Well, I picked up my new boom cover today; the guy did a nice job with it. I should get a photo of it this weekend when I run Busca up to the lake. It is the same color as the boom tent. Now I'll be able to leave the boat more fully rigged. Unfortunately, that company (www.cmicovers.com) is closing it's doors Friday so I'll either have to find another shop or start making my own canvas. Maybe I could buy a sewing machine from him? Hmmmmm. Welcome, Jobst! Congrats Larry! Thanks for the tale, Doug. I'm kicking around Maine vs. the Lyle Hess Fest; doubt I could swing both. If I did go to the Chesapeake, would anyone be interested in a two week Maine cruise for '05 and would anyone be interested in some extended Chesapeake sailing (I would be sailing for a two week time period)? Some cruising company would be nice. If you haven't sailed coastal Maine, it's really fine sailing and in reasonably well protected waters if desired in the Penobscot Bay to Mount Desert Island region. From my reading, I think end of August/beginning of Sept is probably the best time of year. Earlier in the summer seems to increase the crowds and fog. I still need to get some labels made for my electrical panel; I'll have some photos after they are added. Tod Mills M17 #408 BuscaBrisas Tartan 26 #30, nameless