This is where we'll announce the most recent additions to our web site and newsletter. If you've visited us before and want to know what's changed, take a look here first.
Why we don't judge Thompson Boats:
Andreas and I were sent an email by Mike Gresham and Gene Porter of the ACBS asking us if we would like to give out a "best Thompson" award or some such at the national Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS) show.
Since I am not into judging, I threw the email away. Andreas sent both gentlemen a brief note saying the Thompson Marque Club does not believe in judging, does not give any awards at our Thompson rally, and has no interest in giving an award at the national meet.
This was answered by another email from both of them with the following question: If you don't believe your boats should be judged, then what criteria do you use to keep them authentic, or maybe this isn't important to you?
Here is our response. I am making this available here on the website because I think it offers a valuable perspective and history for those who are into our classics boats!
Some of you have probably noticed the site looks a little different. We have been making some behind the scenes changes around here and I have been told by my web master that is a good thing as we are keep up with technology and all.
I have not been as close to the Dockside website as I should be. The reasons are many but the bottom line is that I do care about the web site and all the folks who visit, comment, and appreciate it.
There is a place on this website called “The Boathouse”. It is here that people can advertise their boats for sale. The Boathouse is the ONLY place on the Dockside website one can advertise a boat. Dockside Views and the Misc section are for just that, views and legit questions about everything that pertains to boats, made by Thompson or otherwise.
I know that the website has been abused by a variety of folks.
I don’t know if those of you who list boats for sale on the Views or Misc sections are trying to get away without paying for an ad or just plain lazy. It doesn’t really matter except that ultimately you are cluttering up sections of the web site that should just be left alone. Those of you who think you are doing everyone a huge public service by reposting ‘Craig’s List‘ ads let me assure you - you’re not. A ‘Craig’s List’ will never be allowed on this website even if paid for.
I would urge all of you who are thinking about wanting to post an ad to get a hold of me. I will work with you. I am not a jerk. If you have a pattern boat or even if is in decent shape and you just want to get rid of it, and you really are giving it away, I will not charge you for the ad. If I tell you an ad is $40.00 and you only have $10.00 then that is what I will charge you. (Now don’t all of you start telling me you only have $10.00 I know better!)
The point here is... we are all adults. I should not have to start combing the website for folks creatively slipping an ad for their boat by phrasing things a certain way... but I am and I will and I will note who those are and if it happens more than once we’ll deal with things then.
2004 THOMPSON ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT RALLY HIGHLIGHT VIDEO. Available on either DVD or VHS videotape. Your choice for only $18.00 plus $3.00 S&H in USA. Bonus segment "How to Identify Your Thompson/Cruisers/T&T Boat" Total length for both programs is 53 minutes. Penpal, check or money order accepted. Portion of proceeds go towards Thompson Rally. Go http://www.skylightmedia.net and click on the link to order or
call 614-873-7136.
The fourth annual THOMPSON ANTIQUE & CLASSIC BOAT RALLY is set for August 13-14-15, 2004 at Nestegg Marine in Marinette, Wisconsin (six miles from Peshtigo).
If you don't have a boat, come anyway and join in the fun. The event is a blast whether you bring a boat or not. And remember, this is NOT a judged show, so who cares what condition the boat is in (if you bring one). In fact, having one before restoration or during the process is an excellent means to get lots of input and ideas.
For additional info or to receive an information packet:
Andreas Jordahl Rhude
4054 Wentworth Ave South
Minneapolis, MN 55409-1522
612-823-3990
email: ajrhude@aol.com
For questions about Thompson Boats contact TDockside@aol.com
For questions about this website contactwebmaster
