Commodore Memorandum

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Good morning,

I would like to share with you SCOW’s COVID-19 update.

SCOW will enter Phase 1 to reopen our sailing club this Friday, June 5th.

All of the local jurisdictions in the DMV have entered some level of Phase 1 reopening. SCOW's BOD and COVID-19 Task Force have determined that it is appropriate for our Club to also reopen.

SCOW’s Phase 1 opening will have a few limitations, described here:

• All skippers and their guests must follow local jurisdictions’ Phase 1 health guidelines;
• Washington, DC - https://coronavirus.dc.gov/phaseone
• Maryland - https://governor.maryland.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Gatherings-SIXTH-AMENDED-5.13.20.pdf
• Virginia - https://www.virginia.gov/coronavirus/forwardvirginia/
• We will limit boat reservations to a single reservation each day, per boat;
• Limit of 3 people on a boat at one time. (Skipper and 2 crew);
• No raft-ups and no docking at area marinas (unless for weather/medical emergencies)
• All boats must continue to be cleaned after each use;
• All Skippers and Crew will sign an additional COVID-19 risk waiver of liability before leaving the dock;
• All Skippers will review the applicable Rub Off the Rust document(s) prior to being granted reservation system privileges. These documents and instructions will be sent to skippers today, and
• Social events, Basic and Cruiser water classes and regattas are still on hold until further notice.

Please remember that there is a level of risk with the COVID-19 virus each time you are around people outside of your immediate household. Please follow the local jurisdiction’s guidelines, your good judgement and stay safe!

Skipper Candidates - though the pace will be slower than usual, there are some tutors and checkout skippers that will be willing to work with you toward your skipper certification. Please contact Skipper Director Chip Lubsen at skipper@scow.org to let him know how ready you are to get back on the water. We will be hampered by the ongoing inability of prospects to gain experience through Social Sail and Wednesday Night Racing, but will still be supporting your progress toward skipper certification the best we can under the circumstances.

Trainees – Training Director Trueman Sharp will be working to organize on-the water training sessions as soon as it is feasible. This will be a significant challenge, but SCOW is determined to support on-the-water training as safely as possible. Stay tuned for updates from your Training Director.

As always, you are sailing at your own risk and you are responsible for your guests and crew. Your support and cooperation are greatly appreciated.

My best to you and your family!

Richard Kaiser,
Commodore