Hello, friends of Mercedes,
Just a quick status report, as we are approaching the time in Michigan when the COVID-19 cases and fatalities are projected to be peaking...
We have not yet been working off maintenance projects on Mercedes this off season to get her ready to launch. I am thinking of trying to delay for a couple more weeks, and then judge whether such "non-critically essential" trips to the boat could be somewhat more justified. It won't take too long to get ready to launch, if and when.
Anchor's Way Marina, where the boat is on her cradle, is closed, though they are answering the phone. The gate that allows access to the yard still operates. They are not venturing a guess about capabilities and timing of launching boats this spring.
The St. Joseph River YC is closed up, too. They sent a note that said they are evaluating the situation for the racing program this season, but no decisions have been made yet. Regarding West Basin Marina, they had an extensive docks and electrical upgrade project planned for the off season. I'm thinking of riding my bike down there to check out whether it looks like the marina will be functional.
As far as regattas, Chicago to Mackinac race committee and Hook Race committee send me notices that they are extending registration deadlines and promising refunds of registration fees if the races have to be cancelled. It's not explicit whether registration fees would be refunded if we elect or are forced not to participate, for health safety or logistics reasons. I have not registered for either race yet.
Social distancing is tough to do on a sailboat between the pointy end and fantasy land, but who knows what the virus mitigation situation will be next month and thereafter. It definitely seems that we will have a new "normal" in our work and recreation. Let's be optimistic that sailing and sailboat racing is still part of it!
Good winds, friends! Please stay healthy and safe.
- Chris and Karen
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