July is always special in Washington, DC. Many boaters head up the river to find a spot to anchor out and watch the fireworks. It is a spectacular view and it's really easy to get wrapped up in the excitement. There are a few things to consider for some of you new boaters if you choose to tackle this affair. First, decide if you are ready to go. Its best to bring your boating safety course card and to have a 2007 safety inspection on your vessel. Make sure you have plenty of gas, since your return trip may be unpredictable. Bring water and be prepared to accomodate passengers with the need to go (empty your holding tank). Go early. The last thing you want to deal with is finding a spot to anchor as its getting dark. It gets very crowded after 7pm and you need to find a spot with ample radius around you. The tide (and wind) will most likely change while youre there. Make sure you set your anchor properly. We have witnessed occurences where boats break loose and the captain and party on board were not aware of their drifting position until they were on top of another boat. Enjoy the fireworks, MVYC Independence Day they are AWESOME! Parade of Lights The return trip is of most concern. Ive been participating in the 5th Annual Parade of Wash DC fireworks for years, and EVERY YEAR there are serious Lights. On Tuesday, July problems with folks getting home safely. I either plan to stay over night, or I wait for the maniacs to clear the river. Youd be amazed 3rd at 7:30 PM at Buoy 67 at how many boaters leave immediately after the fireworks and race through the crowded waters and down the river. The patrol boats are out in numbers and its very easy for them to spot captains that forget to turn on their nav lights, or have passengers on the bow, or dont observe the NO WAKE zones. Whats worse are the swimmers and kayakers in the water who may be in danger from captains who are too anxious to leave. For some of you, watch the tide and clearance under the 14th street bridge. The best bet is to stay overnight and come back in the morning. Its fun. Otherwise, wait until midnight or 1:00 AM to leave, and follow someone that has RADAR and GPS. Have a spotter on board to help you watch for channel markers, debris and other boats. Its worth it if you prepare, observe safety rules and use common sense. We are looking forward to the continued July power fleet events: Alexandria Birthday Celebration on July 7th in Old Town. Mark your calendars for the annual PRYCA Float-In Event at Port Kinsale July 20th-22nd and the cruise to Coles Point on August 25th and 26th. Have a fun and safe summer on the Potomac River!

By David Miskimens

Power Power Fleet Fleet News News

Hey boaters, its time to enjoy warmer days and fun evenings, perfect for a sunset cruise or sitting on your boat at the marina. Whatever you do, enjoy the boating season! Since my last article weve had another great turnout for the USCG Auxiliary Courtesy Safety Inspection Day. A sucessful Commissioing Day, Memorial Day raftups and many boaters just having fun on the river!

Decorate your boat for the

Toon Fleet Enters War On Terror

Submitted by Bart Hewitt, Toon Fleet Captain and Inventor News Flash!!! The MVYC Toon Fleet Captain has sent an unsolicited proposal to the Department of Homeland Security, a bold proposal to equip our Military with his new invention: the TerrorToon. Now, you historians out there know that the early Romans, Greeks and Phoenicians built warships known as "Biremes" (two banks of oars) and "Triremes" (three banks of oars) that were extraordinarily successful in sea battles. It follows, therefore, that on today's increasingly vulnerable waters, single-hulled warships (like conventional pleasure boats) are essentially useless, whereas warships with two hulls are clearly superior. These double-tooned fighters will be called "TerrorToons," and will be used to patrol our shallowest waterways, detecting and destroying enemy Terror Craft. The prototype TerrorToon can be seen patrolling the vulnerable waters of Dogue Creek and beyond. When you see her, give her a hearty "AHOY, TerrorToon," and sail on, safe in the knowledge that TerrorToon is on your side.

The Beacon

page 5

Vol. 44, No.07

June has flown by and the club is in full Summer mode! Everyone is out and about enjoying the clubhouse, pool, marina and point. Its wonderful to see so many friends taking advantage of our facilities and participating in our activities with family and acquaintances. The swim team is up and kicking and its not too late to inquire if you have kids who can swim. ( Contact Juliette Clark.) By the time Claudia Reinsel, you read this, we should be recovered from our fantastic New MemGail Mlinarchik Social Committee bers Welcoming Party (Beware of people with coconut bras, leis or fins on their head). Look for a full report in your next Beacon.

In the Spirit

We celebrate the 4th of July big time at MVYC. There is always a pick-up softball game at Grist Mill Park around 10 am (ish). The Swim Team parents organize a hot dog, hamburger, chips, etc. lunch poolside around 12PM (cheapo prices) followed by childrens pool games. Charcoal for grills will be provided at the point for those who wish to picnic in the evening and stay to watch the Ft. Belvoir fireworks display later on. If you are a boater, join us for our very own Parade of Lights on July 3. Decorate your boat in red, white and blue lights etc. and cruise with the power fleet up to Ft. Washington and back. Its a one-of-a-kind experience! (Contact Dave Miskimmens.) There has been interest expressed in holding a few Family Splash Parties this summer. If you would like to host or attend please let us know and we will do our best to help you out. TGIFs are still every Friday . We are always looking for someone to host. Please call Joan Jones if you are interested (703-780-2965.) The Social Committee is always ready to welcome new members. We sponsor many adult and children's events throughout the year and we need your support to be successful. We look forward to your ideas, so please call either Gail (703-3607642) or Claudia (703-799-7690) if you are interested in being a part of the planning or just attending our meetings at the club on the second Monday of each month. The next meeting is Monday July 9, at 7:30 P.M.

12:00 PM 4:00 PM

Soda
Food

Beer
Sun
Games for all ages

Fun

The Beacon

page 6

Vol. 44, No.07

COMPLIMENTS OF:

Lohman and Associates Real Estate, LC The Right Broker CAN SAVE YOU Thousands!! Call DAVE LOHMAN @ 703-360-5292 Lohmanandassociates.com

Mount Vernon, VA 2007 Tide Chart

JUNE
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 0838H 0912H 0949H 1030H 0532L 0623L 0718L 0820L 0926L 1034L 1139L 1734H 0629H 0722H 0815H 0907H 0959H 1051H 0555H 0647L 0740L 0834L 0930L 1026L 1121L 1213L 0612H 0654H 0734H 0813H 1543L 1623L 1743L 1743L 1116H 1206H 1301H 1401H 1505H 1610H 1712H 1241L 1339L 1433L 1525L 1616L 1704L 1751L 1143H 1237H 1331H 1427H 1523H 1618H 1711H 1802H 1303L 1350L 1435L 1518L 2122H 2159H 2315H 2315H 1824L 1907L 1952L 2040L 2131L 2226L 2324L 1812H 1909H 2003H 2056H 2147H 2238H 2330H 1836L 1919L 2002L 2043L 2125L 2208L 2255L 2345L 1850H 1934H 2016H 2056H

JULY
0852H 0933H 1016H 1101H 0614L 0710L 0810L 0914L 1020L 1125L 0515H 0614H 0710H 0803H 0855H 0944H 1031H 1117H 0618L 0705L 0754L 0847L 0942L 1039L 1135L 0532H 0620H 0706H 0751H 0833H 0916H 1559L 1640L 1720L 1800L 1150H 1244H 1342H 1445H 1551H 1656H 1225L 1323L 1416L 1506L 1554L 1638L 1720L 1758L 1203H 1251H 1341H 1435H 1532H 1429H 1724H 1228L 1318L 1405L 1449L 1531L 1611L 2134H 2212H 2253H 2338H 1841L 1924L 2011L 2103L 2201L 2305L 1757H 1854H 1948H 2039H 2128H 2216H 2302H 2348H 1834L 1907L 1941L 2019L 2105L 2200L 2300L 1815H 1902H 1946H 2027H 2107H 2148H

AUGUST
1000H 1045H 0602L 0658L 0758L 0901L 1006L 1109L 0503H 0604H 0701H 0753H 0841H 0926H 1008H 1049H 1129H 0628L 0711L 0759L 0853L 0953L 1054L 1151L 0547H 0639H 0726H 0811H 0856H 0941H 1027H 1651L 1731L 1134H 1226H 1325H 1429H 1537H 1643H 1209L 1305L 1356L 1444L 1527L 1607L 1643L 1715L 1743L 1210H 1255H 1344H 1442H 1543H 1643H 1738H 1243L 1331L 1416L 1458L 1539L 1619L 1700L 2230H 2314H 1812L 1856L 1946L 2043L 2149L 2257L 1744H 1841H 1934H 2022H 2108H 2151H 2232H 2311H 2349H 1810L 1843L 1925L 1816L 2116L 2223L 2332L 1827H 1913H 1957H 2039H 2121H 2204H 2249H

FREE NOTARY SERVICE FOR MVYC MEMBERS

Engine Diagnosis & Repair Equipment Upgrades 12v & 120v Electrical Service Fiberglass Fabrication & Repair Spring Commissioning

Call or E-mail John today: 202-210-9331/john@dontstopmarine.com

www.dontstopmarine.com
The Beacon page 7 Vol. 44, No.07

(Photos by Russel Poe)

Remaining 2007 MVYC Swim Team Schedule

Date Saturday, June 30th Wednesday, July 4th Saturday, July 7th Sunday, July 8th Saturday, July 14th Tuesday, July 17th Saturday, July 21st Saturday, July 28th Time Event Location 8:30 AM Dual Meet 3 Springfield 12:00 PM Fourth of July Party MVYC 8:30 AM Dual Meet 4 Evergreen 9:00 AM Relay Carnival Country Club of Fairfax 8:00 AM Dual Meet 5 vs. Hidden Creek MVYC No Practice Kings Dominion Day 8:30 AM Dual Meet 6 Riverbend AM Girls All Star Qualifiers Springfield PM Boys Sunday, July 29th 9:00 AM All Star Finals Westwood Sunday, July 29th 5:30 PM End of Season Awards Banquet MVYC * Dual Meets start at 9:00 AM. Participant warm-ups are at 8:00 AM for home meets and 8:30 AM for away meets.

The Beacon

page 8

Vol. 44, No.07

One Hot Night with Cold Fusion

MVYCs own, Cold Fusion, took to the stage for an evening in June for a night of fun and great music. They deserve a big round of applause for sharing their talent with all the clubs members!

July 2007
Sun 1 2
Club Closed in AM

***Changes to the calendar will be posted in the clubhouse and sent via email

Mon 3

Tue 4

Wed 5

Thu 6

Fri 7

Sat

MVYC Parade of Lights

TGIF

Alexandria Fireworks Display

9
Club Closed in AM Social Cmtee Mtg. 7:30pm

10

11

12

13
TGIF

14

15

16
Club Closed in AM Board Mtg 7:30pm

17

18

19

20
TGIF

21
PRYCA Float-in Port Kinsale

22
Port Kinsale

23

24

25

26

27
TGIF

28

PRYCA Float-in Club Closed in AM

29

30
Club Closed in AM

31

The Beacon

page 9

Vol. 44, No.07

The Mount Vernon Yacht Club 4817 Tarpon Ln Alexandria, VA 22309

Independence. Planning Ahead.

Independence means the financial security to live life the way youand your family choose. And long term care insurance plays a big role in making that a reality.

As a member of the Mount Vernon Yacht Club, you and your family are eligible for premium discounts on long-term care insurance from John Hancock Life Insurance Company.

For a complimentary consultation or further information, please contact: Faisal Haq, Financial Advisor (703) 287-7134 or fsyed-haq@jhnetwork.com

Other services provided include: Asset Management Estate Conservation Strategies Life Insurance Retirement Planning Business Planning Annuities

Long term care insurance is underwritten by John Hancock Life Insurance Company, Boston, MA 02117. Insurance products offered through John Hancock Life Insurance Company. Registered Representative/Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through Signator Investors, Inc., Member NASD, SIPC a Registered Investment Advisor. 8607 Westwood Center Drive, 3rd Floor, Vienna VA 22182 (703) 893-2550 180-02092007-13111055

The Beacon

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Vol. 44, No.07