This is the weirdest year ever, isn't it? Never has our country or world experienced a set of events like what we are experiencing now. I keep thinking our little boating club has found its way into a Stephen King novel. But so far, so good. We have had to cancel some things and postpone others, but we are relatively untouched so far—and we really want to keep it that way.
The good news: Eugene Yacht Club is open. Lane County is in Phase 2 of the Governor's step-by-step plan to move toward normalcy which is allowing us to do a few things, though not as much as we'd like. We are encouraging members to come out and visit the club, maybe even go sailing. But be aware that the clubhouse, restrooms, and playground remain closed, and club-owned boats are not available for use. Even with these limitations, EYC is one of the best solutions for cabin fever right now. We just ask that everyone behave responsibly and use good judgement. Bring your own food and drink, use your own equipment, and as always, remember your sunscreen.
The bad news is that we have had to cancel basically all our social activities. There are almost no group events left on the schedule. This includes EYC defining events like Sail School, the July 4th Celebration, Concert by the Lake, Potlucks and General Membership Meetings, and pretty much all the racing. It is heartbreaking for a social club like ours to not do social events, but keeping everyone safe has to take precedence.
The Junior Fleet is trying to figure out how to do some activities that are safe. Chris Thomas and Janell Skeen will be in contact with the juniors when they get it figured out. If you are not sure if you or your junior sailor are on that mailing list, contact Chris or Janell.
The virus has not cancelled required maintenance, and so there are plenty of work party projects to do. If you want to get some hours in, please contact Marji Clune and she will schedule you for some solo or very small group projects. A couple of guys have figured out that doing work party in the nice summer weather is preferable to doing the same job earlier in the year in the cold rain. And I will remind you that the Board has decided to lump your required work party for 2020 in with 2021 and reduce the total to 20 hours. Which means everyone has until July 31, 2021 to get those 20 hours in.
My insurance experts tell me that with rising unemployment theft is up nationwide. Please take care to protect the things you keep on club grounds. If you get a chance to mow around your boat or trailer, please do so. We are not requiring it this year, but it would be a big help.
And please pay your bill. The virus hasn't cancelled the club's bills either.