Sunday, February 22, 2009

"Coachs Comments 022109"

Aloha Rec Ohana,

Much Mahalo’s to the canoe maintenance “cleaning and buffing” crew on Saturday, Feb. 21st!!!!

I counted about twenty-three (23) people present, a balance of competitive and Rec paddlers. Thank you for caring so much about our paddling program to give up your free time on a Saturday morning. We didn’t even get the chance to paddle.

Charlie Thurston was on the beach with us all morning. He brought all the compound polish supplies and after we had cleaned three (3) canoes he stated, “the canoes look almost good as new”.

This canoe maintenance program is so IMPORTANT to the longevity of our club and ministry. Please realize that our usage of these canoes is a privilege NOT A RIGHT! The Rec ministry does not pay any membership fee’s each year like the competitive crews do. And even then, that membership fee does not even come close to the overall cost of equipment that the club/ministry has purchased over the years.

With the exception of six (6) canoes, all the others were bought brand new. Each one costing $12,000 to $15,000. Our total fleet consists of thirteen (13) canoes, including our $68,000 koa canoe.

As you know, the sun and salt air plays havoc on the condition of our fiberglass hulls and ama’s. The ‘iako’s (sidebeams) are also an important concern of ours Each year, they have to be totally sanded down and re-varnished. Right now, Coach Clayton, Sam Kam, Larry Castillo and Joel have been taking the responsibility to get that work accomplished.

And don’t forget our paddles. The club/ministry owns two (2 bags of about 36 paddles which also need to be worked on.

What’s my purpose for telling you all this? WE STILL HAVE MORE WORK TO BE DONE AND WE WILL NEED YOUR HELP!

Next Saturday, Feb. 28th, Maria will be on the mainland for business. Lita and Ulu will help with the refreshments and food tent. I would like to suggest deli-sandwiches and beverages.

So, this week, please sign-up on-line with Lita. Let us know what deli meats, salad, fruits and snacks you can bring.

THE MORE HANDS WE HAVE WORKING, THE FASTER WE GET THE JOB DONE!

God bless you,

Coach Kimo

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