The CYC junior instructional program has gained tremendous momentum. Over $30,000 in cash and commitments have been raised as of Feb. 15.   The Junior Program Director plans to ask the club board for permission to purchase the program’s initial 12 Optimist dinghies at the March board meeting.

“The drive is still underway, and we have some people thinking about making large donations,” said Junior Staff Commodore John Rahn, who is leading the fundraising effort. “I’m also pleased to report that there are a large number of donations in smaller amounts, like $50 to $100, which helps show the interest of the membership.

“We’re very much interested in the participation and commitment of the club in general,” he added.

He said the goal is to raise another $10,000 in time to bring the total number of Optimists purchased this year to 16. The dinghies will be stored on a Shilshole float rented from the International 14 fleet.

As fundraising allows the club will add Club 420-class dinghies to the fleet for older sailors in coming years.

Sailing camps for kids are beginning in June. Exact dates and details will be announced soon on the CYC website.

In another junior-related development, CYC is hosting an Advanced Optimist Racing clinic for junior racers in Seattle April 1 – 3.

Contact the CYC Office for instructions on making your donations today.

Boeing employees and retirees can have their tax-deductible donations matched by the company by contributing through the CYC Sea Scout group. For details on that program, call the CYC office at (206) 789-1919.