M Boaters, Had "Bellerin" out today for the first time this year and we had a great day on the water. In about 13 Kts of wind we went sailing by a Hunter 28 and caught up to a Hunter 32 (both had reefed mainsails), we were flying a full main and a 110. Anyway as we are sailing close to the H32 the skipper yells over "Is that a Montgomery 17? We acknowledge him and then he yells over Lyle Hess would be proud. Absolutely the nicest compliment I ever had on this boat. We were moving along very nicely and in a nice groove(thanks to Captain Greg) who was at the helm.Both of us agreed he wasn't complimenting the sailors but was taken with the work of Lyle Hess. These boats, the 15, 17 and 23 are a thing of beauty, tough as nails and boy do they sail. I just want to give kudos to Jerry for building me a fantastic little ship, Bob for all the continued support and for keeping the M Boats alive so young knowledgeable sailors have an opportunity to enjoy Lyle's work and to Lyle himself, without whom it could not have been. In addition to having the best small boats on the water I believe as a group we have some of the most knowledgeable and skilled sailors out there. Hoping everyone enjoys the sailing season. Thanks Gary Valetti M 17 Bellerin ************************************** See what's free at http://www.aol.com.