I just returned from a five day camping trip. Upon returning I find that I am
the subject of a flaming! How embarrassing! I am not certain what has
created this situation. The comments I have seen reflect a lot of anger from
Bernie. I don't think I have ever written or said anything derogatory about
Bernie, nor would I. It is not my style. I don't really know him as a
person. I have talked with him very little, certainly not enough to draw any
kind of opinion of the gentleman.
I have read a few posts of Bernie's and I have seen him on his boat in some
moderate winds. I found it to be amusing and a little scary. I did offer
Bernie a helping hand, and he indicated, under no uncertain terms, he didn't
want it. As far as I'm concerned, that's that. If you don't want help,
you're on your own.
I did write a post that stated that the Potter is basically sound and did not
need modifications to keep it from turning upside down in a slight breeze. I
will stand by that statement. If you find that you're having trouble
controlling the craft, you need to look at what and how you are handling the
boat to cause the craft to go out of control. It is not the boat. If Bernie
finds that offensive, I truly apologize to him. I did not mean to hurt
Bernie's feelings. I realize there are many others reading these epistles. I
do not want to see them afraid of their boats because one man is having a
difficult time.
Bernie, I am sorry. I hope that loading up your boat with bricks makes it
sail better for you. For the rest of us, and based on a few years of sailing
a moody Lake Tahoe, I'd advise, and it is only my personal opinion, keep the
boat light. You may want to put a little ballast in the bow to help her
punch through chop and balance the boat, but loading down the boat in an
effort to make it sail like a barge is ridiculous.
I hope this does not sound like a cursory apology. I don't want it to be
that way. Each skipper must make his boat his own. If it works for Bernie,
that's great--that's the way Bernie's boat should be set up. That's his
prerogative. Hopefully each person reading the experiences, modifications and
techniques of others will incorporate only those bits of wisdom that fit
their particular style of sailing.
Hugs and kisses to you all. Especially Bernie!
Geoff
P-15 Lollipop
N. Lake Tahoe, NV