Canadian Yachting October 2016 - 62

Continued from page 61 Squadron Commander Interview the number of students! It was definitely a win-win situation." One of the most popular courses for the Alouette Squadron is the current CPS-ECP Radio course. There is a strong demand for this but Richard commented "that it is very important to take into consideration all the costs of not only the materials and the venue but also the radio card processing fees before you set your price point. We had a few surprises in the past and we don't want a repeat." Richard waxed poetically about the pristine Maple Ridge boating environment as well as pointed out that the very best fishing grounds in all of Canada were to be found at its doorstep. This quality experience means that there is a large number of boaters of all types in the area and it is his "goal to market our courses to these people and embrace the whole boating community". In an effort to reach out into the community this year the Squadron will begin doing Recreational Vessel Courtesy Checks (RVCC) and participating in a few local parades. However, social media is the favoured advertising and information tool as this approach seems to work the best and reaches the largest audience. The Squadron's recent AGM was "fantastic, as four volunteers stepped forward" to fill several essential positions. Three of those who stepped up were new to the Bridge along with one veteran. Richard was very pleased and said "The Squadron will continue!". In that light the Squadron will be busy over the next few weeks as there are several events planned including a number of cruises, pub nights and several social events. Presently the Squadron Bridge meets once a month from September through to May at various Bridge Members' homes with most meetings taking about two hours. This coming year the Educational Department will be offering a range of courses including PCOC, Boating 1, Boating 2, possibly Seamanship and the VHF Radio Course. Richard did comment "the names have changed so frequently recently, I don't know what they are officially called, but we will be actively promoting them!" In the past most of the courses attract 6 to12 students and all the courses are taught at Maple Ridge Senior Secondary School. When I asked about his vision for his Squadron Richard said, "I would simply like for the Squadron to survive for the year ahead. If we could thrive and grow, that would be wonderful!" In chatting with Richard I could feel his enthusiasm and concerns so I feel that all will be fine with Alouette in the upcoming months and I intend to revisit this Squadron in the future to see just how things are progressing. So if you find yourself out on the West Coast do contact the Squadron through their website and I am sure they will tell you the very best places to go fishing! They may even take you there or at least show you the way. THE PORT HOLE Sea Salt Galley Kat's PRESSURE COOKER TOMATO PASTA WITH TUNA & CAPERS INGREDIENTS: 2 garlic cloves, sliced 2 tbsp olive oil 15 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes red wine (to fill 1/2 of tomato tin) 2 cups pasta of choice (for this I used Orecchiette) seasonings (oregano, dried chilis) salt & pepper 3.5 oz can of solid tuna in vegetable oil 2 tbsp capers grated parmesan PREPARATION: Set cooker on brown mode. When heated add oil and garlic and lightly sauté until fragrant. Add pasta, tomatoes and seasonings. Fill 1/2 of the empty tomato can with red wine and top up with water, add to pot (this should be just enough to cover pasta). Set cooker for 6 minutes. Once done and pressure is released add tuna and capers gently tossing to combine. Serve in pasta bowls. Top with some freshly shaved parmesan and extra chilis. Perfect for two hungry sailors. Katherine Haslam, Montreal Power and Sail Squadron http://www.seasaltgalleykat.com/psta/pressure-cooker-tomato-pasta-with-tuna-capers/ 62 Canadian Yachting October 2016 http://www.seasaltgalleykat.com/psta/pressure-cooker-tomato-pasta-with-tuna-capers/

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