The Pacific Northwest Class of 1960 Navy

by Nels Delisanti

The gang from the PNW have been doing a monthly lunch for years . . . with George Luck being the creative factor in coming up with unusual places, and one year it was my sailboat, Lagniappe, a 1985 Hunter 34. (to answer that question; it's a Cajun term for something extra)

We took about 6 summer cruises aboard her with various classmates and wives, starting with fresh brewed morning coffee and fresh baked cinnamon rolls, then gathered around the cockpit for chit chat and waiting for the Great Pacific Northwest morning to warm up, while Nels and the "crew" got her ready. We'd take off into the sunny, but sometimes a bit chilly, Commencement Bay. We'd get sails up, when there was wind, and would sail around the bay. I made sure that everybody got a chance to play helmsman and steer and pull on a few lines (that's sailor for ropes)

After getting the crew exhausted raising sails and pulling on ropes we head for a seaside restaurant for crew rest and nourishment.

The Sailing AdventurersNels Delisanti, Chuck Diver, George Luck, Vic Yoakum, Jim O'Rourk George wondering about the ability of the Captain to guide this ship Vic saying ;"Nels, do these people know you have no idea what your doing?"

I've had her for 24 years, and enjoy her immensely, both cruising and racing. We've been to Victoria BC a few times and most of the places in between. Longest trip was 20 days. I use her now mostly on Wed night for sailboat racing--me, occasionally Vic, and my various crewmembers don't take it serious (we're just here for a night on the water, sailing and some fun..BUT it's more fun when we beat somebody") I still manage about 20 to 25 races per summer, but I've slowed down doing the solo racing lately. In the winter she becomes my man cave. There have been a few passing through classmates that have gone out