WHAT'S GOING ON THIS SEASON!           .

 
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This newsletter is so full of great content that I'll be brief with my "Tips" for this issue.  Last week I was sitting in traffic in Buckhead, a unique experience for many of you I'm sure, and I couldn't help but make the following observations.  As pedestrians were passing one another on the sidewalk, many would make eye contact and occasionally a verbal exchange of greeting was shared.  Each person appeared to possess a "Personal Space", a distance around themselves that when accidentally invaded by others, often an apology for intrusion was offered.  It's sort of a magical zone each of us have that provides us separation , comfort and safety.  I recall that this same behavior often occurs in department stores and at social functions as well. 

As the traffic inched forward I also gave thought to how when those same friendly, kind and considerate people were driving a a skate board, car, bike or even a boat that the rules seemed to no longer apply.  In fact quite the opposite seems to be the rule in many cases.  It's almost like the vehicle becomes our "Space", but instead of apologizing for invading the "Space" of others, the behavior often becomes one of exerting ones presence at the expense of the space of others.  The polite exchange and acknowledging eye contact take on a whole different meaning.  Drivers dart bolding and uncaringly around others whenever any space exists, often without seeking permission or acknowledging appreciation for the courtesy, if you can call it that.

I'm sure psychologists have a name for this behavior and even an explanation for it's purpose, but to me it seems a great contradiction.  A human on the street exhibits politeness, yet in a moving vehicle often exhibits aggression. I know this is not 100% true, but enough for me to ponder.  Carrying that research one step further I realize that in boating, those under power are often more aggressive than those under sail.  Again I find this intriguing, not 100% true, but enough to ponder.  Those under power are "Goal" oriented in pursuit of a destination yet they don't really appear to be all that relaxed during their "Recreational Pursuit".  They're in a hurry and usually cut someone off in the process as they hurry along toward their destination.  At the next red light I asked myself, what is so innately different about the sport of sailing, or is it just the sort of people that the sport attracts.  Is it the cart or the horse, the chicken or the egg that makes the difference.

When I go sailing I observe the following.  I'm not really in a hurry.  I don't really have to even get the sails up to enjoy myself.  I don't have to go fast, but it's usually more fun when I do.  Just the motion of the boat is different than that of a power boat.  I'm not here to sell sailing over power boating because I certainly enjoy both but what I do notice is that my objectives are different. As a sailor, even when I do go power boating, my attitude, goals and expectations are different.  Why is this?

Sailing is different.  Does it change our attitude or are people with a certain disposition attracted to sailing?   Since I do both, I think that sailing changes you.  I've introduce so many folks to sailing over the past two decades, I think I observe the transition in other people too.  Interest, huh? Next time you have some spare time, give thought about how you choose to spend it. There's an interesting transformation in those who go sailing.  It begins when you park the car and walk toward the docks and it takes full affect the minute you untie the lines and cast off.  It removes you from the issues back home or in the office.  It's and escape to nature.  By the time you return to the car, you've changed.  You're renewed.    Next time you need a change go catch a breeze somewhere.  I'm likely already there, ahead of you!

Tickets Please, Tickets!
We have been feverishly testing our newest internet web feature enhancements scheduled for release within the next month to enable online web registration for classes and charge card processing.  Although this feature will not become widely available until January, what is new are the use of "Admission Tickets" which will be required for participation in all classes and outings.  Your "Admission Ticket" will be your proof of registration and payment. Your "Admission Ticket" will be emailed to you a week prior to your class. Showing up at a class or an outing without it may cause you to be denied entry.  Not only does your "Admission Ticket" remind you of your appointment, place and time for your class, but it will become your proof of payment when online web charge card processing becomes available, SO DON'T LEAVE HOME WITHOUT IT! It is imperative that when you change your internet service providers, that you update our records with your new email addresses which we become key to timely receipt of your "Admission Tickets".
12 Volt Electrical Systems
	Ever wondered how a boat's electrical system "Really" works?  This new class discusses electrical theory as well as trouble shooting techniques.   Students will construct a typical electrical circuit complete with all the options found on a typical boat including soldering the actual connections.   Join us on Sunday November 6th 11-5 for this new class. Seats are limited for this new class                   and registration is "First Come, First Served"

SWEAT SHIRTS (with Windsong Logo on Front) Taking PREORDERS Now! Order Placed Before 11/11/05: Silk Screen Logo Shirts - $30   Orders Placed After 11/11/05: Silk Screen Logo Shirts - $35   Available Colors: Dark Navy, White, Grey.
These are the best fall and spring sailing apparel because they keep your ears warm while allowing you to hear!

FOR SALE!  GOT SOMETHING TO SELL?  Try Our For Sale New Site Free.
Although we intend to limit items for sale to our student members, we will consider items submitted from the general public as well.  We'll play it by ear to see how it goes.  Just remember to let us know when the item is sold so that we can keep our web site current.  So here's the link Items For Sale.

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	Friends don't let their friends go through life without experiencing sailing! Invite someone to join you today!

PLEASE, REACH OUT AND TOUCH US,                 We're listening!!

Many times students' suggestions are implemented on the spot!  We pride ourselves in our customer service and attention to the needs of our students. If you have thoughts or ideas, drop us a line or give us a call.  All things are possible; you simply need to ask. 

Thanks!
I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all our students for their loyal support through the season(s) and encourage everyone to bring one new friend along each year as you sail.  As we grow and expand our operation, we want to make our products and services available to all who may be interested, but some one has to make the introduction.  Share the love of your sport with those who may be interested in our unique collection of programs. You'll be glad you did and so will they!