Well, it’s been a few years but it all comes back quickly – except I never was a racer. This past Wednesday evening was only my second sailboat race. The first was several years ago for fun in my then Catalina 30. This time I have the good fortune to be invited to crew on a similar boat, but rigged out for class racing. Even got to fly a spinnaker! Proud to report, we came in first — (full disclosure, we were the only boat in our class). I’ve signed up for the season of Wednesday night races to the extent I can manage. Looking forward to sailing with a good crew and some fun time on the water. Pix follow……
It has been too long since I’ve been able to commit the necessary time to the practice of falconry, and also since I’ve shared the falconry experience with friends. This past week corrected some of that.
It was great to attend the annual Spring Rendezvous at the Archives of Falconry in Boise, Idaho. The primary reason for going was the celebration of lives of falconers who have passed. In particular, my good friend Jim Ruos was added the Wall of remembrance this year. The Rendezvous had not been held the past couple years due to Covid limitations. As a result, and sadly, some 40 names were added to the wall this year.
Wall of Remembrance
In addition, several presentations by experts on the history and practice of the sport were enjoyed. And, most especially enjoyed was the opportunity to reconnect with friends in the raptor world, some of whom I hadn’t seen in over 40years. Hopefully we’ll all do a better job of staying in touch now.
The Archives have been newly expanded and is a remarkably professional facility housing papers, art, books, data and artifacts relating to falconry around the world. There is beautiful informational and art displays. Adjacent to the Archives is the Peregrine Funds World Center for Birds of Prey which works to prevent extinction, protect critical habitats and educate on the roles and importance of raptors around the world. Many species are on display, and guided tours explain the life histories and characteristics of these remarkable birds.
chesapeaketidings & more.. 