Got Shipwright?

[AJ Oliver 154]

Dear Kiwi Shipwrights & Cabinet Makers -

 

How would you like to be in sunny California next year to watch

ETNZ kick some gringo billionaire ass?? Not only that, but you can

also enjoy the incredible beauty of Humboldt County's amazing redwood

forests, and other natural wonders. We provide the housing, and you

provide the skills.

 

So here is the deal, along with a bit of background information . . .

 

The Veterans for Peace is restoring the legendary sailing ketch

Golden Rule. She is a Hugh Angelman design A-30 “Alpha ketch”.

 

The Golden Rule was the very first of the environmental and

peace vessels to go to sea. In 1958, a four-person crew of Quaker

activists set sail aboard the Golden Rule in an attempt to stop

atmospheric nuclear weapons tests in the Pacific.

 

Vets for Peace intends to restore the boat and undertake a ten

year voyage in opposition to war and militarism in general, and

nuclear weapons in particular.

 

As of this writing we are moving forward briskly. We have

volunteers and shipwrights on the job daily. The hull is fully

planked and nearly faired, and is about ready for painting. Our new

Yanmar diesel engine has been installed, the deck beams are in, the

cockpit well is nearly done, and the decks are framed.

 

That is where you come in. If you support the project, there

are a number things you can do: Your Club can pass a resolution of

support and/or make a donation. We can also use skilled volunteers,

especially wooden boat shipwrights and cabinet makers. (We can

provide housing.) If you are able to hold a fund raising event, we

have lots of ideas.

 

I myself traveled 4,000 kilometers to work on the boat. I've met

some great people and seen some spectacular scenery. My wife has

been wonderfully supportive. I'm also racing on a Choate 40, and get

to hang out with Guillo the goat.

 

Our website (VFP Golden Rule Project) has information on where

to donate, other items that we need, and further updates on our

progress.

 

As George Orwell observed, "Whoever controls the past, controls

the future." We see the Golden Rule Project as a vital part of our

effort to both redefine the past, and influence the world that is

aborning. It falls to us.

 

Feel free to contact me for more information.

 

AJ Oliver for the Golden Rule Restoration Committee