Post #211522 by bungy on Mon, Jan 30, 2006 3:30 PM

hiltiki! I was only one of 3 women in the Los Angeles Harbor area that was doing any seriuos sailing during the 40's and 50's. The most famous was Peggy Slater, a friend of the family's.
Whenever I went to sea on long voyages, I was always the only gal in crew and had to become everyone's little sister! It worked! Now days gals don't have to think twice about it. At htat time, not even most of the wives of boat owners sailed! And if they did, they made themselve comfortable on deck! When I read of the 17 yera old gal who is sailing around the world... single handed, I cheer!!

Dear nephew Benjie aka Bamboo Ben!
Dwight had a lecture series for 30 years, at least, at Royce Hall UCLA, and Ebel Theater in Westwood. It wa scalled "Arm Chair Adventures". He booked sailors like Alan Villiers, Irivng Johnson, Thor Hyerdahl and many more.
He periodically gave his own lecture of his 7 years arround the world which included his WW11 experiences as a Lt. Commander on the Fighting Lady.. which he had filmed lots of.. under Leo Derochment (spelling!). Clips of his filming still play today!

Benzart! WOW! What a boat and experience.. better write this up!!
My best memories are climbing a 100 foot mast to sit on the cross tree at sunset or sunrise.. watching the brilliant colors fill the sky! It was like I owned the Universe!!!. I also, got to see the "green flash" onetime! And, a full circle rainbow under a full moon!

Freddie freelance (not freeloader??!! Red Skelton)
The Book is called "View From the Top of the Mast", and I will definitly advertise on Tiki Central! it will probably be 2-3 months more.
Am also reprinting Daddy's catalog from the Trade Winds Trading Company in 1942. It has lots of items that he made from beachcombings!

Thank you all for "listening to me talk stories"! I am having a GREAT time!!!