Commodore's Column - November 2009

By Tom Sokoloski
Catalina 36 International Association

Changes, Changes, Changes…

It’s hard to believe that it has been almost three years since I assumed the role of Commodore. It seems like it was yesterday, yet it also feels so long ago. I don’t feel any older, and I certainly don’t feel any wiser, but the calendar argues at least one of those points. Many things have changed in the past three years. Probably the biggest change over that time period (at least in how it impacts C36IA) is that the Catalina 36 is no longer in production. 2305 hulls were made over a span of 24+ years, making it one of the most successful and popular sailboats of its size in history. Another change is that Catalina Yachts has moved all of its production from Woodland Hills, CA to its Largo, FL facility. C36IA has recently experienced a number of changes, too. After many years of answering hundreds of owner questions, our two Tech Editors, Tom Senator and Chooch Jewell, have stepped aside. Personal and business time pressures reluctantly made them do so. Taking their places are two very knowledgeable members, Steve Frost for the MkI, and Larry Brandt for the MkII. Steve sails Cepheus Dream (#825) out of Alameda, CA, and Larry sails High Flight (#2109) out of Portland, OR. Please join me in thanking Tom and Chooch for their many years of service to the members of C36IA, and in welcoming Steve and Larry. I know they will do a great job. Their contact info is found elsewhere in this issue.
On a more personal note, after 18 years of loving ownership, Julandra has been sold. This past summer Sue and I purchased a C400. It needed lots of work, and the project list is down to a page and a half, but isn’t that part of the fun of owning a boat? For this reason (and also because it is good for every organization to get new blood and fresh ideas on a regular basis), I will be stepping down as Commodore of C36IA at the end of this year. I will continue with C36IA as Past Commodore, and help out however I can. The very capable Chic Lasser will be taking over as Commodore. It was one of Chic’s ideas to start JibSheet, the E-Newsletter exclusively for C36IA members, and I know he has a bunch more of them up his sleeve. I also know the Association will flourish under his leadership. It has truly been an honor to serve as your Commodore, and the Catalina 36 will always hold a very dear spot in my heart.
Fair Winds,

Tom Sokoloski