Yes, it is only the first week in February but the SYC Junior sailing program is already prepared for registration for the summer of 2008. So put aside the winter doldrums (we can still boo hoo over the Patriots for a few more days), and stir up the summer juices and think about going to the SYC Web site, www.southportyachtclub.org and be among the first to make sure that your budding sailors have a place in the morning or afternoon classes. There will be no further mailing this year. For those of you who do not have access to this technology, exceptions will be made upon request to SYC Sailing Foundation, attn. Henry Berne, P.O. Box 68, Southport, ME 04576

If you have any doubts about the success of our program, we have heard from former director Blake MacDiarmid that his son Ian won the 2007 Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta by 14 points over Coral Reef Yacht Club's entry. Sailing 12 races over four days in the 68-boat fleet, Ian competed in all races and won handily. This is quite an accomplishment for a nine-year-old.

We also have news about Alexandra Wollins, who has been in the afternoon class, won an art contest sponsored by the Optinews magazine. Her entry was chosen for the cover and was accompanied by an article devoted to Alexandra with an explanation of her work.

Winter is half over so we can begin to count down until spring and summer will be upon us. We look forward to another great season.