If you're missing a watch, you might have left it at IWFC recently. Drop me a note and we'll see if it's yours!
It's time to be thinking about February classes! The next Poquoson classes start February 10 and will run through April 7 (intermediate class) or April 21 (beginner class) - there will be no class on March 31 (Easter Sunday). Although Poquoson Parks and Rec hasn't sent out the new catalog yet, I've been told they're ready to take registrations now so head on over to their website or call them at 868-3580 to sign up. Remember, after completing the beginner class, you should attend club practices for at least a month before you consider taking the intermediate class. This gives you time to get comfortable with all those new skills you learned in the first class so you can focus on the new stuff in the second class without trying to remember basics like 'hand goes first!'
The next beginner class at IWFC will start on February 6 and meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 7:00 through February 27. Email or call 238-3111 to register. Details, including fees and equipment information, can be seen here.
Have a youngster between the ages of 8 and 12 that wants to give fencing a try? The Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA is offering fencing on Tuesday evenings from 5:15 to 6:00. Sessions are eight weeks long with the next one starting February 5 and ending on March 26. Contact Josh Williams to register.
I know the last Poquoson class was crazy with the holidays and storms and everything else and some of you missed more than a few classes as a result. Whether you missed classes or not, if you want some catch-up work or would like some help with anything, come to club practices on Sunday evenings from 6:00 to 8:00. That's what it's for! We get you comfortable with whatever you'd like to work on.
And now for the turtles. Well, turtle. If you've been around me for any length of time, you know we have an invisible turtle that roams around IWFC, tripping up the unwary from time to time. And it's been known to hitch a ride with me over to Poquoson, too. (Showed up last night, in fact!) This invisible turtle has become our de fact club mascot and I've been saying for ages that it needs a name so let's do it to it with a little naming competition! I'll take suggestions through the end of January either in person (write them down, don't just tell me or I won't remember) or via email. And make sure you include your name so I know whom to credit. After January 31, I'll make a list of my favorite turtle names and put them up to the membership for a vote. Whoever submits the winning name gets one month of dues free! (Note: the submitter's names will not be included in the voting list, you'll just see the proposed turtle names. Other voting rules will be announced when the names are posted.) I've heard some great suggestions so far so make sure you write them down and turn them in!
