November 4  2002 11:39 PM

Part II - California Reunion - Donny Laing 1952-1985

It was only early April but already the waters on the ocean side of Lido Isle were warm enough to surf without a wetsuit.  The beaches were crowded for this time of year and the classic wooden boat show added a festive ambiance to this small affluent island.  It seemed the most perfect spot on earth that late morning, especially after a congested drive on the 405.

Wooden vessels, especially sailing vessels were still considered the gems of the yachting world.  Fiberglass was, after all, “plastic” and fabrication techniques were still marginal back then.   Exotic materials were far too costly for marine use, but Dennis Conner was rumored to be working with aerospace engineers in his quest to retain the cup after hearing about the Aussies underwater lead "wings."  Thin aluminum hulls were still winning cup races, but not for long.

The wooden boat show attracted connoisseurs, wealthy and wishful alike, to view a delightful assortment of fresh bright work, polished chrome, teak & holly on everything from Chris Craft runabouts to old racing yachts with ever so graceful lines.  Throw in a Chinese junk or two and some pristine 80-foot motor yachts and the island became host to a floating nautical museum for the weekend.  Few were for sale, all were for show.

I found Don and Jules as if by accident when they rolled in from San Luis Obispo.  Jules was a husky blond, a sweet woman whom, I sensed, liked to be in control.  Oddly, they seemed perfect for each other, as Don still had some growing up to do.

They brought another couple, Ralph and Cindy -- A tall breaded Canadian and his wife - he a shipwright trained in Vancouver and she a teacher, I think. 

Naomi did her famous last minute “can’t make it” call to me early in the morning.  She stayed out too late dancing, and knowing her, I took it to be a valid reason.  Her presence would have been wonderful but I decided early on that I was not going to let her absence spoil the weekend.

To beat the crowds, we opted for an early dockside lunch  - chilled seafood, fruit, cheese and mimosas.   When Donny ordered the guys shots of Cuervo Añejo, I began  to see that drinking was a big part of his life.  But it was a weekend to be enjoyed.  Who cared if it was only ten-thirty in the morning?

After lunch, we toured the marina.  Don was so knowledgeable of these crafts, he could establish an instant rapport with the owners and hosts so that we had instant access of all of the show.  It was going to be an interesting weekend.