Rob
My "beef " as you put it is that not everyone plays by the same rules. I may not like the fact that slips can be reserved for groups at Watch Hill in advance of the same day if that rule was available to every group, which is not currently. Last year two groups reserved slips in advance, the Friends of Watch Hill & the Power Squadron. At first I justified it by saying, "ok both are not for profit groups, and maybe they should get some benefits." Then I read Chill Pills post that SS3 reserved slips this year the very 1st week-end, As we all know SS3 is a for profit business and say what you want, it is a method for them to promote SS3 and hopefully sell more boats. In the posts listed here you read that another boat dealer may be having a trip to Watch Hill also, what's next on any given week end some sort of marine business reserving slips in advance to help promote their business.
The above may, I agree be reaching but if Watch Hill has a rule that there is no advance reservations, then there should be "no advanced reservations" Should they want to change that rule then advanced reservations should be available to ALL GROUPS. I may not like the advanced reservation for groups rule, but at least then it's fair to all groups, not a select few.
As far as the Friends of Watch goes I agree that they DID bust their ass to make Watch Hill a better place the first few years. Now I feel they abuse their power and do what they want. I have no problem with people enjoying the place and partying hard. My problem is once more the rule states 11pm on is quite time. 2AM to 4AM in the morning is not uncommon at there boats & docks. The music and load laughter, and yes sometimes foul language has to be stopped and they should as I mentioned lead by example. Yes people have approached the board members that party to the late hours of the morning, only to be told they were sorry and would tone it down. The next morning that person who asked them to keep it down somewhat was made to feel like he/she didn't belong at Watch Hill. Your off the cuff reply maybe then don't go to the area where the noise is a problem, sometimes those are the only slips open. And to boot the board members of the Friends of Watch Hill should lead by example, not take advantage of their power to abuse the rules.
So in closing "my beef" really is if the rule is there it is there for everyone. If I know partying until 2AM to 4AM goes on I may choose a different place. But there is a rule that should protect my comfort level after 11PM all I want done is that the rules, all the rules are followed by everyone, or no one.
