The weather has changed and all but three of our members boats have exited the mooring field.

The 10 new 420 sailboats, which the high school sailing program has been using, are due to start their trek to winter housing in the casino, the club dingy is awaiting Bill Hunt’s last use as he takes Firebolt to the trailer, and there is one J-22 left at its mooring.

Bill used the new GinPole to un-step his mast so we know that it works and is ready for the 2015 season.

Tonight (Thursday, Oct. 23) is the first of the winter season cocktail parties. It is at the home of George Ross and Tracy Robinson on Southport. Bring your own refreshment is the standard rule as well as hors d’oeuvres to share.

Directions and parking instructions have been emailed by the office. Glasses, ice and mixers are provided by the hosts.

It is always a good idea to carry a flashlight to these events as the early sunset and unfamiliar territory can make finding your car a challenge on the way home.

Thank heavens the Southport Bridge closings have ended so nobody will get stuck on Southport for the night (unless you live there!).

Louise tells me that the winter party plans are now complete. November will be celebrated at the home of Vice Commodore Eric and Sandi Hakanson on the 20th of that month. The December Christmas party will be at the home of Past Commodore Marianne Reynolds on Dec. 18. On Jan. 22, we will meet at Barbie Eldred’s home in East Boothbay. February will be a first with a joint party in Key West and on Southport!

The Key West Reunion party will be linked by video and audio with a synchronized event at the PC’s Holmes residence on Southport (stay tuned for more details).

In March, new members Carole and David Hamm will be the hosts, and on April 23, PC Bob and Linda McArtor will host the closing event before we get back to the clubhouse in May.