All the exhibitors that I spoke to were very happy with the show. The weather was absolutely fabulous, sunny and in the 70s for the most part, and so the turnout was excellent. There were many boats sold at the show, no doubt to take advantage of manufacturer discounts, but still a good sign that the economy may have turned the corner.

As for Dutchman... LMAO! Last year, I sold every boom brake that I brought, so this year I loaded up the Pontiac Vibe with every one we had. I sold two. Instead, we sold sail flaking systems as usual, but track systems sold like hotcakes. As a market genius with his finger on the pulse of the buying boat customer, I guess I ain't.

On a funny note, Bernie Jacketts and Kate were there with their beautiful Valiant 42. Bernie has only met me in person a few times and didn't recognize me when I boarded his boat.

"So..." sez I, "How does this boat compare to a Hunter?" (for those few of you who don't know bernie, he ~hates~ Hunters).

Bernie, without missing a beat, said "Hunters are great boats. Take it out sailing in heavy weather and it will break up and you'll have many small boats."

Then he recognized me, laughed, and said I got him. Good. Reeeeal good.

Many cs-bb and old Cruising World denizens stopped by my booth to say hello, got together a couple of times with a bunch, and generally had a ball.