Better Iceboating Opportunities Through Chemistry
Does anyone know where we might be able to get 900 million gallons of heavy water? It freezes at 39 degrees Fahrenheit and would be enough to fill a 500-acre pond to about five feet deep. That would surely extend our season on both ends. Start working on your deuterium-based steel runners for peak performance.
Spring is only days old and we are looking to make the most of it with some sailing. Some of the best iceboating days I have had over the years have been in spring-like or officially spring days.
After last week’s great Pushaw turnout and the CIBC’s successful completion of the Century Race (100 miles), the next venue rumors are again flying about where the next sailing opportunity will be. Moosehead Lake in Maine as well as locations in the greater Montreal area. The Canadian locations are typically just north of the St Lawrence River. Even though you will need a passport it is not that far and for some of us closer than domestic options.
Note, the above are just rumors at this point and will need to be confirmed over the next couple of days.
Don’t put your gear away just yet, as there is more hardwater sailing to be had.
Our regular call will be at 6:30 tonight. Not sure we will have any definitive weekend plans but show up to discuss.
Think Ice and Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Opportunity Whispers From The Pine Tree State
It’s been quite a while, since I have been able to press fingers to keys with something hopeful. Well, there is a whisper coming out of the PIne Tree State. Bill Bichholz has reported potentially favorable conditions on Pushaw Lake. That name has been tossed around over the last few weeks during our open weekly discussions and reported on both here and on the Chickawaukie site.
At this point one should read what Bill’s condition report on Pushaw. I know that sometimes the best ice times, like skiing, are often the first tracks. Taking a chance and being rewarded is a rewarding and unique natural sailing experience.
Check out the Pushaw Report: ON post and decide if and when you want to travel North. More updates promised so check iceboat.me for the latest, including where people are considering staying.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Ice Opporutnities Down The Road
Typically the news of a winter storm is exciting, as they are all part of the winter experience and contribute to the freeze cycles of our lakes. The snow is for skiing, but we have not gotten in much local sailing this season.
Our ongoing mantra, “we are not done yet” or “I am not done yet” continues to ring. Black Ice prospects are gone, but there is some grey ice, in our near future.
According to fresh local intel, only a few inches of the white stuff fell on lakes surrounding Bangor. Purshaw Lake is often a first-ice mecca. The lake is outside Old Town, Maine home of Old Town Canoe. I stopped by to visit my canoe’s birthplace the last time I was there. I was not the only tourist doing the same thing and bet many readers of this piece have a canoe or two of the same heritage.
Why is this important? Looking across and a little outside our region the potential sweet spots look to be around Bangor and perhaps Pushaw in a few days. This is outside many people usual travel zones but this year has been a challenge and iceboat fever is raging.
Block some travel time, coordinate with travel partner(s), and stand at the ready for the call. It will likely be last minute and any day of the week, so have your travel bag ready.
We will again gather on the phone to help coordinate our next ice pilgrimage.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
The Season is Not Over Yet
Greetings all. Even though many of our usual haunts are in liquid, slush, or in the snowed-in state the season is not over just yet and we continue to keep our eyes on venues to the north.
No current prospects at the moment but keep your gear ready to load up and hit the road.
The Lord of the Ice is keeping a watchful eye and looking to welcome us back to sailing.
There will be a call tonight for anyone who wants to attend at 5:30 pm the usual number.
Keep the faith and Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Sailing Museum Newport – Iceboating Lecture Friday (3/10)
All,
There is an iceboating lecture at The Sailing Museum in Newport, RI this Friday. The lecture is in support of Don Sanford’s book On The Lake about lake Mendota. Mendota is the quintessential iceboating lake featured in many iceboating images complete with the Wisconson State Capital on the south shore. lecture details https://thesailingmuseum.org/expert-in-the-museum-series-iceboating-with-don-sanford/
Expert in The Museum Series
Join us Friday, March 10th from 1-4 and Meet Iceboating Expert Don Sanford!
Visit The Sailing Museum on Friday, March 10th between 1-4 PM and hear about the thrills of hardwater sailing from avid iceboater and local legend, Don Sanford!
About The Expert:
Don Sanford grew up in Syracuse NY. His summers were spent at the family camp on nearby Cazenovia Lake where he first developed his interest in boats and social history. Don has a degree communications studies from the State University of New York at Oswego and a M.S. from Syracuse University in radio, television, and film. He moved with his wife Barb to Madison, WI in 1976 to take a job as a production manager with Wisconsin Public Television.
A sailor and iceboater, Don spends his free time racing sailboats and iceboats in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. He is a member of the Four Lakes Ice Yacht Club, past commodore of the Mendota Yacht Club, the International Nite Ice Yacht Class Association and the International Skeeter Iceboat Association.
His book, On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota tells the story of the people, places, and events that have shaped the lakeshore as we know it today. Published in 2015 it combines social, geological, technological, cultural, maritime and economic history in 340 illustrated pages.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. Let me know how it was if you go.
Waiting For The Thaw/Freeze Cycle
With our recent snowfall, the scent of winter has returned, at least to the more southern parts of New England. I grew up in the NY Metro area, where people typically wouldn’t think about winter sports until there was local snow on the ground, even though winter was in full swing in the Adirondack, Green, and White Mountain areas. That being said, it is still cold up north, and our ice lies beneath the snow. The ice is just waiting to be exposed, resurfaced, and ready for us to sail.
Unfortunately, no matter which direction you look, there is no known ice to play on, at the moment. Even our most hardened hodophiles are staying put and tending to their equipment, shifting to snow sports, or catching up on things that need doing for the weekend.
It has been a challenging winter, but we are NOT DONE YET. Remember, late winter storms happen, and we usually return to our lakes after a thaw and freeze cycle.
Stay tuned, we are watching for the thaw which will come soon.
Our regular ice chat will take place tonight at 6:30 pm as usual. Reach out to me if you have a specific topic, or just come on and bring it up yourself. Email me if you have forgotten the #.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
After Storm Look
As hyped over the past week and seen in the NOAA snowfall graphic, the snow did come and has exited or will exit soon. The system has left a mess in its wake and covered up the ice we had been playing on or intend to use soon.
All is not lost. Remember snow blocks and or reflects UV radiation preserving the ice below for another day. Also, a potential snow slushy freeze-up has been reported on Winni but the snow needs to stop and more freeze time needs to pass before any verification can be made.
NOAA data aside how much snow did you get? Chime in with location and depth measurements.
Take the snowfall survey below or better yet dial in 6:30 pm tonight and let us know what you got along with some encouraging words from others eagerly waiting for sailable ice NEIYA members. Talk at 6:30 tonight
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
NEIYA East / West Weekend Split
Pesidents Day weekend saw NEIYA members congregating in the east (Jefferson & Camden Maine) and to the west just outside of New England in the Attarondacks on Schroon Lake, NY.
It was all DNs with a heavy concentration of racers ushered in by Race Chair T with an assist from our secretary Binder. Multiple scratch races were held in a flaky breeze that filled in towards the end of the day. the last couple of starts had some rather lively gusts that pegged the fun meter and kept us on our toes. Remember you do not have to be nationally ranked, to sail with or near the DN race crowd. All Sailing takes a lifetime to master and we can all use a few go-fast tuning and boat handling tips. So don’t be shy sharing knowledge is built into iceboating at all levels. As the cover photo shows, most of us sailed till the sun touched the trees on the western shore. A great time was had by all.
Thanks to the Lake Saratoga iceboat group for drawing us all west.
As previously reported there was sailing in Maine On Damariscotta and Maguntacook let by Bill Buchholz. Since I didn’t get to Maine, catch up on happenings at iceboat.me.
There may have been some additional ice in the region but it was not thoroughly scouted and with the limited resource, we all congregated where we did. This is a reminder that we need human intel. Satellite images are nice but skilled scouting is a must before we draw people together to sail.
But for the incoming white stuff we are seeing some good prospects for the weekend. Just need to see what this system brings.
Remember our weekly conference call is Thursday 6:30 pm. Not sure any weekend call can be made at that time but at least we can get a baseline of how things looked before the white stuff started dropping.
Think Ice and Sail Fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Ice Thoughts For the Week
Following up on Jay’s important words of caution, Take Heed! The above images were generated via AI using htps://openai.com/dall-e-2/ part of the ChatGPT website. I requested art for lake ice with a danger thin ice sign in watercolor. It did pretty well at borrowing elements from previous works created by humans. While the images are so-called AI-generated, the DANGERS are VERY REAL.
I wish I had great news to share but again the message is to wait and see. As we are all aware it has been a little warm lately even up north. This includes Champlain and Winnipausakee, Squam, etc. any other place you might have thought to look this time of year. In general, people are seeing ice coverage but it has not been cold enough to harden and thicken. Don’t be fooled, these surfaces are not stable and require some colder weather before being further assessed. Possibilities may abound when the cold returns.
We have two positive notes. Bill and the folks in Maine are hopeful and will share what they find before the weekend on iceboat.me. The other, as previously posted by T, some racing in the Montreal Canada area. Unfortunately, they are waiting to confirm the impact of the snow moving through the entire region. As always and be on the ready when the call comes.
We will have our regular call tonight at 6:30 pm. Not much ice so discussion topics are open. Be sure to call on time as we will get right into it. The line will remain open while there are things to discuss.
Think Ice
Johh
DN5023
John@neiiya.org
P.S. Bring your thoughts forward tonight.
Sacandaga Comes Through
Unfortunately, the timing and conditions did not allow us to hold the NEIYA Vintage Returns event this weekend. With all our planing fresh in minds Jay Whitehair and I could not pass up the opportunity to see what the Hudson River and NJ guys brought to Sacandaga.
Conditions on Sacandaga were the best that any of us could find and we were lucky to be on the ice at all. The rest of the NEIYA gang found sailable conditions on Damariscotta in Maine.
There was a great collection of stern steerers, and plenty of front steering craft all out to play. Spirits were high and the hospitality and shared interest in iceboats ruled the day.
Don’t put your boats away just yet we are monitoring several locations for next week and hope to get in our Vintage event plus a bit of racing. Remember racing is not just for DNs and the iceboat rivalry between NJ and the Hudson is over a century old.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Sacandaga Redux
While we postponed our Vintage Returns The guys from NJ and the Hudson set up and going to give it a go in the morning.
Come on up to sail. Come to watch. Come to talk about iceboating. See you there.
Think Ice
John
Dnus5023
john@neiya.com
Vintage Returns On Hold For a Week
Greetings all. Sorry for the false start and stop but we all know how hard this year has been. Due to uncertain conditions on Sacandaga and the lateness of the call we will push the event out another week. We have eyes watching a few locations on Champlain and believe it will improve over the week.
The western side of Sacandaga is being scouted and the initial reports are positive. Scouting parties come from the ranks of stern steerers, DNs and other classes. Not sure what the final conclusion will be but keep this lake in mind if you want to sail this weekend.
This has indeed been a tough year and we have had trouble with most of our standard lakes and ponds. I am placing the blam on la niña traviesa.
More info on sailing and racing later today.
Think Ice and regañar a la niña for putting us through all this,
John
DN5023
john@neiyalorg
P.S. Let me know if you have any ice info
Sailing This Weekend
Greetings all in season I do not typically get in my car in the morning and see the dashboard temp at 54 degrees on February 10th. The rodent from Pennsylvania really got it wrong this time or maybe he knows something we don’t. Wait and see is the answer.
We had thirteen people on our call last night and reporting from all around our region is not great. There is still ice but there are issues in most places with the exception of what our friends are sailing in Maine. There is however some hope for Graet Sacandage lake Broadabin, NY just west of Saratoga Springs and Saratoga Lake. We have eyes headed to both lakes. If Sacandaga pans out we will be calling the Vintage.
I know this is not much notice but with the disappointing season, we need to make whatever we can out of it.
As to New England sailing it is Maine all the way so keep an eye on Bill’s reports on iceboat.me.
We have some hopeful reports from Champlain that could be good for next weekend.
Next update sometime after noon today.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Let’s Get out and Sail
The scent of urgency is in the air. While is over a month away, and we typically sail after March 21st, this year’s La Niña has presented some challenging conditions. Even those who racked up a large number of sailing days have noted the difference in ice structure across all our region.
We have all been blasted with sensationalized weather news on a daily basis which really offers very little understanding and contributes to panicked behavior. There is a whole lot more going on behind our recurring El Nino and La Ñina patterns. I vound this and other Severe Weather Europe articles very interesting and im sure many of you will as well. https://www.severe-weather.eu/global-weather/sudden-stratospheric-warming-polar-vortex-collapse-effect-forecast-february-march-united-states-europe-fa/
Regardless of weather sensationalism or geek-level weather coverage, we still have ice and we will be out iceboating this weekend and in the remaining days of winter. We have miles of cruising to be done, laps to turn, and the “Vintage Returns” event to hold. We are currently looking at a few options in Maine, New Hampshire, New York, and maybe Vermont. Sorry people looks lke MA is out as well as CT which hardly started and RI never had a chance this year. Information on where there might be sailing for the weekend will be published tomorrow night after our weekly open ice call at 6:30 PM. The Ice call is your chance to hear it first and give you more time to reach out to friends and plan.
No matter what the ice does or doesn’t do, we will be putting on an all are welcome spring gathering. The when and where details will follow in a few weeks.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Sabago Didn’t Tip
Well, it just didn’t happen last night. Plenty of cold in the past 24 hours but the wind blew all night. There will be no big ice in the near term. Thanks to Dave Fortier for getting out earlier this morning in the negative air to check Segabo. Unfortunately, similar conditions stretched across our region.
Waiting on other regional findings. If you are thinking of taking a weekday off this might be a good week for it. That’s all for now.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
A Cold Momentum Moves Over Our Lakes
Last night 16 NEIYA members huddled on the phone and there was an air of anticipation. The simple reason, is it’s getting cold, real cold. Not that I need to remind anyone has been talking about the temperature drop for a week. My standard response was “isn’t it wonderful?”
Like many things in nature, there is the power of momentum and tipping points. This season’s momentum has been in a slower build and we are only approaching the tipping (ice) point now. I can say that we are behind the momentum curve and looking to cross the tipping point.
Randy Rice reported on Winnipausakee up in the center harbor area. There is skatable ice but the whole center of the lake is open and likely. Lets see what the weekend brings. There are similar open center issues around NH
Bill Buchholz reported that Jordan Bay on Sebago Lake has skimmed over and was hovering around two inches of ice. With the cold since last night we could be in business. Jordan Bay has given us miles of black ice in the past let’s hope this pans out. We should hear word from scouts by tomorrow afternoon and will report back here on the conditions.
Bob S is keeping a watchful eye on Quaboag but nothing at the moment. More after the weekend.
I am sure that tonight’s cold will bring a usable plate. Take the long way home tomorrow. Run by your favorite local lake pond and have a look. Let us know what you find no matter the size. Maybe just a few people get out but let people know. We have our eye on the next few weeks to pull off the “Vintage Return” event and get in some local racing and cruising.
Next update Saturday Afternoon.
Be ready to roll when we cross the tipping point and Think Ice,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
A Deep Freeze is Coming
The New England contingent has returned from a successful run at the DN Worlds (aka Gold Cup) and North American Championships.
Congratulations to Matt Srubble on winning both the Worlds and North Americans. Team NE finished strongly with James T. Thieler and Chad Atkins finishing eighth and tenth respectively in the Worlds. Also of note, was Chris Gordon with a ninth in the Silver Fleet and Jay Whitehair, Sean Healey, and Milo Fleming with a second, sixth, and eighth respectively in the Bronze fleet. Full DN Worlds results here http://iceresults.org/dn/2023worlds.html
Team NE shined even brighter in the North American Championships. T and Chad took second and third in Gold. Jay Whitehair turned in an impressive 13th in his first Golf Fleet outing. Full DN NA results here https://iceresults.org/dn/2023nas.html
Coincidence or not, it would appear that the massive New England contingent brought the cold weather back with them from Lake Kegonsa in Stoughton WI. I think I can say that winter is finally arriving.
Randy Rice was scouting the top part of Lake Winnipesaukee out of Leavitt Beach. Things are looking positive but require another look. More on that in the days to come.
Last week’s club ice call was sparsely attended but I guess people kind of understand there was not much to talk about. this week is a different story. Don’t miss it at 6:30pm Thursday, February 2nd. We should have Ice scouts from around New England on the line. If you have forgotten the number it is published in the member’s section https://theneiya.org/members-only-pages/ If you missed my email with the password just reach out to me.
Looking forward to sailing with everyone real soon. Remember we are dealing with mostly new ice and since this is a recent freeze be extremely cautious. DO NOT go alone! Sail heads up till you are personally confident about the conditions. Dial into the call on Thursday if you are looking for someone to scout or sail with.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
The Season is Just Getting Started
As the seasoned know patience and perseverance are the marks of an iceboater. While the last couple of weeks have been a challenge, the season is far from over. And as I said to a veteran of many seasons Eben Whitcomb just yesterday “We will sail”.
We have all been following Karen’s team NEIYA’s travels and triumphs. Congratulations Karen! I think that Karen, T and other intrepid NEIYA racers have brought ice back while traveling the OH and PA Turnpikes east.
Temperatures have been falling and there are reports coming in from Maine, NH etc that things are looking good for the near future. We of course have some
With our sailing theaters setting up to sail I would like to try something new. We will have a group call at 6:30 PM tomorrow (Thursday). All active members are welcome to call in to discuss current conditions and plan the days ahead or any other iceboating topic. We will have some of our seasoned ice checkers and others on hand. Watch your email later today for the call-in information. If you do not receive the invite email check your spam folder and if it really didn’t come email me at john@neiya.org. Remember if you are not a member in good standing you will not receive the invite.
Think Ice,
John
DN5023
john@neiya.org
Ice is Coming
All,
Bob S. checked in earlier today and noted that Quaboag Pond has skimmed over. That is good news for the more southern reaches of New England. While it is certainly not anywhere near safe yet, it is encouraging. And some will sail there this season I am sure.
Bob, thanks for checking in. We can’t do this without those that keep a watchful eye on the bodies of water throughout New England.
Stay tuned…
Think Ice,
John
News From Jeff @ The GWC
As relayed in one of the comments from yesterday. Sunrises and sunsets over the ice never grows old.
The great western challenge was without question the finest conditions held in recent memory. The Ice was 10 out of 10 everywhere. Miles of perfect black ice great breeze some chilli temp that moderate. Been to many of these and without question the best ever! Lot of racing and lots of tuning.
You missed a great season kickoff. If you didn’t go put it on next year’s calendar
Jeff kent
Descending on The Tune_Up Event This Saturday (11/26)
With the vintage Returns spirit, Ed Edwards sent in his latest project. The 1960ish barn find appears to be made of Sitka spruce. She is undergoing a partial rebuild and will be on display at this Saturday’s Tine-Up at Steve Lamb’s shop in Canton, MA.
Does the craft look familiar? Any work you have seen in the past? Maybe even worked or saw it being worked on.
Date: Saturday, November 26th
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location:Arthur C. Lamb Company 85 Jackson St, Canton, MA 02021
Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Google Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/3zuJS2G2Nm3BwLYs5
As mentioned previously we will have a collection of seasoned iceboaters on hand to assist the interested, new, and less seasoned iceboaters. Like other types of sailing it’s not hard to learn the basics but a lifetime to master. We are all in continuous learning mode.
Your Membership goes towards putting on events like the Tune-Up Please Pay Today
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
 |
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Looking forward to seeing everyone and the group collectivly helping new people get on the ice for the first time.
Think Ice,
John
Commodore, NEYA
DN5023
John@commodoret
P.S. Give me a shout if you have any questions and yes we still have room for one or more boats.
Calling All Would Be and New Iceboaters – Sat 11/26 Off-Ice Tune-Up
Calling all would be, newer iceboaters, those seasoned by many winters, and anyone with even a remote interest in iceboating this event is for you. As we have done in past years this is your opportunity to come out and talk to the seasoned and drink from the centuries of collective iceboat knowledge and experience.
It’s Thanksgiving weekend and a great excuse to slip out. Better yet bring your brother, brother/sister-in-law, other family members, or friends.
Have a craft you want to get on the ice? bring it down for a survey and we will help set it up with you. Please email me so we can be sure there is room and we have the appropriate experts on hand. Drag that old iceboat out of the rafters and come down. Don’t hesitate this is your year to fulfill a desire to sail faster than the wind.
We have a full Day of information and knowledge transfer
- Demonstrating plank construction techniques
- Right of Way Rules – VC Jay has a new set of model boats to demo the rules
- Racing for the beginner because going fast is always measured against someone else.
- Runner chock alignment techniques
- Runner Care
- Ice checking Round Table Discussion
Lunch and refreshments will be continuously served throughout the day by Linda. Chili dogs!
If you have any interest in iceboating this is the place to be on the 26th. The Iceboating welcome mat is out. Come on down.
Date: Saturday, November 26th
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Arthur C. Lamb Company Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Google Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/3zuJS2G2Nm3BwLYs5
Pay Your Dues – Please
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
We have a limited number of NEIYA Vintage Returns mugs left over from last month’s gathering for those who paid their dues (first come first served)
A few pictures from the last time we were together in the Lamb Shop.
The season is upon us
Think Ice,
Commodore, John Stanton
DN5023
john@neiya.org
P.S. Drop me an email if you are coming and especially if you are brining a boat to be set up and surveyed.
NEIYA 2022 Fall Swap, Lunch & Meeting Recap
Some 75 seasoned and would-be iceboaters gathered once again for new Engaland ice Yacht Association’s annual gathering which includes a swap meet, lunch, and annual meeting. There was equipment galore for any vintage craft. From state-of-the-art to vintage wooden spars as well as blades. There are a couple complete boats for any level of sailing and plenty of parts in the Classified section. Find your new to you iceboat and bring it to the Lamb Tune-up 11/26 (more below and to follow). We will be sure your are well on your way to sailing when the ice comes in.
The hit of the lot was VC Jay’s recent acquisition Blue Streak which was well preserved in a barn near Squam Lake but had not felt ice under her runners in many years. The Blue Streak and many other vintage classics will be hitting the ice again next year. More on the Vintage Returns Event to follow. Think about it while you’re sipping coffee from your NEIYA Vintage mug. Don’t have one? There are a few more mugs left over and available to current members at the Lamb Tune-Up on 11/26
Pay Your Dues – First Request
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Thanks to all those in the lot working hard to pass gear on to the next pilot. Henry is selling a complete competitive DN with just enough carbon fiber to eliminate equipment excuses on the course. It will be on the classified section soon and I bet it will be available at the Tune-Up for pick. Don’t forget Steve Duhamel of https://www.northwindiceboats.com/ has most anything you need to get your program up to speed. I still have two masts for sale. One CSI mast suitable for someone 200# or over and the other a stiffer one made at Hall Spars. Several people were looking at them. Now’s the time to work a deal. You know how to reach out to me.
Pay Your Dues – Second Request
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Shortly after herding everyone (almost) inside lunch was served followed by our usual agenda. Commodore John Stanton kicked things off with thank yous all around. Thanks to all those that helped make it happen including VC Jay, Secretary Karen, and Treasurer Bob and Henry Tompson Speedway inside connection. Special thanks to those that came early offering parts. Steve, Paul, Jeff, and everyone else dragging parts to sell. Thanks for your continued support, we can’t do it without you guys!
We all had a chance to say farewell to long time DNer and friend Jack Erickson. Jack sheet in and sail on black ice towards the horizon.
The meeting continued with reports from our Secretary, Treasurer and Race Chair “T”. His 2022 report was brief as we were not able to get any races completed but will surely have better luck this coming season. “T” also outlined the planned races which will include starts for older non gran-prix boats. So don’t have intimidated by the abundant display or carbon fiber as there is plenty of competition at every level. So make it a point to participate this coming season.
Official notice of the Vintage Returns event was announced followed by the event genesis and overview by Jay. More on this next week. The meeting next morphed into a round table discussion about Vintage Ice Yachts. Thanks to our panelists included Bill Buchholz, Charlie Silfvenius (aka Charlie S), George Neyssen and all others that participated in a lively and informative discussion on how to return an vintage craft to the ice.
Discussions continued regarding the already in place coordinating with vintage boat owners and area representatives from all over New England, Long Island NY, the majestic Hudson, and the Jersey Shore home of many classics.
The stage is set for a grand event that might even bring Jack Frost and Rocket back together again. The welcome mat is on the ice for any vintage craft. I know diesel prices are high but maybe some Mid-Western boats can come east to play?
The meeting was adjourned and people returned to the lot for another couple more hours of ice and boat talk.
Upcoming – Lamb Off-Ice Tune-up Sat, Nov 26th
Steve and Linda Lamb have once again graciously invited us back to the Arthur C Lamb shop for an Off-Ice Tune-up event The Off Ice Tune-up is back and scheduled for Saturday, November 26th.
If you have any interest in iceboating this is the place to be on the 26th. The Iceboating welcome mat is out. Come on down.
Date: Saturday, November 26th
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Arthur C. Lamb Company Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Google Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/3zuJS2G2Nm3BwLYs5
We have a full schedule of events but want to focus on the new iceboaters and Vintage crafts for looking to participate in next years event.. Struggling to figure it all out? Let us help you get your boat on the ice for the first time or first in a long time.
Calling all Newbies here is your chance to have even the questions you didn’t know to ask answered. Bring your boats down to be surveyed by a collective of easily 1000 years of iceboating experience. I have spoken to several of you personally at the swap meet and along the way so don’t procrastinate. Make it happen this season.
Other happenings during the day will be
- Demonstrating plank construction techniques
- Right of Way Rules
- Racing for the beginner because going fast is always measured against someone else.
- Runner chock alignment techniques
- Runner Care
- Ice checking Round Table Discussion
Pay Your Dues – Third Request and a Charm!
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Thanks to all those who attended it was a great gathering. It would not have been a success without you. Perhaps my wearing shorts set up the warm days that followed but we all know it will get cold soon enough. Predictions are for a La Niña cycle which means be ready to roll, even faster than usual as chaotic weather will follow fast. So get ready for the 2022-23 season and stay tuned for first ice coming to a northern pond somewhere. See you at Steve Lamb’s shop on the 26th.
Think Ice & Sail Fast,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. For those who might have missed the NOAA La Niña hyperlink https://www.weather.gov/iwx/la_nina Also some informative coverage from the European site severe-weather.eu – https://www.severe-weather.eu/tag/la-nina/
NEIYA 2022 Fall Swap, Lunch & Meeting Recap
Some 75 seasoned and would-be iceboaters gathered once again for new Engaland ice Yacht Association’s annual gathering which includes a swap meet, lunch, and annual meeting. There was equipment galore for any vintage craft. From state-of-the-art to vintage wooden spars as well as blades. There are a couple complete boats for any level of sailing and plenty of parts in the Classified section. Find your new to you iceboat and bring it to the Lamb Tune-up 11/26 (more below and to follow). We will be sure your are well on your way to sailing when the ice comes in.
The hit of the lot was VC Jay’s recent acquisition Blue Streak which was well preserved in a barn near Squam Lake but had not felt ice under her runners in many years. The Blue Streak and many other vintage classics will be hitting the ice again next year. More on the Vintage Returns Event to follow. Think about it while you’re sipping coffee from your NEIYA Vintage mug. Don’t have one? There are a few more mugs left over and available to current members at the Lamb Tune-Up on 11/26
Pay Your Dues – First Request
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Thanks to all those in the lot working hard to pass gear on to the next pilot. Henry is selling a complete competitive DN with just enough carbon fiber to eliminate equipment excuses on the course. It will be on the classified section soon and I bet it will be available at the Tune-Up for pick. Don’t forget Steve Duhamel of https://www.northwindiceboats.com/ has most anything you need to get your program up to speed. I still have two masts for sale. One CSI mast suitable for someone 200# or over and the other a stiffer one made at Hall Spars. Several people were looking at them. Now’s the time to work a deal. You know how to reach out to me.
Pay Your Dues – Second Request
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Shortly after herding everyone (almost) inside lunch was served followed by our usual agenda. Commodore John Stanton kicked things off with thank yous all around. Thanks to all those that helped make it happen including VC Jay, Secretary Karen, and Treasurer Bob and Henry Tompson Speedway inside connection. Special thanks to those that came early offering parts. Steve, Paul, Jeff, and everyone else dragging parts to sell. Thanks for your continued support, we can’t do it without you guys!
We all had a chance to say farewell to long time DNer and friend Jack Erickson. Jack sheet in and sail on black ice towards the horizon.
The meeting continued with reports from our Secretary, Treasurer and Race Chair “T”. His 2022 report was brief as we were not able to get any races completed but will surely have better luck this coming season. “T” also outlined the planned races which will include starts for older non gran-prix boats. So don’t have intimidated by the abundant display or carbon fiber as there is plenty of competition at every level. So make it a point to participate this coming season.
Official notice of the Vintage Returns event was announced followed by the event genesis and overview by Jay. More on this next week. The meeting next morphed into a round table discussion about Vintage Ice Yachts. Thanks to our panelists included Bill Buchholz, Charlie Silfvenius (aka Charlie S), George Neyssen and all others that participated in a lively and informative discussion on how to return an vintage craft to the ice.
Discussions continued regarding the already in place coordinating with vintage boat owners and area representatives from all over New England, Long Island NY, the majestic Hudson, and the Jersey Shore home of many classics.
The stage is set for a grand event that might even bring Jack Frost and Rocket back together again. The welcome mat is on the ice for any vintage craft. I know diesel prices are high but maybe some Mid-Western boats can come east to play?
The meeting was adjourned and people returned to the lot for another couple more hours of ice and boat talk.
Upcoming – Lamb Off-Ice Tune-up Sat, Nov 26th
Steve and Linda Lamb have once again graciously invited us back to the Arthur C Lamb shop for an Off-Ice Tune-up event The Off Ice Tune-up is back and scheduled for Saturday, November 26th.
If you have any interest in iceboating this is the place to be on the 26th. The Iceboating welcome mat is out. Come on down.
Date: Saturday, November 26th
Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Location: Arthur C. Lamb Company Refreshments: Served continuously throughout the day
Google Directions: https://goo.gl/maps/3zuJS2G2Nm3BwLYs5
We have a full schedule of events but want to focus on the new iceboaters and Vintage crafts for looking to participate in next years event.. Struggling to figure it all out? Let us help you get your boat on the ice for the first time or first in a long time.
Calling all Newbies here is your chance to have even the questions you didn’t know to ask answered. Bring your boats down to be surveyed by a collective of easily 1000 years of iceboating experience. I have spoken to several of you personally at the swap meet and along the way so don’t procrastinate. Make it happen this season.
Other happenings during the day will be
- Demonstrating plank construction techniques
- Right of Way Rules
- Racing for the beginner because going fast is always measured against someone else.
- Runner choke alignment techniques
- Runner Care
- Ice checking Round Table Discussion
Pay Your Dues – Third Request and a Charm!
| Dues Time | Price | |
| 2023 Membership | $30 |
|
| Mail in Form But Please Try Doing it Online PayPal Not Required | ||
Thanks to all those who attended it was a great gathering. It would not have been a success without you. Perhaps my wearing shorts set up the warm days that followed but we all know it will get cold soon enough. Predictions are for a La Niña cycle which means be ready to roll, even faster than usual as chaotic weather will follow fast. So get ready for the 2022-23 season and stay tuned for first ice coming to a northern pond somewhere. See you at Steve Lamb’s shop on the 26th.
Think Ice & Sail Fast,
John Stanton
Commodore, NEIYA
DN5023
John@neiya.org
P.S. For those who might have missed the NOAA La Niña hyperlink https://www.weather.gov/iwx/la_nina Also some informative coverage from the European site severe-weather.eu – https://www.severe-weather.eu/tag/la-nina/
New England Ice Yacht Association 