As the summer disappears, we have a few reminders.  On Sept. 11th we will have our September General Meeting at the Piedmont Club at 8:00 PM in the upstairs hall.  Please try to attend.

At this meeting, Steve Tiffinger and Eric Johnson will be giving an overview of tips and hints on how to successfully fish in and around the Norwalk Islands and beyond, focusing on the fly fishing and light spinning tackle.  These two together are a wealth of information that you surely will not want to miss!

Captain Steve Tiffinger has been fishing extensively for more than 30 years.  He holds a USCG Master's License and is an IGFA certified captain.  His good-natured attitude is adaptable to any client no matter what their level of experience.  Steve guides on top of a custom 223 Ranger Cayman.  In essence, he probably spends more time on the poling platform than he does at the helm, stalking the flats, rips, and eddies of the Norwalk Islands.  Captain Steve exclusively guides out of Westport Outfitters and can be found in the shop during his free time telling 30 years of fish lore and helping clients and customers alike choose the right gear for their targeted species.

Eric Johnson took ownership of Westport Outfitters last year after spending 8 years riding the train to NYC.  He has changed everything about the store but the name.  He would like to think he was born with a rod in one hand and a wheel in the other.  Coming from a long line of boaters and fishers with roots dating back to his grandparents from Sweden, Eric was raised on the banks of the Connecticut River in Essex where he fished his entire life until relocating to Fairfield County.

Don't miss out!  Come September 11th and hear what these two experts have to say.

Please Note:  Any member's child who has reached their 21st birthday must apply for their own membership in order to be in compliance with Club By Laws.

Reminder:  The Lobster Bake is on September 9, 2006 at 6:00 P.M.  Please RSVP as soon as possible.  We only have seating for 200 people.  If you have misplaced your application, you can get one at the Club or online at www.darienboatclub.org

Our closing picnic will be on September 24, 2006 at 1:00pm.

I know it's a little early to be talking about the Club's closing date, but if you need to plan ahead, I'll give you the date now.

The Club will close on November 4th, 2006.  All boats and brackets must be off the docks by 5:00 P.M. or fines will be incurred.

Also, the old B dock will be replaced this winter.  All brackets and parts that bolt to the dock must be removed.  (See Jim or George for details.)

I look forward to seeing you at the Lobster Bake and the closing picnic.

Sincerely,

Phil Raymond, Commodore