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Champipple
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
6855 Posts

Initially Posted - 04/24/2002 : 08:35:27

I am going to hop on the soap box for a minute so bear with me.
To begin with I took this from our swap meet section and I think it is an excellent idea.
<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
Skippers and Mr./Ms. Editor:
Let's start a new rule: Put your city and state location in any and all correspondence or swap meet, etc. What a waste of time searching and reading something of interest only to have no idea of where it is or where the "for sale" item is located. Not much fun getting hopped up over a trailer for sale to find out after many laborious back-and-forths that it's in Tacoma and I'm in Fl.
Respectfully Submitted, "At Ease"<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>

Why I am writing is because I noticed a newer trend with people responding with "check the tech tips", "look at the parts manual" and similar answers to questions a lot of us had when we first owned our boats. Check the archives is another one that of late is starting to rub me the wrong way. I too am guilty of this at times and it didn't hit me until I couldn't find what they were referring to.

The fact of the matter is that we have, for most people, a very good starter boat. The turnover in these things is higher than you will find in a beneteau 30. Because of this, there are always a lot of newbies hanging around, many of whom don't know where the tech tips are, or don't have the slightest clue what we are talking about.

Because of this, guys who have been around a while find we are answering the same questions. (again, I am as guilty as anyone). I propose that we make a better effort to answer the questions that are posed to us. After all, that is one of the reasons why this board is as big of a benefit to us owners as it is.

With that being said, maybe we provide the link, to the tech tips or archives, or answer the question yet again for the zillionth time. Maybe even make an effort to offer our advice on an ongoing basis via email. I am not saying we all have to write 5 page essays like Milby...Just kidding Steve, your answers are some of the best, but maybe just put a few more words on the screen other than Hey, look here.

I know my C-25 experience has been increased 10 fold because of all of you, and I think we need to keep that same level available to our new members.

Sorry if I sound like I am preaching....

DW

Duane Wolff
"The Flying Wasp"
C-25, #401 std,sk
Chief Measurer C-25/250 national Org.
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2dc20b3127cce9cd2f45b211a0000004010" border=0>

Edited by - Duane Wolff on 04/24/2002 11:54:38

Edited by - on

OJ
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

USA
4382 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 09:01:33

Thank you Father Duane - as I mentioned a few threads ago, employing keywords or hotlinks would be a efficient way to access all of the valuable information that is contributed to this forum.

Steve Madsen
#2428
OJ (Ode to Joy)

Edited by - on

John G-
Admiral

Members Avatar

793 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 09:47:15

Duane – It is helpful if posters would take the time to provide links to their answers. I would, however, suggest that everyone surf the [url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/index2.htm"] Association web site [/url] for the[url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/index2.htm"] Tech Tips page, [/url] or read information from the[url="http://c25c250.best.vwh.net/restricted/manbro.html"] Catalina Manuals and Brochures [/url] page. I hope everyone here also goes to the [url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/membership_registration.htm"] Membership [/url] page and joins the Assoc. to support this forum and all the pages on the Assoc. website.
Also you can go back to the [url="http://www.trailersailor.com/search.html"] Trailer Sailor Archives [/url] to find ancient posts from the old forum.
To learn how to post HOT links, you can read the[url="http://www.catalina25-250.org/forum/faq.asp#hyperlink"] FAQ on adding a hyperlink. [/url]
Underlined words are a HOTlink. Also try “clicking” on the “Peregrine” icon below.


[url="http://www.peregrinefund.org/"]<img src="http://www.peregrinefund.org/images/intro_mid_image.GIF" border=0>[/url]
 John G- "PEREGRINE" C25-#4762 FK 

Edited by - john g- on 04/24/2002 09:50:59

Edited by - on

Buzz Maring
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
1772 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 09:52:32

Yea Duane!

I couldn't agree more with you and Steve ... it would be much more helpful to provide an explanation, hot link, key word, or whatever. It takes more time, but what a difference it makes.

On a similar note, it doesn't take much to intimidate newbies to the point where they will simply give up or go somewhere else for the information they need. In spite of my "Skipper" status, I fall into the newbie group ... big time. I have read posts that, with a little tact, could have been much more helpful.

Whether intentional or not, some posts can be very arrogant and make a newbie feel like he/she doesn't have a working brain cell. I fly radio-controlled airplanes, and the similarity is striking ... I've seen wide-eyed, enthusiastic flier wannabes scared away by arrogant old-timers with a condescending attitude ... what a shame ... it reflects poorly on the entire group.

Having said all that, I think this is a wonderful group of people with a LOT to offer ... sometimes we just need a little polish.

Buzz Maring, C-25 SK/SR #68, "Freya"

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 11:05:42

My name is Don and I am an alcoh....oops sorry, wrong group...My name is Don and I am a newbie.

I purchased my Cat last fall and this forum has been an invaluable resource for gathering information and getting help. I would like to say "thank you" to those who provided that aid and I, in turn, feel an obligation to try and provide assistance to those who may be new to the forum. I realize that there is going to be a constant flow of newbies, but with them comes new ideas and new found excitement. At times, certain topics will repeat themselves(Cetol, bottom paint, standing rigging, fixed or swing,...etc) and that's okay, because like the 6th grade teacher or the worker at Home Depot, this forum is a place to learn, ask questions, debate topics, or simply to just say "hi".

Again, I wish to thank those who've provide assistance to me and now I have a question...Where is the coffee and donuts?... Oops, wrong group again!...Does anyone know what day it is?<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>

Don Lucier, Northstar
C25 SR/FK

Edited by - on

Douglas
Master Marine Consultant

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1595 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 13:17:27

Here is another thought. How about putting an icon next to all those who are paying members of the site !

Edited by - on

OJ
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
4382 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 14:19:07

Now where did that come from? <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>

Steve Madsen
#2428
OJ (Ode to Joy)

Edited by - on

jm
Captain

Members Avatar

Canada
290 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 14:34:31

Anyone have a $$ icon ?

Why there's one now..

<img src="c:money.jpg" border=0>

Edited by - jm on 04/24/2002 14:49:05

Edited by - on

Bristle
Admiral

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USA
834 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 15:08:53

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
How about putting an icon next to all those who are paying members of the site !
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>
Douglas: I assume you're willing to take the position of "icon bestower"... Otherwise, it sounds like just another administrative straw on Mark Melchior's back. <img src=icon_smile_dissapprove.gif border=0 align=middle>

Dave Bristle, 1985 C-25 SR-FK #5032 "Passage" in CT

Edited by - on

Douglas
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

1595 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 19:33:21

Bristle would that mean a promotion from Admiral. Im always looking for ways to encorage those who enjoy the site to help maintain it by contributing to it by joining our membership.

Edited by - on

Wahoo
1st Mate

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USA
34 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 19:50:11

A fine idea...instant promotion to Commodore (a rank above Captain but below Admiral) for all dues paying members of the Association who listen (and read) more than they speak (and type).

Ron Reinsel C-25 Hoo's Here #3992

Edited by - on

Bristle
Admiral

Members Avatar

USA
834 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 22:07:10

Don't get me wrong--I think recognition of paid members is a great idea. Just be aware that this forum is driven by some off-the-shelf software. I suspect Mark entered the list of ranks, from Newbie to Galactic Emperor (or whatever), but our promotions are a function of the software. I doubt that he's prepared to modify that software or maintain a list to support some different criteria.

But I'm just one software guy trying to protect another...

Dave Bristle, 1985 C-25 SR-FK #5032 "Passage" in CT

Edited by - on

coldducks
Captain

Members Avatar

USA
342 Posts

Response Posted - 04/24/2002 : 22:35:04

I KNOW THAT I AM GOING TO GET I A LOT OF TROUBLE FOR SAYING THIS....BUT...i pay my dues. both to the national and THE LOCAL. but, i do not want to discourage the NEWBIES (which i am myself) that have a lot of imput in this group. if you just bought your first boat, or a new boat, and were searching for some help, who are We to EXPECT someone to PAY for our advice. if we were all SO SMART we wouldn't be here talking to each other. DOUG, ARE YOU KIDDING? we are all here to help each other, aren't we? when you make your list of paying members, which i am. please leave the icon off of my name. i am here to learn from the best and to give what i can to help all the others.

COLDDUCKS
FANTASY #409 C250WK

Edited by - on

dlucier
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

Virgin Islands (United Kingdom)
7583 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 00:21:53

I think the intent of Mr. Wolff starting this topic was to remind all of us that we were all newbies once who didn't know the ropes and to encourage people to be a little more helpful and friendly to those newbies who have questions, even if those questions have already been asked and answered previously.

As for somehow distinguishing dues paying members(to which I belong) from non-dues paying members, I have to wonder why this information is necessary on this forum. If there were icons designating dues payers does this mean that they get better answers to their questions? Will nonmembers get no advice? This icon idea reminds me of the time I lived in Philly and learned something of it's early history. Apparently, they originally had private fire departments and if you bought fire insurance from one of the firehouses, then you would get help in the event of a fire. When you bought this insurance, you were given a bronze plaque(icon) that you installed above your door to signify that you were a member in good standing and if your house didn't have a plaque, you were somewhat out of luck in the event of a fire. The problem with this system was that most of these homes were rowhouses and if one caught fire, they all caught fire. If a fire wasn't extinguished at a house with no plaque, then the house next door with a plaque might burn to the ground, too. This private system didn't last long for obvious reasons and was made public to benefit everyone equally regardless of membership. Designating members from nonmembers in this forum is not conducive to the idea of a forum which means, "a public meeting place for open discussion", but instead may turn it into a quorum, which means "an exclusive group". I vote for keeping it a forum.

Don Lucier, Northstar
C25 SR/FK

Edited by - dlucier on 04/25/2002 01:43:29

Edited by - on

Douglas
Master Marine Consultant

Members Avatar

1595 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 03:15:13

Reply to coldducks yes I was kidding and yes it probably would be wrong to I.D a dues paying member. The dues go a long way to paying for the Main sheet Magazine and other expenses the Association has. However once in a while it doesn't hurt to remind some that without others paying their dues there might not be a site. Its a personal choice one has to make. If you use the site a lot and feel you want to help in some way then send in your aplication. If your not to the point you want to join thats ok too and I know member or not we will all be courteous and helpfull. Sorry if some skins are thinner than others. It would be a dull world indeed if we were all the same. If you enjoy the site and the people and whant to help then please join.
I won't bring up old history about this site or the association other than to say we can always use more members to spread the exspenses amongst. Thanks

Edited by - on

acierno
1st Mate

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USA
62 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 08:01:13

talking about dues: just how long after one pays does one get access to the online newsletter and other good stuff--i can't get any of that stuff to work. and i would like to echo the sentiment above--paying dues or not does not correlate highly with knowledge---i would like more, rather than fewer responses to any problems i have had. to date, this list has been phenomenal in this regard, probably because its diversity in problem solving approaches.

ron
'mia alessandra'
250wk, hull 463

Edited by - on

John G-
Admiral

Members Avatar

793 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 08:06:35

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
"...i pay my dues. both to the national and THE LOCAL...."
COLDDUCKS
FANTASY #409 C250WK
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>
Coldducks – What local do you belong to? We are trying to figure out which locals still exist and are active. As you will see in the upcoming Mainsheet we are devoting part of our Mainsheet pages to the local fleets. Please e-mail me and let me know or respond to the post here.
Thank You
C25/C250 National Association
Mainsheet Contributing Editor


[url="http://www.peregrinefund.org/"]<img src="http://www.peregrinefund.org/images/intro_mid_image.GIF" border=0>[/url]
 John G- "PEREGRINE" C25-#4762 FK

Edited by - on

Champipple
Master Marine Consultant

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USA
6855 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 08:07:24

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
talking about dues: just how long after one pays does one get access to the online newsletter and other good stuff--i can't get any of that stuff to work. and i would like to echo the sentiment above--paying dues or not does not correlate highly with knowledge---i would like more, rather than fewer responses to any problems i have had. to date, this list has been phenomenal in this regard, probably because its diversity in problem solving approaches.

ron
'mia alessandra'
250wk, hull 463

<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>
Email either Ed or Clifton directly and they will get this to you.

Duane Wolff
"The Flying Wasp"
C-25, #401 std,sk
Chief Measurer C-25/250 national Org.
<img src="http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b2dc20b3127cce9cd2f45b211a0000004010" border=0>

Edited by - on

Gary B.
Admiral

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USA
969 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 09:43:08

Duane: While there's no local C-25 fleet in my area, my "local" is the Columbia River All Catalina Association. Groups like this do exist, and include the Mainsheet, etc. as part of membership. This group is a cruising association; no racing at present. OOps, come to think of it, I think my DUES are DUE for this group!

Edited by - on

coldducks
Captain

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USA
342 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 09:43:22

John, we belong to CANE..catalina assocation of new england. you can reach them at RICHARDAL@AOL.COM. thanks for asking. we will look forward to seeing the locals in mainsheet..

COLDDUCKS
FANTASY #409 C250WK

Edited by - on

DougA
1st Mate

Members Avatar

USA
73 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 10:57:03

Membership, is it my turn to complain again?

Below is an email I received from Clifton about my membership after complaining a year ago. I paid my renewal on February 6, 2001 and still have not received a single thing.

From ???@??? Tue May 22 11:57:47 2001
Date: Tue, 22 May 2001 14:56:33 -0400
From: cthomps@wfubmc.edu (Clifton Thompson)
X-Mailer: Mozilla 4.5 [en]C-CCK-MCD (WinNT; U)
X-Accept-Language: en
To: douga@Stanford.EDU
Subject: Hi Doug

Yes you are a member in good standing. I have been batching members
renewals and yours must have hit just after the last group was run. I
will send you notice when yours is processed but if you ever have
questions regarding your membership please don't hesitate to email or
call me.

Clifton

I don't need an icon for dues paying members, I need one for very unhappy people who try to pay their dues. I'm beginning to wonder why I ever paid in the first place.

Doug A., C250wb, San Franciscp Bay area

Edited by - on

Bristle
Admiral

Members Avatar

USA
834 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 12:48:43

Alright. Any paid-up members who haven't gotten their 20 bucks-worth from these forums ALONE please stand up..........................

I thought so.

Now, anybody who is ready to help our highly paid officers solve some of these administrative problems (for about the same pay) please stand up................................

Nuff said?

Dave Bristle, 1985 C-25 SR-FK #5032 "Passage" in CT

Edited by - on

Kirk W.
Deckhand

Members Avatar

USA
14 Posts

Response Posted - 04/25/2002 : 13:20:31

Hi Gary B. I too live in the Portland area and was wondering if anyone has considered establishing a local Catalina 25 fleet in the Portland area?

Edited by - on

Ray Seitz
Captain

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USA
416 Posts

Response Posted - 04/28/2002 : 12:13:28

Douga: <img src=icon_smile_shock.gif border=0 align=middle><img src=icon_smile_dissapprove.gif border=0 align=middle><BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote> and still have not received a single thing.<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>

You got to post here didn't you? I joined to help support this forum, ( IMHO one of the best) the tech tips, and to help by contributing funds to a good cause. $20.00 is not that much money I burn double that in gas each week!

Ray Seitz C 250WB #628

Edited by - on

DougA
1st Mate

Members Avatar

USA
73 Posts

Response Posted - 04/29/2002 : 21:13:40

The following is a direct quote from the Catalina 25/250 page.

"Annual dues: $20, $26 (outside US; US funds)
Includes subscription to Mainsheet Magazine. This is a quarterly magazine about all Catalina sailboats packed with tech tips and pictures from Catalina owners. You'll also receive The TellTale newsletter, our own Catalina 25 / 250 quarterly publication. They are both a must have!"

If it said the $20 is to support the board, I may well have paid. The ad claims the $20 also covers a subscription to "Mainsheet Magazine and access to "The Tell Tale" news letter. This was a renewal, so I have paid the $20 in the past. I also had a complete collection of the "Mainsheet Magazine" from the time my boat was new. I'm only asking for what I paid for. As the ad claims, " They are both a must have!" I paid form them and would like to have them even after waiting 15 months, is that asking too much?

Doug A., C250wb, San Franciscp Bay area

Edited by - on

Bristle
Admiral

Members Avatar

USA
834 Posts

Response Posted - 04/29/2002 : 23:08:26

<BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>quote:<hr height=1 noshade id=quote>
I paid for them and would like to have them even after waiting 15 months, is that asking too much?
<hr height=1 noshade id=quote></BLOCKQUOTE id=quote>
Nope. Maybe this thread will help shape up our overpaid bureaucracy... <img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>

Dave Bristle, 1985 C-25 SR-FK #5032 "Passage" in CT

Edited by - on

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