I hope that 2010 blesses every one of you and you have plenty of time to be on the river.

Wooden Boat People is now about a year and a half old and has over 350 members. I want to thank all of your for being honest, helpful, and for contributing to this special interest group. I hope to see you on the river.

Today I'll be changing the look of the backgrounds. Not a big deal, just me thinking that a little change every now and then keeps things fresh and what better day to do it that New Year's Day.

As we have grown I now have an opportunity to add a few select sponsors to the site. You will see their tabs on the top left of the new page. These are trusted suppliers of materials for wooden boats or my personal businesses. As we grow these sponsors will be footing the bill for the costs of, bandwidth, domains, and upkeep of the site. These sponsors will change from time to time but will always be specific to wooden boats and river running. Many of you know these suppliers, if you don't please check them out.

As you plan your year, don't forget this years 5th annual McKenzie River Drift Boat Show and parade. It will be on April 24th at Eagle Rock Lodge, about 35 miles East of Eugene, Oregon on Hwy 126.

Also A.J. DeRosa organizes a show that is usually on Memorial Day Weekend that starts at the Wilson Bridge on the Snake River. A.J. please let us know if you are planning the May show this year and what day it will be.

This year a number of us in the plans, kits, and boat building business have seen a growing interest in decked boats for the BIG water. I believe a gathering around Flagstaff in the off season that could focus on the history of Grand Canyon Dories could generate some fun times. It just takes one person willing to name the time and place. Tom Martin (?) Ukulady (?) Andy Hutchinson (?).