Channel Marker #114 Fall 2015 - Michigan Chapter of the Antique

THE ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC BOAT SOCIETY
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
#114 Fall 2015
Best of Show Algonac 2015
1930 Chris Craft 118 - 28’
Owned by Kermit Sutton of Mount, MN
Shown by Dave Bortner of Freedom Boatworks
MICHIGAN CHAPTER WEBSITE
http://www.michacbs.com
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
ITEMS IN THIS ISSUE:
Page 4 ..............Commodore’s Comments
..............Editor’s Corner
Page 5 ..............Algonac Show Award Winners
Pages 6 & 7......Michigan Chapter Spring Event
Page 8 ..............“My First Boat”
..............Cruisin’ Cuisine
Page 9 ..............Chapter Board of Director Opportunities
..............Thanks!
Page 10 ............Algonac Lunch Cruise
Page 11 ............Algonac Boat Show Wrap-Up
Pages 12 & 13..Muskoka Boat Show
..............2015 Calendar of Events
Page 14 ............Sarnia Bay Boat Show
Page 15 ............Ron Ballentyne (Reprint)
Pages 16 & 17..Fall Dinner
Page 18 ............Wallaceburg Cruise
..............Welcome Aboard New Members
Pages 19-21 ....A Newbie Members Tale
CHANNEL MARKER
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2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Ann Guldemond
Commodore
Term ends 2015
810-794-5371
[email protected]
Alan Brenner
Vice Commodore
Safety Officer
Carl Garmhaus
Past Commodore
Channel Marker
Editor
Term ends 2016
248-877-3593
[email protected]
Term ends 2015
586-493-7965
[email protected]
Allen Willey
Secretary
Roy Schoenherr
Treasurer
John Adams
Rear Commodore
Term ends 2016
248-396-3043
[email protected]
Term ends 2015
586-713-9340
[email protected]
Term ends 2016
586-781-6492
[email protected]
Dave Harper
Port Sanilac
Boat Show
Larry Krabach
Port Huron
Boat Show
Term ends 2017
[email protected]
Term ends 2016
810-434-2540
[email protected]
Greg Lewandowski
Public Relations
PUBLICATION INFORMATION:
The Channel Marker is the official publication of the Michigan Chapter
of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and is published and
distributed to the members three times a year.
TRADIN’ DOCK:
Pat Chaps
Winter Workshop
Term ends 2015
810-326-3575
[email protected]
Tradin’ Dock ads should be kept to 50 words or less. As a service to the
membership the ads are free! Photos to be run with ad are $5.00 and
must be sent electronically to [email protected]. All will appear in
black & white only.
Send payment to: Carl W. Garmhaus, Channel Marker Editor
139 Avery Street, Clinton Twp., MI 48036-3257
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO MICHIGAN CHAPTER, ACBS
COMMERCIAL ADS ARE AVAILABLE:
Proceeds from commercial advertising will be donated to:
The Great Lakes Boat Building School in Cedarville, Michigan
Full page ..............$180.00 per issue - with full color $260.00 per issue
Half page ................$90.00 per issue - with full color $170.00 per issue
Quarter page ............$50.00 per issue - with full color $90.00 per issue
Business card ..............................................................$30.00 per issue
ALL ADS MUST BE CAMERA READY
TO PLACE AN AD, CONTACT
DON BRENNER, 586-752-7213, [email protected]
or Allen Willey 248-396-3043, [email protected]
Please support the companies who put ads in the Channel Marker and
mention that you saw their ad in the Channel Marker when contacting them!
2015 PUBLISHING DATES:
Spring Issue 2015................................................................January 1st
Summer Issue 2015 ..................................................................May 1st
Fall Issue 2015................................................................September 1st
Submit a color photo of your boat for the back page, e-mail or send to the editor
(in the water shots are considered first!) There is no charge to be featured.
The Michigan Chapter, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Rick Laenen
Al Herr
Term ends 2016
810-329-8779
[email protected]
Term ends 2015
586-781-3670
[email protected]
Alex Pawluchyk
Membership
Gerry Kowal
Fleet Captain
Term ends 2015
519-915-0991
[email protected]
Term ends 2015
248-651-5765
[email protected]
Term ends 2015
248-391-1826
[email protected]
Craig Lamm
Term ends 2017
[email protected]
———— Board Members At Large ————
Judi Schoenherr - Ship’s Store 248-647-6770 [email protected]
Jack Warren - Website 519-676-7215 [email protected]
—— Lifetime Honorary Board Members——
Don Brenner
Channel Marker Ads
Joe Kassmann
Historian
586-752-7213 • [email protected]
248-375-1581 • [email protected]
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Commodore’s Comments
Is winter to come again? Summer came so late here in Southeastern Michigan. Those lazy
days of summer, calm waters and long days, call the boater to ride. It is on those days our boats
cannot go fast enough, or far enough. That is what riding in a classic glass or woody is all about.
We have had a few of those days this year, one of them being a Sunday after a day of drenching rain in June, when a group of brave souls rode down the South Channel of the St. Clair
River from Algonac to Harsen’s Island, and the Old Club. Granted the skies were a bit gray, but
the water was calm. The boats ran fast and weaved in and out of each other’s wakes, their riders waving and taking pictures of each other. What a sight to see! What memories.
These memories will help us through the long winter, as we long for summer to come again.
Memories are what spurred us on, to continue boating in our beloved wood and glass boats.
These are memories we need to instill in our children and grandchildren so they too, may continue to enjoy the rides that antique and classic boats give. On that Sunday in June, two grandchildren were riding on one boat and two young adults were riding in another, their boat not
being quite done. They will have memories of this day, and hopefully will cherish those memories. Now is the time to get your children or grandchildren involved in tinkering with boats.
Spend some time working with wood pieces, it may lead to something bigger. Little things like
that will keep our hobby alive. I bet many members have stories of working with parents, grandparents or other family members, some of them have already been told in our “My First Boat”
stories. So let’s continue to make memories.
Ann Guldemond, Commodore
Once again, it’s the beginning of the end! If you recall, I left you last issue with a directive:
“Go forth and boat”, I hope you did. With the coming of fall and cooler weather the days are
shorter, the sun is lower, and the boating opportunities are less.
Don’t miss out on some great shows still on the calendar or some wonderful boating as the
colors start to change. The ramps and lakes will be less crowded. Families will have closed
up the cottages and the kids are back in school. This means peaceful and serene days on your
favorite bodies of water.
You will probably want an extra sweater or windbreaker and with less folks around it will be
more important than ever to wear your PFD. But with just a little extra effort on your part one
of the nicest seasons of boating can be yours to enjoy.
Carl Garmhaus, Editor
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
2015 Algonac Show
Award Winners
Class 1 Wood Runabout
Winner: “UNCAS” / Owner: Kermit Sutton /
Shown by Dave Bortner/Freedom Boat Works
BEST OWNER
Runner up: “DARLA” / Owner: Dana Wagenhals
RESTORED
Class 2 Wood Utility
“Darla”
Winner: “NIMROD II” / Owner: Stu Nunely
Runner up: “SEMI CRAZY” / Owner: Murray Sanford
Dana
Wagenhals
Class 3 Wood Skiff
Winner: No name / Owner: Dana Richardson
Runner up: No name / Owner: Carl Mount
Class 4 Contemporary Wood
Winner: “NICODEMUS” / Owner: Peter Wickens
Class 5 Modified
Winner: “TOUCH OF GLASS” / Owner: John Adams
MARqUE
Class 6 Outboard Wood
BLOND DECK
Winner: No name / Owner: Tom Scally
“Splinters”
Class 7 Wood Cruiser
Ed Dore
Winner: BLACK BEAUTY” / Owner: Rick Laenen
Shown by
Runner up: “CIAO MONDO” / Owner: Don Leone
Dave & Scott
Wrzesinski
Class 8 Youth (6-19 yrs)
Winner: LITTLE POINT” / Owner: Audrina Guldemond
Class 9 Classic Glass Runabout/Outboard
Winner: No name / Owner: Bill Anderson
Runner up: “BUMBLEBEE” / Owner: James Tunison
Class 10 Classic Glass Cruiser
Winner: “KIITOS” / Owner: Michael Eldman
BEST OF
Runner up: “CHRIS’ CRAFT” / Owner: Chris Morisette
SHOW
Valvtect Furthest Traveled
“Uncas”
No name / Owner: Dana Richardson, Portland OR
Kermit Sutton
Owner Restored
Shown by
Winner: “DARLA” / Owner: Dana Wagenhals
Dave Bortner
Runner up: “LENA ESTELLE” / Owner: Jim Mathis
Marque Blond Deck
Winner: “SPLINTERS” / Owner: Ed Dore / Shown by Dave and
Scott Wrzesinski of Marine Services Unlimited, Houghton Lake, MI.
Best Of Show
Winner: “UNCAS” / Owner: Kermit Sutton / Shown by Dave Bortner of Freedom Boat Works,
Mound, MN
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Michigan Chapter Spring Event
MAY 9, 2015
IT WAS A NICE SUNNY DAY FOR OUR FIELD TRIP
TO TOLEDO, OHIO. THE ITINERARY INCLUDED A TOUR OF THE
RAMSEY BROTHERS’ RESTORATIONS FACILITY FOLLOWED BY
LUNCH AT TONY PACKO’S CAFE, AND AN AFTERNOON VISIT
TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE GREAT LAKES.
We arrived at the Ramsey Brothers’ Restorations facility at 10:00 AM and were greeted by Scott
Ramsey and his wife Melissa. We enjoyed coffee and donuts as we admired the memorabilia and nautical paintings in the front office. As we toured the facility there was much to see: Restorations in
progress, completed works, and tools of the trade. In the basement there were parts such as custom
castings, vintage mechanical, electrical, and driveline parts that we had to touch and feel that were waiting to be used in the future restorations. Scott was in constant discussions with the visitors, answering
questions and explaining how they conduct restorations. Time went fast and I am sure Scott Ramsey
will be hearing from some of us in the future.
We then drove a short distance through downtown Toledo and arrived at Tony Packo’s Cafe. If you
watched the TV show “MASH” and remember the fellow called Klinger, he would mention Tony Packo’s
during the show, for this was his favorite eating spot. He was a local Toledo celebrity. This location is
famous for their Hungarian flair put in their meals of Coney Dogs, Hungarian hamburgers, Hot Roast
Beef sandwiches, spicy pickles and more. Hot Dog buns autographed by many famous people are
attached to the walls of the restaurant. The restaurant manager spoke to the group about how the
restaurant started and became a key stopping point in Toledo. He also talked about Klinger and the
Mash show, and the famous people who have eaten there. After lunch we drove a short distance to the
Museum.
From 2:00 to 5:00 PM we visited the National Museum of the Great Lakes. The Museum’s philosophy is to educate and entertain. A Museum video presentation was the first stop. Displays include 250
original Great Lakes artifacts, over 40 hands-on exhibits, hundreds of photographs - some eerie, some
beautiful, all historic. We enjoyed a self-guided tour of the Museum’s freighter, the S.S. Col. James M.
Schoonmaker, docked along a beautifully landscaped 3.5 acre maritime-themed park on the banks of
the Maumee River. Truly a great Museum to visit.
It was a fun and educational day, well worth the drive.
Tim O’Brien
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
PHOTOS FROM THE SPRING EVENT IN TOLEDO, OHIO
RAMSEY BROTHERS’ RESTORATIONS FACILITY,
LUNCH AT TONY PACKO’S CAFE,
AFTERNOON VISIT TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE GREAT LAKES.
Peter Henkel Inc
7530 Marsh Road
Cottrellville, MI 48039
Contact Robert Henkel
810-748-3600 or
[email protected]
We sell ENGINES and related parts for
Marine Engines
Visit us @ www.chris.craft-parts.com
* World-Wide Shipping *
Major credit cards and PayPal
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
MY FIRST BOAT . . . . . . . . . . . . .
“SKOOZER TOO”
Blake Mann spotted an article in a boating magazine which listed a 21’ Mac-Craft Sedan
Utility. This craft was located on the former property of Greavette Boats, in Gravenhurst,
ONT.
When the boat was located, we were warned that the engine might be “seized”, or not
operable. The Mac-Craft was towed to Port Lambton, ONT and loaded onto a trailer belonging to Blake’s father. The engine was replaced by an M-47 Chrysler Marine Engine.
Somehow the craft didn’t appear right until the brown stain was replaced with a red stain.
To my grandfather, all his watercraft were “cruisers”. He had a 26’ workboat that was
similar to the Mac-Craft in the forward position but it had a “fan-tail” stern. “Skoozer Too”
was as close to “a cruiser” as I could master when young.
The Mac-Craft is still in the boathouse.
Submitted by Herb Anthony
Creamy Grape Salad
8 oz. Softened Cream Cheese
8 oz. Sour Cream
1/3 cup Sugar
2 tsp. Vanilla
Mix above ingredients together well and place in sealed container in
refrigerator.
2 lbs. Seedless Red Grapes
2 lbs. Seedless Green Grapes
Wash and Dry….fold into above mixture.
Top with 1/3 cup Brown Sugar and 1/3 cup Chopped Pecans mixed
together before serving.
*Note: I only mix up the amount I want to serve since this recipe
makes a large amount. It’s great to take with you and combine just
before serving.
From the galley of Diane Laenan
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
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Chapter Board of Director Opportunities
Some Director Positions will be available this year in November on the Chapter
Board. If you are interested in serving your Chapter, mapping the future, and
planning events, WE WANT YOU!
The Board is looking for energetic, self-motivated people who work well with
others and are detail oriented. Term length is three years.
If you have been a member of the Michigan Chapter for at least one year and have
not served on the Board in the past, please submit a letter of qualification detailing
your skill set and your reasons for wanting to serve on the Chapter Board of Directors.
Deadline for submission is October 3, 2015 and should be emailed to:
[email protected]
or mailed to:
Commodore Ann Guldemond
7249 Flamingo
Algonac, MI 48001
Thanks...
MICHIGAN CHAPTER ACBS
WISHES TO THANK ALL OUR
SPONSORS WHO SO GENEROUSLY
SUPPORT OUR
ANNUAL BOAT SHOW AND
YEAR-ROUND PUBLICATION OF
THE CHANNEL MARKER!
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
2015 Algonac Show
Friday Lunch Cruise
The first on water event of our Michigan Chapter 30th Anniversary Show departed the Algonac Harbour
Club under sunny skies, pleasant temperatures and a light breeze on Friday June 26, at 9:30 AM. The
North and Middle Channels were suddenly taken back in time as 41 classic runabouts and cruisers graced
the waterways with a rumble that is unmistakably the exhaust note of these great watercraft. Some navigated the direct route down the Middle Channel, and others continued on the North Channel and through
Goose Bay. All arrived safely at the private island of our hosts, Bob and Sue Bryson, by late morning. The
expert boat handling of all the captains allowed for safe docking with boats rafted two and three deep off
the island sea wall.
We all enjoyed a wonderful BBQ lunch that was again this year prepared on the huge grille that had
been towed from Harsens Island on one of Bob's work barges. It doesn't get any better than that for setting the tone of a classic boat picnic rendezvous.
Socializing, boat talk and touring the Bryson's fabulous octagonal summer home continued after lunch.
The 126 guests then started to depart for the cruise back to the marina with full stomachs and that great
feeling that comes with a day that can only be described as terrific.
The chapter wants to thank all of the members that participated, and especially Bob and Sue Bryson
for their warm and gracious hosting of this great annual event.
Greg Lewandowski
Charlotte • Grand Rapids • South Bend
“Everything
for the
Woodworker”
Charlotte
Toll Free: 800-292-5937
Fax: 517-543-7180
563 N. Cochran St. - Charlotte, MI 48813
email [email protected] • www.theworkbench.com
1623 Mill Street
Algonac, MI 48007
(586) 243-7977
www.eversomarine.com
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
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30th Annual Algonac International Boat Show
The 30th Anniversary Where it All Began Boat Show turned out to be a mix of fun, sun and storms.
The day Friday started with a tour of Algonac Cast Products. Back in the day they supplied the Chris Craft
plant with their cast parts, everything from struts and rudders to vents and trim. It’s surprising to see how much
of the old tooling they still have. They were working on a number of parts while the tour was on. Everyone that
attended really enjoyed the tour and hospitality that they showed us.
After the Tour was the annual cruise and BBQ picnic at Bryson’s Island on the Middle Channel. You can read
more about that elsewhere in the Channel Marker.
The busy Friday wrapped up after everyone cruised back to the Harbour Club and enjoyed a catered dinner
under the water tower. It was a great opportunity to relax and talk over the events of the day with our fellow
Club members. Overall Friday was a great day, sunny and warm, a great day to be on the water. Over 30 boats
were in their wells Friday night awaiting the show Saturday morning.
Unfortunately the weather did not cooperate Saturday. The day opened with wind and rain and never let up
throughout the day. Even considering the weather some boats arrived by water, as the one Captain (who was
dressed in full rain gear) stated “nothing was going to keep me from Algonac today”. There was some discussion while huddled under the registration tent of canceling the judging for the day. However – that discussion
was short lived as the volunteer judges showed up and as they say – “the show must go on”. Everyone who
came, especially those that went through the effort of taking the covers off their boats so the judges could see
them deserved and received a review by the judges. One bright spot for the day was Tootsie the Clown. She
showed up, set up shop inside the old factory building and kept smiles on the faces of all the kids that were
there. The free shuttle into Algonac for the Historical Society was a popular attraction throughout the day. Many
took advantage of the warm dry shuttle and enjoyed a tour of the museums in Algonac.
Typically I’m a runabout guy – but I must admit a few times during the day Saturday when I stopped in to
visit a cruiser, as they cracked open their cabin door and the warm (and mostly dry) air came rushing out, I
understood one of the draws of a cruiser.
Saturday night the rain stopped and the Club hosted 2 dinners. The dinner at the Algonac Historical Society
was packed as was the one at the Harbour Grill. Together through auctions we raised over $2,000.00 for Kids
in Distress, a local charity that supports kids in need in our local area.
Sunday the sun came out and a number of people enjoyed a cruise to the Old Club for a wonderful Sunday
Brunch in the newly remodeled Main Dining Room. Dale Cooper, General Manager of the Club gave a very
interesting talk on the history of the Old Club and Harsens Island. After the brunch a number of us stuck around
and toured the grounds.
A special thank you to all the volunteers that helped put the show on, regardless of the rain on Saturday the
majority of the work was done in advance and everyone made the best of what the weather dealt us. Planning
has already begun for next year – we’re planning on lots of sun.
Alan Brenner
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Muskoka Boat Show 2015
The Muskoka Boat Show was held July 10-12 at the town docks in Gravenhurst Ontario. The show is
put on by the Toronto Chapter of the ACBS. This year, several chapters of the ACBS were invited to participate by Toronto Chapter President Kathy Rhodes. This gracious invitation included some cost incentives
on some of the events to encourage boaters to travel to Muskoka to attend the show. Some 20 Michigan
members and 8 boats made the journey to Muskoka.
Lake Muskoka and adjoining Lakes Rosseau and Joseph are truly spectacular. The thing that makes
them truly unique is that many of the boats that were at the show were built by the builders on the lake such
as Ditchburn, Greavette and Minet and have never been anywhere else. We saw one boat, a 1918
Ditchburn that had been in the same slip its entire life. The boat house had been rebuilt but it was still the
same slip. Amazing!
For any that have not attended this show, it is a very large show, well organized and well attended.
There were 121 boats in the water and a further 21 on land display. This year, the feature boat for the show
was the Disappearing Propeller Launch or Dippy as it is commonly referred to and there were about 20 in
attendance. The docks were mobbed with spectators that paid $15.00 for the opportunity to see some of
the most beautiful wooden boats in the world. For most of the day, security controlled access to the docks
so that they would not be overloaded. There was a well populated field of dreams and many vendors with
assorted marine parts. The weather was fantastic throughout the whole
show.
The show kicked off with a poker run on Friday. The run featured
stops at 3 boat houses loaded with mahogany and lunch at the Muskoka
Boat and Heritage Center in Gravenhurst. The winners of the Poker Run
were Al and Margaret Herr from the Michigan Chapter. Friday wrapped
up with a cocktail reception and dinner at the Muskoka Bay Club.
Saturday was Boat Show Day. In addition to viewing boats, there was
a program to have boats in motion in the bay close to the docks, discounted one hour cruises on the Winona II, cardboard boatbuilding and
free admission to the Muskoka Boat and Heritage Center. All in all, a lot
of things going on. Show day wrapped up with a cocktail reception for
the boaters.
On Sunday, there was a brunch at the historic Beaumaris Yacht Club.
Beaumaris is about a 30 to 40 minute run from Gravenhurst past millionaires row on Lake Muskoka and was a perfect way to wind up some
great boating. After brunch, it was back to the marina to load the boats
and head home, tired but feeling well satisfied with the journey.
Jack Warren
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
PHOTOS FROM
MUSKOKA
BOAT SHOW 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
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MICHIGAN CHAPTER ACBS
2015 Calendar
of Events
SEPTEMBER
9/03/15—Mail date for Channel Marker.
9/11-12/15—Port Huron Boat Show, contact Larry
Krabach, 810-982-9076, [email protected]
or Alan Brenner [email protected].
Registration forms were in the Summer Channel
Marker or are available online.
9/10/15—Michigan Chapter ACBS Meeting Location: Schoolhouse Grille, 2669 Columbine
Rd., Harsens Island. MI 48028. Meeting starts at
7 pm, room is available for dinner at 6 pm.
OCTOBER
10/08/15—Michigan Chapter ACBS Meeting Location: Logans Road House, 14235 Hall Rd,
Sterling Hts, MI. Meeting starts at 7 pm, room is
available for dinner at 6 pm.
10/10/15—Michigan Chapter Swap Meet,
at Everso Marine Restorations, 1623 Mill St.,
Algonac, MI 48001, for more information,
contact John Adams, 586-781-6492,
[email protected]
NOVEMBER
11/14/15—Michigan Chapter ACBS Annual Meeting.
Location, Stahl's Automotive Museum,
56156 N. Bay Dr, Chesterfield, MI 48051.
Social Hour at 11 am, Brunch at noon.
Contact Contact John Adams for more
information @ 586-781-6492
[email protected].
DECEMBER
12/1/15—Deadline date for material submitted to
Channel Marker.
*Note : Meeting locations subject to change.
Updated Calendar of Events and meeting location changes
published on Chapter's website, www.michacbs.com and in
the Chapter's newsletter, the Channel Marker.
If you have questions contact
Ann Guldemond 586-665-2202, [email protected].
Other activities will be posted as dates become known.
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CHANNEL MARKER
Fall 2015
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
ACBS Bluewater Chapter-Sarnia Bay Boat Show
Just four weeks after our own ACBS Michigan Chapter “Where it All Began” Algonac Boat show took
place, our local ACBS Bluewater Chapter hosted their own show at the other end of the St. Clair River in
Sarnia Bay. The “Bluewater-Sarnia Bay Boat Show” kicked off with many of the boats coming in on Friday
for the Captain’s Welcome Party. Afterwards, there were small gatherings of participants renewing friendships on the docks with perfect weather…a perfect evening.
Saturday started off well with a little over 30 boats in attendance. Cruisers predominated with a few
skiffs in attendance as well. Michigan Chapter was well represented with “Tiger Lily”, “Cracker Jack”,
“Canada Goose”, “Ratis” and others participating. The weather was hot and humid with the threat of storms
coming in the afternoon. Beautiful boats everywhere.
Voting went on throughout the day, 4 awards total were presented. The winners were: People’s Choice
- “Black Beauty” owned by Rick and Diane Laenan, Kid’s Choice - “Cracker Jack” owned by Jack and Carrol
Warren, Captain’s Choice – “Tiger Lily” owned by Greg and Marianne Lewandowski, and finally, the
President’s Choice Award presented by Bluewater President Gerrit Dykhouse to “Tiger Lily”.
Congratulations to the winners. Congratulations to everyone.
A wonderful lunch was served including delicious pulled pork and all the fixin’s. After a nasty wind and
rain storm that suddenly blew through with everybody getting drenched as they ran for cover and losing
power, final words... It was a great and memorable show bringing together old friends, new friends, and
beautiful boats.
Thank you ACBS Bluewater Chapter and Sarnia Bay Marina, ONT, CA. for your hospitality. Hoping to
see everyone next year.
Submitted by Don Kiddle and Gale Woods
• COPPER
• BRASSPLATE
• BRUSHED
NICKEL
• NICKEL
• BUFFING & POLISHING
OF ALL METALS
• MEDIA BLASTING
• CHROME
• PLATING ON
ALUMINUM
• METAL STRIPPING
A-W CUSTOM CHROME, INC.
• Boat Building & Restoration
• Hand Crafted Custom Furniture
www.marineserviceunlimited.com
[email protected]
12114 E. Houghton Lk. Dr.
Houghton Lake, MI 48629
989-422-6563
Dave Wrzesinski
Scott Wrzesinski
CLASSIC CARS • BOATS • MOTORCYCLES
17726 EAST NINE MILE ROAD
EASTPOINTE, MICHIGAN 48021
(586) 775-2040
STEVE BOX
[email protected]
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
Fall 2015
CHANNEL MARKER
15
Ron Ballantyne & Pal
Reprinted from Winter 1982 Channel Marker
Last August the Hessel Boat Show was a great
event. There were over 175 boats of all types and
kinds. Along with the expected great numbers of
runabouts and utilities, there were antique sailboats, steamers, launches, rowboats, canoes and
outboards. There was even an amphibious car. A
class that seems to be growing, and beautifully so,
is the cruiser class. These big old beauties were in
greater attendance this year and are real show
stoppers with their polished brass telegraphs, lights,
compass, shrouds, and miscellaneous gear.
My wife Barbara and I trailered PAL, our 21-foot
1918 Hacker, back to its place of origin and were
particularly proud when we were awarded first prize
in our class. PAL is an interesting boat. Its photograph appears in a 1920 Hacker Design Catalog
under the name of PAL and can be traced to its very
beginning in the Hessel-Cedarville area. Marvin
Tessler, of the Tessler Boat Works in Cedarville, did
the restoration. As you can see from the photographs, he did an absolutely beautiful job of bringing back to life a boat that had literally been abandoned.
Marvin’s dad, Leo Tessler, now in his ‘70s,
remembers working the gas dock as a boy and
often putting gasoline in PAL. He remembers the
highly polished brass on the four cylinder engine
and states that a local doctor owned PAL for perhaps as long as 50 years.
PAL has been repowered several times as you
can see by the transom. But, remarkably, if you
study the derelict, you will see the fittings and hardware are original and intact. Currently, PAL has a 95
HP Model K Chris Craft engine. She is quick and
kind with a narrow beam, deep vee bow, and dead
flat stern. She is similar to most Hacker racers of
the 20’s era and not too unlike modern off-shore
racers.
We bought the boat three years ago while in
Hessel. Jim Olerick, owner of Newkirks Boat
Repair, in nearby Keego Harbor, has spent many
hours on the hull and topsides, bringing the finish to
near perfection. Outside of the engine work and
detailing here and there, I claim little of PAL’s present state as my personal art but we are proud of her
none the less. If nothing else, this boat proves that
a weathered abandoned boat behind some barn
can be resurrected to show class condition.
Incidentally, PAL is not a hangar queen. She is in
the water, on Orchard Lake, six months of the year
and, weather permitting, is used almost every day.
The registration of MC-0001-HW was strictly
luck. When I went to the Secretary of State’s office
near my home, I mentioned that the state had historic water craft tags at a low price ($20.00). They
all denied the fact, but boring in, I got them to call
Lansing who referred them to an obscure bulletin in
their 2,000-page manual. I was the first one in
Michigan to apply for and receive this low price historic registration.
Our latest project is a 1954, 22-foot, C.C.
Sportsman Utility that has an unusual background.
One owner, boathouse kept (Lake Charlevoix) on
its cradle, never in water overnight, original in all
detail with sales slip, manuals for hull and engine
and in great untouched condition. See you at
Hessel!
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MICHIGAN CHAPTER
The Wallaceburg Cruise
On Saturday August 1st, we took part in another of Fleet Captain Gerry Kowal’s “Summer
Cruises”. This one, with the help of Co-Director Alex Pawluchyk and his connection with our
“sister chapter”, The ACBS Bluewater Chapter, across the river in Ontario, we cruised the Chenal
Ecarte and Sydenham Rivers to Downtown Wallaceburg. A leisurely cruise of about an hour and
a half brought us to the docks of the Blue Goose Restaurant for a delicious lunch.
We had approximately 12 boats evenly split between US and Canadian members from both
clubs. With guests, there were over 40 people along for the ride and lunch. Participating boats
ranged from a 17’ CC Utility up to a 53’ Motor Yacht and a wonderful variety in-between that caught
an eye or two. We got approving waves from other boaters and folks on shore as well.
After lunch we all boarded our boats for the return trip back to the St. Clair River. The weather
was perfect, with light winds, an almost cloudless sky and temps in the middle 80’s.
With a nice welcome from Gerrit Dykehouse for our visit to Ontario, I think that it was mutually
agreed by all that this was a successful event and that we should plan some additional joint
outings in the future. We had a great turn-out for this cruise and encourage more of our members
to participate. Come enjoy the other cruises that are organized for club members. A beautiful day,
a chance to use the boats, a visit with our friends from the Bluewater Chapter. There’s not much
better!
Submitted by Gale Woods and Don Kiddle
WELCOME
JIM & MACY CHIONSINI
JAY & SUSAN ELLIOTT
SHANNON & SCOTT KNIGHT
MIKE THEUT
TODD & BETH SPENCE
ABOARD
KEVIN HIGHSTREET
DAVID & MARY TOWNE
DAVID WOODAZ
PAUL J. & ELAINE HEBERT
ROBERT & VICKI KULICK
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
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A Newbie Members Tale
As new members, Ann Guldemond asked us to introduce ourselves and share our perspective of
the Algonac Boat Show as first-time classic boat owners.
We are newlyweds, celebrating our 4th wedding anniversary this September. We are both engineers in the auto industry, so please excuse our mediocre creative writing skills! Scott grew up with
classic cars, helping his Dad restore several classic cars and the 1956 Ford F-100 that his uncle built
currently residing in our garage. He also learned to love woodworking from his Dad, who specializes
in the Craftsman/Stickley style. Shannon grew up cruising the Great Lakes on her family’s 1984 Sabre
38 sailboat – her special talent was navigation in the era of LORAN and dead reckoning – no GPS!
In 2013, we purchased our first home together. It is located on a small inland lake in Oakland
County, MI and we couldn’t wait to start enjoying the water together. A lake house NEEDS a boat (or
15 if you ask Alex Watson), so we spent our first summer saving our pennies and researching the various types of boats that would fulfill our needs. We needed a low-profile boat due to the height restrictions to get to the adjoining lakes, but one that could also be counted on for vacations to larger lakes.
Most of the neighbors have 90’s Malibu ski boats, but Scott’s experience with classic cars and our
“enginerdy” appreciation of craftsmanship and good design had us craving something unique.
Countless hours of internet education later - including assistance from CCABC and ACBS members
who we found through Woody Boater and Boat Buzz - we honed in on what we believed to be a great
choice for us: a Chris-Craft XK-19. Classic, low profile, deep V, dry ride, fast, and noisy! We loved
the feeling of community that we could sense immediately from the thoughtful responses we received
to our newbie questions during our search. We had never owned a power boat – let alone an OLD
power boat – so this support was essential for us to achieve a comfort level such that we would take
the jump and write the check.
We joined the ACBS and the Michigan Chapter this year in anticipation of participating in the
Algonac Show and traveling with our boat to Minnesota for “Woods and Water”. We realized that we
represent this new demographic that is so important to keeping these beautiful boats on the water.
Because of that, we agreed to share our perspective of the Algonac Show, so here it goes…
Despite significant effort by Wayne Eversole, we realized early in the week of the Algonac show that
our XK was not going to make it. We were so disappointed! Lesson #1: Always plan for 150% of your
repair budget in terms of money and time! So our first experience with the Michigan Chapter and show
organizers was to cancel as a participant. We encountered complete understanding from the show
Please Turn to Page 20
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A Newbie Members Tale
_____________ Continued From Page 19
organizers. “No problem” was the first response followed quickly by “We’ve all been there!” They
offered for us to ride along with others to the events we had registered for which required having a boat.
Everyone’s kindness and understanding turned our sour disappointment back to excited anticipation
about meeting these kind people and having a chance to experience the show from something other
than the dock!
On Friday, we were invited by Wayne to join the group for lunch at a private island. Shannon had
already planned to take the day off of work to get the boat to Algonac and into the water but Scott had
to work all day. Shannon was nervous about showing up alone, boatless, trying to hitch a ride with
total strangers to go to lunch on some unspecified private island somewhere in the vast expanse of
Lake St. Clair. What could go wrong? Her trepidation was quickly set aside by the warm welcome at
reception by Susan Garmhaus and assistance by Vice Commodore Alan Brenner to find someone willing to take an extra passenger. Shannon was invited to ride with Pat and Sheila Chaps on Allure and
enjoyed her first ride on a classic Chris-Craft Commander! The ride out to lunch afforded views she
had only seen in photos. How amazing to hear and see these gorgeous boats all around, flying through
the Caribbean blue water at full throttle!
Shannon: “It was amazing to see this beautiful home surrounded by so many boats – each one a
work of art! Put all together is hard to describe – something I had only seen in photos! I walked around
with Sheila and she introduced me as a new member and I was met with such welcoming kindness.
Of course, I had to explain that our boat wasn’t ready, and that it was PLASTIC! No one cared!
“Welcome to the club!”, “Those boats are cool!”, “I can’t wait to see it!”, “How did you decide to buy a
classic boat?” All my fears about not fitting in because our boat was fiberglass and not completely
stock were silenced. Ann Guldemond and Judi Schoenherr welcomed me to the club and Margaret
Herr took me for a personal tour of the beautiful home on Bryson’s Island. I enjoyed my first day with
the club immensely, feeling welcomed and looking forward to more great times boating with nice people. I couldn’t wait to tell Scott! Now if there was only cell service on this island...”
We woke up on Saturday to rain – lots of rain. We figured the day would be a complete washout
and that people would cover their precious boats or even pack up and go home. Not the case! We
arrived at the Harbour Club to find boats in the water and smiling faces under the registration tent (in
full foul weather gear with coffee in hand to be sure!). One of our favorite events of the day was watching Gary Cornillie launch and dock his 1969 Chris-Craft Commander Super Sport in a driving rain.
Once the lines were set and the very soggy owner was safely standing on the quickly liquefying ground,
we introduced ourselves and asked about his boat. During our internet education about the XK-19, we
Please Turn to Page 21
STORAGE • REPAIR • GAS DOCK • BOAT WELLS
BOB & SUSAN BRYSON
(810) 748-3330 • Fax (810) 748-3800
7650 South Channel
Harsens Island, MI 48028
3272 South Channel
Harsens Island, MI 48028
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
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A Newbie Members Tale
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_____________ Continued From Page 20
found clues that someone in Plymouth, MI owned a Commander Super Sport, and here it was in
the flesh, er – plastic! Later, we joined Gary for some beers at the clubhouse and made plans for a
Super Sport and XK-19 tour of the Nautical Mile, we can’t wait!
As we continued our way around the marina we met more owners and asked about their boats.
Even soaking wet, the owners were happy to chat and these boats were gorgeous! When we met Rick
Laenen on the dock, we introduced ourselves and asked about his boat. Instead of just describing her,
he invited us (complete strangers!), over for a personal tour of “Black Beauty”. We realized we had
seen this boat before… on the ACBS home page and in Hessel and Bay Harbor! What a gorgeous
boat!
It bothered us a bit that we didn’t know what was considered “cool”. One kind owner corrected us:
“Actually, you have an advantage because you can just enjoy the boats rather than have your judgement clouded by what is rare or expensive. “Just like what you like.” What a great perspective!
Nevertheless, Scott quickly discovered his taste in boats parallels his taste in steaks – rare and expensive .
Scott: “On Sunday, the day dawned as we all wished Saturday had - bright, sunny, … perfect!! The
run to The Old Club and back was spectacular for these first timers. “Black Beauty” led the way, “Tiger
Lily” “water skied” in her smooth wake. The “YNOT” posse from Pennsylvania came along in the Donzi
(BB) and the Red & White “Eulipion” – telephoto lenses in hand. I expected the Donzi to be the rocket she is, but Eulipion was surprisingly quick too. “Tight Lines” cruised alongside, barely breaking a
sweat. On the way back, Gary entertained in his Super Sport “Bar Taxi” , jumping “Black Beauty’s”
wake a few times. We’re surely forgetting a few others on the run…. It was a sensory overload of beautiful boats on turquoise water that would make the Caribbean jealous.”
The entire experience of that weekend far exceeded our expectations, which was only possible
because of the attitudes of the people hosting and attending the event, making the best of the situation and enjoying each other’s company. The boats are beautiful and special without a doubt, but in
the end what they do is bring people together to have fun, and that’s the real magic.
Special thanks to Greg and Marianne Lewandowski for taking us on our very first wooden boat ride
in their classic mahogany marque blonde decked Continental, “Tiger Lily”. She is a stunning boat and
a very classy lady.
And thanks to all the club members for making us feel so welcome. We can’t wait for next year…
our XK will be ready to play!
Submitted by Scott & Shannon Knight
Murleyʼs Marine
DOLPHIN MARINE ENGINE CO.
Michael Murley
Chrysler factory trained
40 years experience
8174 Dixie Highway
Fair Haven, MI 48023
586-725-7446
586-716-9881
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Fall 2015
TRADIN’ DOCK
FOR THE EXCHANGE OF SECOND-HAND
BOATS, ENGINES AND EqUIPMENT
----------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR SALE: 1947 Chris Craft 17 ft. Deluxe Runabout,
completely rebuilt, boat, motor & trailer. Call Alex 519-9150991 or [email protected]. $27,000 Cdn.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR SALE: 17 ft. canoe, pro. built in Port Carling,
Ont. $1,200 Cdn. Call Alex 519-915-0991 or apawluchyk@
cogeco.ca.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR SALE: 1954 CC Sea Skiff. Hull finished inside and
out. Plywood for decks included. All parts and gauges
included. Original 115 HP Chrysler Crown Engine and tandem axle trailer available. Call Joe @ 248-375-1581 or
email [email protected]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
MICHIGAN CHAPTER
TRADIN’ DOCK
RATES F OR
ADVERTISING
Tradin Dock ads should be kept to 50 words
or less. Members: The first 30 words are free
for one issue and $5.00 per photo! Nonmembers: $20.00 for 20 words; .50 each
additional word per issue and $5.00 per
photo. All ad photos will appear in black &
white only. Ads must be renewed every issue.
Send photo and ad copy
electronically to
[email protected]
Send payment to:
FOR SALE: 1966 CC Cutlass 26’, 327 V-8 210 HP. New
mahogany plank West System Transom, new West System
Deck and Cuddy Cabin. Rechromed Fittings and Gauges.
Full Canvas and Mooring Cover. Excellent condition.
$16,875 [email protected] 248-855-533.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR SALE: 1957 CC 26 ft. Sports Express. Professionally
restored and maintained over the last 20 yrs. Twin KL 105 HP,
both engines rebuilt in 1992, limited use since then. Bottom
and Transom replaced. New Aluminum Fuel Tanks. Electric
Head with Holding Tank. Teak Cockpit Floor. Front Deck and
Frames replaced. Engines pulled and detailed, bilge painted
2014. All fittings rechromed. Includes tandem axle trailer with
both axles replaced in 2013. Asking $45,000. Call Pat @
313-590-0567 or email [email protected]
Carl Garmhaus, Editor
139 Avery Street
Clinton Twp., MI 48036
MAKE CHECKS
PAYABLE TO
MICHIGAN CHAPTER, ACBS
Advertiser Index:
A-W Custom Chrome, Inc ............................Page 14
Aims Machine Service..................................Page 23
Antique Boat Center ....................................Page 23
Chesterfield Engines, Inc ..............................Page 6
Digital Outdoors, Inc.....................................Page 12
Everso-Marine Restorations, Inc..................Page 10
Hagerty Insurance ..........................................Page 2
KC Marine Services ....................................Page 21
Kehrig Mfg. Co. Inc ......................................Page 12
Kocian Instruments ........................................Page 6
LL Johnson Lumber......................................Page 10
Mackie Boat Works ......................................Page 20
Marine Services Unlimited ..........................Page 14
Maritime Classics ........................................Page 23
Murley’s Marine ............................................Page 21
Peter Henkel Inc.............................................Page 7
Ramsey Brothers Restorations ......................Page 7
Tashmoo Marina ..........................................Page 20
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Fall 2015
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