*Due to an error in our "printing press", this article didn't publish properly in last month's newsletter*
WSA-OC's Inaugural AdventureSail® for girls was held in Dana Point on Sunday, August
11
th
. The girls from Laguna Beach Boys and Girls Club were greeted by WSA-OC
members at the Ocean Institute who led them on a full day of adventure. They were
treated to a lively discussion about marine life hosted by esteemed OI volunteer
Dr. Milt McMenamin. After viewing sea life being fed lunch, the group walked to the
picnic area and were met by member Yazmin Salazar who talked to them about
overcoming obstacles in life and working together as a team. They then
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Members Sue and Chuck Hutchings teach the girls knot-tying skills
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moved to
the knot tying station, which was hosted by USCG Auxiliary and WSA-OC members,
Sue and Chuck Hutchings.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious BBQ prepared by the men
who support WSA-OC. After lunch the girls received their boat assignments. The
girls enjoyed a two-hour sail and returned to the picnic area energized, talkative and
excited. Susie Campbell closed the day with a conversation about the Blue Heart of
the Ocean and presented the girls with a blue heart necklace to remember the day.
It took a team of 35 + WSA-OC members and volunteers to make this day a
memorable event for the girls. We salute ALL of you for stepping up, handling your
part effortlessly, making the girls feel comfortable and in making this First Inaugural
Event a seamless success.
Member comments after the event were very appreciative, supportive and thankful
for including them in an opportunity to serve the local community. Many said this
day was meaningful to them in so many ways.
Some comments from the girls were:
"I will always remember this day, I got to drive and go on top of a boat"-Alexandria
"We held on to the mast and thought we would fall off and the sharks would get us,
but now I want a sailboat for Christmas"-Peggy Sue
"I felt scared to drive the boat, but now I feel so strong"-Aubri
Members who graciously donated their boats and time for the event were:
Barbara Kelley, Lisa Cullinane, Susie Campbell, Lisa Doliva, Maureen Vild, Brenda
Highley/Gabi Schwaiger-Skipper. We could not have done this without all of you!
AdventureSail® is a nationwide program developed and sponsored by National
Women's Sailing Association to introduce girls ages 9-14 to a day of sailing. By
participating, girls become eligible for a free NWSA junior membership as well as
Scholarships provided by NWSA, WSA-OC and Dana Point Youth Foundation
We have an awesome organization of women sailors! And what terrific events, education and camaraderie we have!
