To the editor:

I think your readers might like an update on what’s happening at Tiverton Yacht Club. If you drive by our marina you will see empty slips.and empty moorings. After two years of deliberation Judge Melanie Thunberg has determined that since TYC didn’t have slips (and moorings) in 1964, it can’t have them now. The slips in question were built in 1988 with a building permit from the town and with an assent from CRMC on land that is zoned Waterfront Commercial. Anyone who owns the property, except TYC, can have a marina there. This is the last straw; we’re heading for the RI Supreme Court.

An attempt to delay this decision was denied and we were ordered to remove the boats immediately. Our request for a "stay" will not be heard until June 17, but until then TYC boat owners must go elsewhere. Local commercial marina operators have been very supportive with Brewers offering slips and Pirate Cove offering moorings.

On the bright side, TYC activities will go on as planned. The race season has already started. The spring tune-up of three races has just been finished (I was last). The pool will open as planned when school is out despite challenges from our abutters. The summer sail training will also start when school is out. Sign-ups have been at our usual level. Weekly family summer parties will be held as last year under our tent with each week having a special motif.

In spite of our own problems TYC continues to serve the community. Perhaps you have seen the pink "Opti-Class" sailboat that we’ve been leaving in various sections of town to collect food for East Bay Community Action. You may remember that admission to our annual Christmas Party collected warm clothing for the needy.

Lastly, as reported before, the club is more active than it was before the fire six years ago. A number of young enthusiastic families have joined us and are finding the club a fun organization to belong to.

Our membership chairperson, Amy Cooper, has done a fine job with our membership campaign. She may be reached at 624-7049. More information is also available at the TIverton Yacht Club website,, www.tivertonyachtclub.org.

We shall overcome!

John Brady

Portsmouth