Commodore Bit

Strewth! Time for the autumn newsletter already. It seems as if I only just gave Richard the copy for the summer one. Where did the last 3 months go? And what do I have to tell you about this time around?

Firstly, it was with great sadness that we heard of the death of Barry Jones brother Bob. Although not a member of AQSC Bob was a friend and fellow sailor who we saw from time to time. Our condolences go to his wife and family and especially Barry and Margaret.

Secondly, congratulations to the AQSC team for winning the Mid Thames Trophy. This annual event was held at Staines SC. We have come second for the last two or three years running so this was quite an achievement. Well done to all concerned! Hopefully someone is going to write an article about it.

Pat Halling and friends provided a memorable musical evening at the club on 19 September. Although strictly not an AQSC event it was highly enjoyable and our sincere thanks go to Pat, Ann and the other members of the string quartet who performed during the evening.

Thanks also to Gus and Eunice Colletta for their 'Taste of Italy' night which was held in the clubhouse on 9 October. Gus and Eunice provided a magnificent sit down meal accompanied by Italian music. All that was needed was a couple of Gondolas bobbing on the club moorings outside.

I guess a key thing I need to explain about is the information sheet included with this edition of 'The Main Sheet'. This was prepared by Hampton S.C. in con-junction with The Met and Surrey Police and details whom to contact if you experience, or see, misbehaviour on or near the River Thames at Hampton or Molesey. It includes contact telephone numbers for both Forces and an email address.

Members should also be aware that a disposable camera is now available in the AQSC bar to photograph any people or incidents giving cause for concern close to our club. Please keep the pamphlet handy, one will also be posted on the club notice board, so that you can take the appropriate action should the need arise. This approach to anti-social behaviour has already paid dividends down at the Hampton basin and the Police are keen to expand the number of people who know what to do should the necessity arise.

The next thing I need to talk about is the annual club dinner and the AGM. The annual dinner will be held in the club house on the evening of Saturday 20 November and is simply a 'not to be missed' occasion. Ladies usually wear cocktail dresses or posh frocks. The gentlemen, dinner jackets or lounge suits. Dinner is prepared by an outside catering company and to date this has always been an excellent evening. So get your ticket requirements in as soon as you receive your menu and booking forms. Lyn & I will be on holiday at this time but your Vice Commodore Nigel Knowles will be hosting the evening ably supported by the club's Social Secretary Diana Carpenter.

The club's AGM, prize giving and end of season party will be held on the evening of Saturday 4 December. This is arguably the most important evening of the year. Why? Because all eligible (i.e. Full) club members have the responsibility for electing the flag officers and committee members who will run Aquarius S.C. for the next year. The serious part of the evening, which we try to keep short and sweet, is followed by a light hearted prize giving and end of season party.

On the domestic front I urge you to take 'laying-up' your dinghies seriously. An extraordinary amount of damage can be caused to craft that are not securely picketed over the winter months. Weather covers also need to be checked to ensure that they won't collapse inwards. Have you ever seen the damage to a hull that a small amount of frozen water can do?

Finally, don't forget our annual trip to Kempton Park on 6 November for their unrivalled fireworks display. Discounted tickets, prior to the night, can be ordered through Richard Cannon on 01932 786636, and a limited number of tickets for next years Richmond Theatre Christmas pantomime Dick Whittington have been reserved. Please contact Diana Carpenter on 020 8393 8029 if you wish to go on the evening of 13 January 2005. Tickets cost £13.50 each.

To end I would like to sincerely thank all my fellow committee members for their hard work this year. I feel that the club has moved forward and this, in no small part, has only been possible with their agreement, enthusiasm and assistance. Thanks guys, great job!

Mike (The Commodore) Baker