Now that I actually (and finally) have a closing date set for my new (used) boat, I thought I would be a sentimental slob and tell all of you how much I have appreciated the emotional and actual support I have received from this group since I purchased Commander #26 two years ago. She was my first boat, and I usually didn't have a clue. Between this discussion group and the excellent manual, I could usually get pointed in the right direction. More than that, though, it has really hit me that the folks who own Ariels/Commanders are a real community; I follow everyone's stories and admire the photos as I would the work of friends.
Having succumbed to two-footitis (actually, six-footitis), I find that there's no comparble web site to compare notes, ask dumb questions, etc. There's an association, but it just doesn't seem the same. (On the other hand, I can email the factory and deal with the customer service rep.) So, I find myself still checking in here occasionally even though #26 is on the hard and for sale and I will never sail her again. I will pass along the manual to her next owner and tell him/her that he/she is buying into a community, not just buying a boat.
With best wishes to all,
Al Lorman
Thanks for all the positive comments on the Associaition and the discussion forum. Sorry you must leave the group, but should you ever buy another Ariel/Commander, we will accept you back.
Been a pleasure Al. Stop back and see us often.