Get Your Boat Ready! Ride 'n Show Sept. 27-28

The Hilton Bella Harbor will again be the location of the WBA's annual Ride 'n Show, slated for September 27-28, 2013 on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard. The City of Rockwall docks will provide a high-quality venue for our display of antique and classic boats.

The schedule will include our usual dining and revelry, in addition to a Sunday morning ride on the lake. Please make every effort to attend!

A Beautiful National Marina Day at Lake Joe Pool

Thanks to all who participated in the National Marina Day observance at Lynn Creek Marina at Joe Pool Lake. Above, the clubhouse provides a wonderful setting for displaying boats and enjoying owner Mildred Walker's hospitality. Right, new WBA member Dan Tinker displays his 22' Carter, a welcome addition to the WBA Fleet!

Kimball, Webster Bring History to Life at June Meeting

Bill Kimball, above, presents the history of Mercury marine engines at the June WBA meeting, discussing the professional life of Carl Kiekhaefer, founder and driving force of the iconic Mercury marque.

Mark Webster brought us a bonus presentation of historic and personal significance. This week marks the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg, where one of Mark's ancestors, Major J.G. Palmer gave his life. He led his unit into battle, and was the only fatality. Thanks to Mark and to Bill for great presentations!

Projects Abound in the WBA!

Troy Marshall and Robin McGeorge are at it again, this time with a 1951 Chris-Craft 16-foot Riviera (above left) with a 4 cylinder engine (above right). The boat is very sound, and although it's smaller than usual for the dynamic duo, we're sure it'll make someone the perfect classic boat!

Below left, Bob Adair and Lew White have been restoring a Yellow Jacket in Lew's garage in Plano. The boat is a '58, but will be restored in a slightly modified format.

Below left and right, Mark Wilson fits gunwale planks to his 68 Grand Prix. The boat is looking better and better every time we visit the shop. For many of us, the 68 Grand Prix is hard to beat for its sleek lines. It'll be a great day when this baby hits the water.

The cockpit is open, with an aft deck and well for fuel tanks and battery. Custom improvements are also built into the seat suspension. The hull is white, with a yellow bottom.

Next Meeting July 18th. Don't miss it!

Join us on Thursday, July 18th at 7 p.m. at Two Guys from Italy at 11637 Webb Chapel Road, just south of Forest Road. WBA Treasurer and benefactor John Parish will be giving away one of his many boating and woodworking related books as a door prize. Our presentation this month will be provided by Bob Adair and Lew White, and will feature stories and photos from the history of Plano's own Chrysler Boats, where both Bob and Lew worked for a number of years.

Join us for a light meal and moderate libation at 5:30 p.m. at Two Guys from Italy prior to the meeting. We encourage you to join us for dinner, so we'll always have the required minimum number of diners to avoid a room charge.

Shop Talk and Musings

Just a few words this issue about the freedom we enjoy as Americans and as boaters. From Mark Webster's poignant presentation about the Battle of Gettysburg to a chance meeting of two young recruits shipping out to serve in Afghanistan, we've been reminded in many ways of the importance this Fourth of July week. Boating itself is a wonderful expression of freedom...traveling across an open expanse with no road, no map, no stop signs and no brakes! Let's enjoy this freedom safely and fully, never forgetting the sacrifices of those who have made it possible.

And, finally:

Please take a look in the shed or garage for the leftover parts or other saleable items you can donate to the club. Bring them to any WBA meeting, or contact David Kanally at david@historywithheart.com for pickup.