2004
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Ocean Planet/USA 05 Update from Bruce Schwab:
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Ocean Planet Re-launch!
More news!
What is happening inside the tent?
Come to the Wednesday morning launch and see!
Late breaking news:
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum donating all fares raised on launch day to Ocean Planet!
The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum (http://www.mngrr.org/) is based right next door to Ocean Planet here at Portland Yacht Service. It is a real fun and classic experience to ride these trains, which are usually powered by their trusty diesel/electric locomotive. However, on our launching day they are bringing out their prize steam engine locomotive in our honor! All fares raised on launch day will be donated to help out our Vendee Globe effort.
Each day is a fuzzy blur as the rush is on in a big way to be ready for Wednesday’s re-launching. Several of us have been working well past midnight for the last few days…but this is the way it has been for me all winter. There seems to be one fire drill after another, but it is all coming together. I can barely keep up with the questions from our team of volunteers and hired helpers about where this goes and how does that work, and why on earth did I do it this way….all in between TV, radio, and newspaper interviews. Seems now that Governor Baldacci is coming, the level of attention has gone up a notch. In fact, we were on the cover of the Portland Press Herald last Friday! It’s a zoo, but it sure is fun. Well, I think I may be having fun, but I’m too tired to really tell.
Remember, the launching will be between 10 and 11 a.m., and there will be a reception at 5 p.m. for all the Ocean Planet supporters and fans at The Meeting Room here at Portland Yacht Service! Also, at 5 p.m. the boat will be open for viewing and walk-throughs.
Then, join me and our team at about 8 p.m. for a sunset train ride! We will be ready to “blow off some steam,” believe me. You never know, I may bring a guitar and play John Fahey’s “The Last Steam Train”…..along with some other possible surprise music guests….;-)
It’s about time you know.
See you there!
Bruce Schwab, Skipper
USA 05/Ocean Planet