August 2020
Gratitude for our tenants
With sadness, I announce that for the first time in 14 years, we will not be holding our Tenant Appreciation Party. The heath and safety of our tenants is our main priority. With the uncertainties surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, we are not confident to host such a large gathering.
We promise though, as soon as we are able, we will make it up to you. We thank you for being a Grand Marina tenant and we are grateful to have you here. Together we will get through this.
Drop Off Box
Did you know that Grand Marina has a rent slot box where you can drop off your monthly checks? It is located next to the mailboxes, directly behind the “circle of flowers,” out by the parking lot and the large port hole. This way, if you are in a hurry and can’t come up to the office, you can just drop it off on your way in or out of the marina.
Farmers Market
Don’t forget about the Webster Street Farmer’s Market! Year round they always have the freshest produce, flowers and baked goods. Your neighborhood farmers’ market is your best source for delicious, fresh fruits and vegetables, all brought to you by the California farmer who planted, nurtured and harvested the crop. Be sure to bring your mask!
Every Wednesday and Saturday from 9am to 1pm. Height Ave. & Webster St.
Lock Up Your Valuables
Last month we had a few thefts around the marina parking lot. While very rare it definitely does happen.
The slow and easy life at any marina can sometimes give you a false sense of security, as if you are safer because the community is so small and most of us know one another. While our marina and Alameda in general are pretty safe, there is just no guarantee of how safe our valuables are. Thief’s will look for the easiest possible targets.
As a general practice, you should always consider break ins and keep personal belongings safe and secure. Make sure to lock up your property where ever you are. Confirm your cars and motorcycles are locked up and there is nothing in plain sight that a thief will want.
Missed Manners
Top 10 Reasons Why Boating Manners Matter
- VHF Radio – Asking for a radio check on Channel 16 is a misuse of its purpose. Go to channel 68, 69, 71, or 72. Keep conversations brief. This is a safety issue.
- Passing in a Channel – If you are a slower boat, slow down to allow a passing boat to pass quickly. If you are passing, give some thought to just waiting another few minutes if another boat is coming from the opposite direction.
- Watch the Wake! – Your wake can cause damage to boats, docks and knock someone off balance.
- The Gas or Pump out Dock – Stay nearby and monitor your fueling at all times. The longer you are docked, the longer you are making other boaters circle.
- The Boat Ramp – Get your cooler, tote bag, and other equipment before you get to the bottom of the ramp. Again, people are waiting to put their boats in or take them out.
- Anchoring – If you are the last one to arrive in the evening, take the anchor farthest out in the bay or cove. If you choose an open area where boats are already, give your neighbors plenty of room to allow for your boat’s swing during the night.
- Sailboats and Powerboats – Like red and blue states, “blow bloaters” and “stink potters” have differing views of life. Avoid fishermen who are trolling lines. Sailors also need to remember that they are considered a powerboat if the engine is on.
- Guests – Explain to your guests where their life jackets are located, how the head operates, etc. It is also acceptable to have them contribute to filling the fuel tank with gas and diesel prices these days.
- Rafting Up – The boat coming alongside should have a pair of spring lines that can be handed to crew on the boat they are tying to. Have fenders ready to be placed in position. It is considered good manners to cross from one boat to another at the bow, so as not to interfere with others in the cockpit. Ask permission before doing so.
- Know the Rules, but Don’t Push the Rules – While the boat to starboard always has the right of way when two powerboats are on an intersecting course, this doesn’t mean everyone knows the rules. So being right can sometimes be wrong if a collision is about to occur. (Article from BoatU.S. Magazine)
