On Saturday February 17th 155 people attended the Winter Workshop at Clarion Boat Works in Campbellford. Dwight Boyd, a generous contributor to ACBS, opened his doors for the second year in a row. Thanks to Sam and Patrick Wren, Ship Stores was also there to meet members needs.
Patricia Ross, who runs an excellent boat finishing business in Gravenhurst and Dwight Boyd began the day. We had an interesting discussion on what it takes to achieve a mirror like finish. The discussion included techniques for sanding, staining and varnishing. We enjoyed an animated talk on oil or alcohol based stain, the need or no need to sand between coats, and use of high quality badger hair brushes for finals. The many questions from the audience demonstrated the knowledge of both Dwight and Patricia.
Ken Kirk, who has done extensive research into the invention of the Outboard Motor, gave us an informative presentation on the hundred year history to the 1950's. The early inventors had strong visions while some lacked the ability to have a practical use. One early electric motor, required two hundred pounds of batteries to function. The spirit and leadership of these early inventors have resulted in today's products and our enjoyment of outboard motors. Ken's presentation was a fine backdrop to this year's theme, "The year of the Outboard". Many of these motors are on display today at Grace and Speed Heritage Center in Gravenhurst and the ACBS Summer Boat Show will bring this history alive.
Following a great catered hot lunch, the Trent Severn Club announced on September 27th 2007 there will be a tour of Garage Workshops, followed by a tour of the Canoe Museum in Peterborough, an event to look forward to.
We enjoyed Ron Stevenson's talk about his collection of early outboards. Ron described the restoration process demonstrating the before and after on two of his models. He told us the touching story of his acquisition of a most prized possession from the Sagamo in Gravenhurst. Ron explanation of the function of early carburetors, engine blocks and the importance of the correct mixture of oil and gas enlightened all. We then learned of the story of Rick Terry and Mike Windsor's development and construction of the launch that Rick is building. For 25 years Rick has had the dream to build a boat. With a yellowed copy of the original plans for a Hacker boat he asked Mike's advice for a boat designed to his needs. Mike with his skills in boat building and computer aided design and production provided Rick with his modified Hacker design. Hacker an American designer, left his imprint on outstanding boat builders of Muskoka including Minett. Rick showed us his excellent progress to date. We look forward to continual updates and the ultimate launch of a dream come true.
The event finished with final questions to the expert panel, concluding an excellent day of networking and learning for those attending the 2007 Winter Workshop. | 
