November
2009
November 30, 2009
I really appreciate all the effort that must go into producing your
surf blog each week. Great stuff!
The
main reason Im e-mailing you is to let you know that I got to
surf with our mutual friend, Rick Aho down here in So. Florida on Saturday
Nov. 21st . It was about 3 5 ft, pretty strong and clean. After
waiting out some long lulls (10 15 min.) youd be rewarded
with sets that had an amazing number of waves to them. Im talking
8 14 waves in a set, warm, crystal clear water and offshore winds.
Rick and I are old friends, both in our fifties and both continue to
ride shortboards (when conditions allow). He told me hed been
up your way to catch some swell from hurricane Bill and said it was
quite good. We started talking about your surf blog. I told him Id
been checking it out for a couple of years after our friend Bud Combs
told me to go on it and check out the photos of Hapless Harold Hardcore
(Lenny Nichols) and family. Please tell Lenny, Arlene and Crump (Kevin
Doc Grondin) that Glenn McDonald said to say hello!
(Hows that for some old nicknames?) Oh yeah, and that rascal Mike
Paugh, give him a friendly slap on the back for me.
Im Florida born and raised but had the good fortune of being in
a family that had a summer home on Long Beach Island, N.J. (Beach Haven).
Both
my older brothers surfed so when I was about 5 or 6 they took me to
the beach at the end of the block and started pushing me into waves.
I still have the first board I stood up on (Greg Noll 10 2),
Unfortunately, it is NOT Da Cat model.
I never thought there were waves in Florida cuz every time my
mom would take me to the beach down here, itd be flat. Of course,
shed only go when the weather was calm and ocean was generally
flat. Then one time we went, I think I was about 8, and there was a
perfect little 2 ft north swell running. I freaked, holy crap, Florida
does get surf. So I started peddling my bike, board under arm, to the
beach every chance I got.
That summer home in N.J. is what gave me a distinct advantage over a
majority of my surfing peers in Florida. Every year in June as soon
as school was out, wed leave the next day and drive to N.J. There
always seemed to be waves in N.J. Id surf nearly everyday. The
day after Labor Day wed pack it up and head back to Florida. Once
there, Id ask my friends if they got much surf over the summer.
Theyd look dejected and say there were like two days of little
wind slop. I started to realize how lucky I was. The other surfers in
the area that would excel would generally do so because they got the
hell out of Florida during June, July and most of August.
Im kinda surprised our paths hadnt crossed in the B.V.I.
in the late 70s. I think my first trip there was in 79.
After telling my older brother of the beauty of the place and its
waves, he began to travel there. In 89 he purchased a piece of
property over looking Little Apple Bay and built a vacation home. Had
a local builder do the main structure and had us (family, surfers and
friends) do all the finish work. I got to spend a fair amount of time
there in the off season (usually October or April). This is typically
the time of year before the seasonal surfers arrive and the winds are
more S.E. as opposed to the mid-winter N.E. trades. I surfed so many
perfect days, a lot of times completely alone. Not even anyone on the
beach. Just some goats standing around Bombas Shack watching me
gorge myself on waves. Memories! Think I go make some more.
Anyway, I feel like I know you Ralph. Kevin and Lenny used to talk about
you all the time Have another meatball, Ralphie boy!
Keep up the good work Ralph.
Aloha!
Glenn McDonald
Delray Beach, Fl.
P.S. Good Doc story. Its late 70s hanging
around one evening and somehow Kevin and I decide were going to
skateboard, this is when skate parks were all the rage. 20-30 minutes
into the session he eats it and tweaks the knuckle on his ring finger.
Session over, back to my place and Kevin is kind of grimacing and doing
the Whoa is me scene because the finger is now swelling
and he cant get the ring off. So we set about cutting the ring
off his finger using my dads bench vise and hacksaw. Between the
heat that would result from the friction of the hacksaw motion and Kevin
just freaking, he lets out a couple of yells. This brings my dad out
of the house and he joins in to help. We eventually got that ring cut
off and as far as I know Doc still has all his fingers.
Next time you see him ask him if he remembers that one.
Wow
Glenn...that's quite the email to find first thing this morning. Thank
you for the kind words. After reading your story I now feel as though
I know you. It's funny how we both have some of the same close friends
but have never crossed paths. I guess the Surfing world is bigger than
we both think. I will tell the boys you said hello. Please do the same.
Send me some old pics if you have any. My readers love the old stuff.
Keep Surfing Glenn! No matter what...Keep surfing...
Ralph
P.S. How the hell did you know that line from my old band's song "Mama
Mia"?
November
28, 2009
Hey Mr. Fatello,
I
was just checking out your pics of the week and watched the trailer
for your
new movie "Run". The movie looks unreal and I cant wait for
it to be finished. I
also just thought I'd let you know if it was not for your website then
getting
through the winter away from home would be 10 times as hard. I did not
get to
go home for thanksgiving and will only be home christmas day because
of my
demanding basketball shcedule, so not getting to see my family, friends,
and
hometown as much as I would like to takes its toll. But being able to
see the
pictures you have on your site and the videos keeps me going through
the year
knowing when the summertime comes I will be back in my atmosphere with
the
people I love and the place I love most. Aside from my gratefulness
for your
site, I really was just wondering what the name of the song is in the
"Run"
trailer? And if it is on itunes or what not, it is an amazing song and
it fit the
trailer real well.
Hope
all is well in the town as well as the surf community at home,
Nick
Nick:
Thanks
for the kind words about the site and content.
The song for the trailer is by QWILL he has an Ad
on my site and you can find out more about that song
and others. The song is called "Matter of Time".
QWILL is super talented and he loves surfing.
He's also my nephew.
Thanks
again, look for the RUN to be out by the end of this week.
Keep
surfing and i hope you find your way back home.
Ralph
November
18, 2009
The paddle out for Sgt. Charlie Cartwright was excellent in all aspects,
couldn't have been better. Folks from all backgrounds attended the memorial
at Church's beach, people who knew Charlie and people who didn't, civilians,
active duty military and veterans of all ages. A surfboard laid on the
beach in front of an easel with Charlie's picture on it. The surfboard
was the board that Charlie first learned surf on. The weather was spectacular,
calm winds, a light, high overcast and waist high point waves peeling
right in front.
War sucks, it unbelievable to me that we must fight wars at the expense
of human lives, especially for motivations that we may not always agree
with, but our military men and women are always the one to take the
stand and sometimes die.
These warriors are the ones who represent our country. Not us, the average
citizen as we enjoy our morning Starbucks and pontificate about what
we think our country should be doing and how it should be run. Certainly
not the politician who gives in to special interest BS, sometimes at
the expense of human lives.
Yesterday, Charlie's spirit, and the young men like him that were there
... I truly felt like I was hanging out a bunch of true heroes' that
I was not worthy to be among. These guys, these special ops bad asses
who are willing to fight, kill, and die for me... After yesterday I
felt in a much more personal way, the true meaning of Veterans Day.
Our country, my family and our way of are precious and we must protect
it.
Thank you Sgt.Cartwright for your life. Both the relatively short life
you lived among us and the gifts you've left behind.
Ty Ponder (California)
Nice
tribute Ty. Semper Fi Charlie. Another Marine guarding the Gates of
Heaven.
Ralph
November 18, 2009
Dear Ralph, In January of 1980 I paddled out alone at Fox Hill. I had
told my boss I felt sick and could I go home? A Northeaster had turned
around that morning and I was in the water by 1. Just me and it was
15 degrees. The waves were still unruly, not yet cleaned up, and giant.
I got a couple of scary drops and got pounded. I decided to go in on
the next wave and saw that a surfer was traversing the rocks on his
way out. On the horizon I saw a black blob approaching and scratched
outside. As it reached me I paddled wicked hard and caught it, angled
right on my drop, made it to the trough, pulled up in a little, and
looked down the line. There wasn't a line. Twenty yards ahead the wave
was throwing. As I flew across the face the lip hit the trough and I
saw clearly through a barrel that could easily fit a pick-up truck.
I could see the tall house at the Adrian's Right corner (Adrian's named
and ridden by Barry Rinderer in the late sixties). This idyllic view
was harshly interrupted as I got coldconked by the same throwing lip
and was driven underwater. I thought that was all but then I had a sensation
of rising. Indeed, I was rising back up the wave's face and was thrown
down again into the trough and driven to the rock garden. Fortunately
my orange helmet protected my head and the duck tape kept my suit from
blowing apart. I surfaced in a big froth of soup and soon proned in
glancing at the horrified face of the surfer now paddling out. It was
John Grady. A guy ran to me when I got to my car. It was Peter Allen
and he had his camera. "I got it!" he said. I have 2 black
and whites of that wave that Peter developed himself. I can only find
one and right now that's lost too. However, Paul Hamblet has a Xerox
8 1/2 X 11 of it on his refrigerator. He has seen the bottom turn pic
of Stevie and he insists my wave is slightly bigger. Stevie's wave is
definitely prettier. My wave is forboding and scary and dark and I rode
it. Sincerely, Stan PS another giant but unphotographed day: Greg Smith
and I had to walk a mile to get to the Roks and avoid the National Guardsmen
patrolling the area after the blizzard of 1978. Photographed but never
seen: Surfer Crow and I after a Northeaster in winter 1968, me on my
Bob Cooper Blue Machine (Bob's personal board) and a Sports Illustrated
photographer took pix but only published a little headshot of Crow in
the 'who's who' section at the back of the magazine. The article never
made it to press.
Stan B.
Great Stories Stan...but I need the proof. Find that lost photo, or
get me the photo copy that Paul has and I'll scan it and post it and
we'll let the readers decide. Sounds like an interesting debate ahead...Biggest
NH wave. Stan or Stevie? You decide.
Thanks
Ralph
November 17, 2009
Ralph-
I really enjoyed the past 2 newsletters! Top notch stuff! Very crazy
to
read the full story about the invisible surfer. Just as crazy to see
the
consistent and sizable waves you've been getting all year. In New
England! Love it.
Cheers,
Ben (California)
Thanks
Ben. The Invisible man series had lots of people talking and laughing.
I actually did one off your pics this coming week.
November 16, 2009
Ralph,
You
crack me up! Great sense of humor! I know therell be at least
a couple of laughs every Monday morning!
Congratulations
to Max and Jesse for making it to the Championship Game on Saturday!
Good luck to both of them this week!
Chris
Thanks
Chris
November 15, 2009
Loved it (Veterans Day Blog) Ralph - great writing and I hope it is
read by a lot of the under 30 surfers.
As you know, I lived in Taiwan during the VN war and your blog just
hits a lot of chords.
I have one thought that I have purposely not shared as I think most
will not get it.....it has to do with my distaste for the popular notion
that the Vietnam war was "immoral".
Recently, I read the book "Mao" which is a long and detailed
historic tome published by Random House in 2007. Having lived in Asia
for 8 years, I felt I needed to dig in more on this guy to really get
a good historic perspective - WOW, what a read and story.
Here is what nobody ever points out when discussions about the morality
of Vietnam comes up:
Mao was out to get us - literally. He spent billions trying to overthrow
the US, including funding the shit out of the VC.
He funded the Khemier Rouge resulting in the massacre of millions in
Cambodia and Laos.
Killed over 70 million of his fellow Chinese trying to push his version
of communism through the world - and a large effort was pointed at the
US
Given the social atmospher of the 70s - our system and way of life was
under threat by the lunatic
Vietnam was our front against a very very very real communist threat
- not coming from the Soviet Union, but coming from China.
You guys that served in Vietnam served in one of the most important
and MORAL conflicts in our country's history. In these times where people
no longer wish to spend the time gathering facts and details (reading
substantive material is a good start), few will understand the importance
of our Vietnam veterans. It will get clouded in the social unrest of
the 70's.
I just wish people could understand that we had a monster in Chairman
Mao after us and you guys that served in Vietnam very much saved us
from this bastard. As always, you have my respect and best to all the
vets you mentioned.
Regards,
Stan (working away in Panama)
Thanks
Stan. The Vietnam war has had more books and movies made about that
10 year conflict, but one of the most overlooked historiacl facts is
the Chairman Mao connection. Thanks for pointing that out. I still feel
that we abandoned those people in 1975. We turned a blind eye to the
horror that followed. Cambodia, Re-Education Camps with millions killed,
and finally the exodus of the Boat People. Millions displaced innocent
civilians. There is evil in this world. And we must be in constant check
and be forever vigil to it's poison.
Thanks again Stan and keep us informed on your progress down in Surf
land.
Ralph
November
13, 2009
Hey Ralph,
#1,
Thanks for your service. I've emailed you before, but my Dad was a Marine
(20 years) and fought in Korea, and I think back to the sacrifices he
and all his buddies made. It's literally giving up your life for your
country and we need to do more for our troops when they come back.
On
to the less significant: with this swell coming in, Magic has a breaking
wave estimate of 19 ft, triple overhead, leading me to the question,
what do you think the biggest wave surfed in NH is? Anyone good guesses
or maybe at least a tall tale or 2?
Thanks again Ralph for your service (and an awesome web site).
-Al
Thanks Al. Tell your dad I said thanks for his service and a Happy Birthday
(234th USMC Birthday 10-10-09). The biggest wave I have ever seen surfed
in NH was by Sean McCassic back a few years ago. Dead of winter at the
Rocks. Snow/sleet nasty. That wave was way over double-overhead. Easily
triple overhead. No photos exist of that wave. The Biggest wave ever
photographed in NH was of Stevie O'Hara at Fox Hill back in the late
90's. Not sure who took the photo. I'll try and dig it up.
Thanks again.
Ralph
November
12, 2009
Ralph,
Liz and I want to thank you for your continuing service to our great
country.
Thanks so much for the sacrifices you have made for the freedom which
we enjoy every day in the USA.
I have many friends and customers who are veterans or families of vets.Liz
and I pray for the safety of all active military.
We can never take our freedom for granted.
Thanks for your weekly commentary and photos .
I have not surfed much lately ... I am working alot.
Here's a photo from my last trip to the coast.
Thanks Brother and
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Tony and Liz (California)
Thanks
Guys
November 12, 2009
Hi Ralph,
Looked at your web site and you are right. We did not give the guys
coming home fram Nam the response we should have. So thank you for keeping
me safe and free and my children and grand-daughter safe and free.I
should have voiced my thanks more often and going forward I will be
better at it.
Just want to let you know,coming home from Florida this July we had
to change planes in Atlanta. The airport was filled with servicemen.
I overheard two talking as they were about to board the plane to Boston.
They were going home after a tour in Iraq. They were babies, couldn't
have been more than 20-21. I thanked them.
We were in Myrtle Beach in October at the House of Blues gospel brunch.
A family from Penn. was there and their son had just come home from
Iraq. The place exploded with applause and cheers for this young man.The
gospel group started singing Gos Bless America and everyone joined in.
It was moving. So thank you and all those who served our country to
keep us free.
Pat
Thanks
Pat.
November 12, 2009
Hi Ralph,
NICE
PHOTO OF YOU AND YR. DAD
Great videos THANK YOU ALSO, AND FOR YOUR CONTINUING OF ALL THE GREAT
WORK YOU STILL DO FOR OUR VETERANS.
MB
Thanks
Mike
November 12, 2009
Great Job yesterday Ralph.You know that picture of us all on the cliff
at Swamis is priceless.The stories behind the characters ...wow.
Should be an exciting weekend for surf. I am thinking that Kenebunk
may be the place. Whats your tip?
Aloha, Tom
PS We leave for Kauai on the 19th
Thanks
Tom...hope you get some good surf. Aloha.
November 12, 2009
If it's the thought that counts, I thought to email you regarding the
Marine Corps anniversary and then I thought to email you about Veteran's
Day.
So
while I didn't actually email you to commemorate those events, I did
think about it!
mo
Thanks
Mo...close enough for me.
November 12, 2009
Hi Ralph,
The boys know the story of you and your fallen brother, Joe. They know
what you faced at age 17 and what you faced upon your return from Vietnam.
They know that you and Joe pioneered and named most of the breaks along
the coast. When we watch your movies, Elliot, 4, understands all these
things and talks about the things I've taught him about you and the
heritage of surfing NH. I'm really looking forward to the spring and
getting the boys back in the water. Hope you and your family are well
have a great holiday season.
Your Friend,
Jon A
Thanks
Jon. There's nothing like surfing with your kids.
November 11, 2009
Ralph,
Saw
your latest column
I still tune in just to see how the hometown
crew is doing.
I
must take issue with the Fort Hood attacks you brought up. Im
sure you wont want to hear this, but this is NOT a terrorist attack.
It
is a crime.
I
know the world has lost sight of the difference between simple criminal
acts and terrorist acts, but just to set the record straight,
there was nothing terrorist about this. Just a deranged mind come terribly
unhinged, and a slew of criminal acts soon followed.
I
dont expect you to believe any of this, but Im just weighing
in from the Left Coast.
Jeff
Jeff:
Try and pay attention here. Major
Coward Nidal Malik Hasan
communicated with known Terrorists in several dozen emails, had Terrorists
business cards, had publicly spoken out against the Global War on
Terrorism while in a Medical Classroom, including; claiming that
Suicide Bombers were heroes. And finally, this scumbag Major
Coward Nidal Malik Hasan chanted
"Allah Arkbar" as he shot unarmed Military
personnel. Hello? This was not the act of a Terrorist? Huh? It's not
Terrorism-it's a crime?
Excuse me, but isn't Terrorism a crime in the first place? I mean hello?
I am not going to generalize about the Left Coast being too out of touch
with reality and leaning too far to the "Left" because that
would be wrong. Especially in light of the fact that I got several emails
and just as many phone calls from friends and fellow surfers out there,
thanking me and my fellow Veterans on this day. Veterans Day.
I am reminded of the email you sent me on the same day that our country
was under attack from the very likes of your "criminal" Major
Coward Nidal Malik Hasan.
Do you remember that day Jeff? It was September 11, 2001. The
country was numb with shock. It was all any of us could think and talk
about. But not you. I will never forget the email you sent that day.
Complaining about the crowd at some surf break out there. Are you kidding
me? Are you that out of touch with reality? Listen up Mr. Politically
Correct Left Coast loser.
It was an act of Terrorism. Domestic Terrorism. Major
Coward Nidal Malik Hasan.is
a Terrorist. You freaking bonehead idiot...get yer head out of yer ass
and wake the f--k up.
If it walks like a duck, and quacks likes a duck, chances are- it's
a freakin duck!
Ralph
November 11, 2009
Happy Veterans Day Ralph. Thank You
Scott
Thanks
Scott
November 11, 2009
Wow. I don't know how you guys do it. The things you've seen, things
you've done for our country. You're our frontline. It blows my mind
the courage it takes to go through what you went through. You and all
your brothers are the reason I'm safe. I thank every soldier I see and
thank the USMC for every freedom I have.
What you did for Veterans day with your site was perfect, heart breaking
and hopefully eye opening to whom ever saw it.
Thank you
Jamie
Thanks
Jamie
November 11, 2009
Ralph,
I thought it was too late to call. Thanks for your service. Freedom,
I wouldnt want to know a life any other way.
Happy
Veterans Day
Crop
Thanks
Crop.
November 11, 2009
Ralph:
Just wanted to let you know that I was thinking about you today. Thank
you for your service to our country and to everyone else who has done
the same. I worked a double today and we were so busy because of the
Holiday that I didn't get a chance to call you earlier. So again, thank
you and I love you!
Evamarie
Thanks
Sis.
November 11, 2009
Hey Ralph -
Hope you get this in time.
Thanks for doing what you did (and do.)
I just had a bite to eat at Applebee's where they offered free meals
to vets. I had the opportunity to shake a few hands and thank a few
old timers. One guy was so old. (How old was he?) He was sooo old, I
almost asked if he was in WWI. A real nice guy. It made my day when
he put one hand on my shoulder, shook my hand, stared me right in the
eyes and thanked me? Shit, I never saw battle. I'm so not worthy.
A guy like you on the other hand deserves any thanks you receive today
so THANKS!
John (California)
Thanks
John. But that old vet was right. You served our country with honor.
So Thank you too. I hope you got some good surf today.
November 11, 2009
A
quick note to thank you and your family for all of your service, vigor,
youth and inspiration brought to the community of Hampton, the Seacoast
and the State of New Hampshire.
This
is not of the Marine LtCol or Coast Guard Petty Officer view point .
Rather as a NH native, a denizen of the Massachusetts South Shore for
ten years, Hampton Academy, Winnacunnet , UNH Grad, , NH business owner,
father, grandfather; in general, a guy that has been around the block,
been to night school and like you, settled in Hampton.
The
high level of achievement, success and service your family executes
to include preceding generations on both the Corys and the Fatello
DNA chain is truly remarkable.
Keep
your pack on. You are the best.
Good
fortune to your Warrior this weekend.
SF
Phil
Thanks
Phil and Semper Fi to you as well.
November 11, 2009
Ralph-
I was thinking of you today being veterans day, and i just wanted to
say thank you for your past service for our country and for your current
service in the war against kooks. PREECIATE IT. My mother wrote a piece
about a friend of hers @ rye reflections. com. i thought you might enjoy
it. Vets come in all shapes and sizes.
mahalos
Alex
Thanks
Alex. I just read that...it was really good. Lots of women served our
country yesterday and today.
November 11, 2009
hey ralph happy veterans day and thank you. i was wondering if you would
know how to get in touch with ed o'connell in order to purchase a high
res. copy of a picture he shot for your column this week? thanks again
and as usual i love the column. im not just buttering you up, its refreshing
to know that there are people who actually think logically in the northeast.
todd
Thanks
Todd. Just click on Ed's ad on my column and you can reach him via email.
November 11, 2009
Ralph Sir,
Just wanted to acknowledge and thank you for your service to America.
I hope your day is filled with enjoying a sunny, warm day of tropical
water on the New Hamshire Shores (doesn't hurt to dream a little).
We have had a rather shitty fall. Didn't get any quality surf until
last week. Hopefully it will kick in gear. Hard to get in shape when
you can't surf.
Last weekend we had just a stupidly big swell. The good news is there
are places you can run for cover and enjoy a day in the water without
getting killed..
Here is a photo of Pt Reyes, this was taken from the road a 1/2 mile
away. There is nothing here for scale but I would say easily 25-30'.
The buoys were reading 20' 20seconds. Was just magnificient.
Have a good one.
Rocky
Thanks
Rocky. Thinking of your dad and my dad today. Wait...25-30' faces? WTF???
November 11, 2009
Thanks Ralph. I hope you and your family are doing great.
Jack
F.
Thanks
Jack.
November 11, 2009
Happy Veteran's Day Ralph - and thanks so much for your service. This
day always makes me reflect on the shear guts and loyalty for our country
you guys/women who have served/keep serving have. I and everyone else
in the US are very lucky for having people like you out there who put
their lives on the line for this awesome country. And it is an awesome
country. When I was a kid I used to lie in bed sometimes just wondering
how I was lucky enough to be born in the US and not some other country.
I was/am lucky - but why the US is this way and why it stays this way
is not luck; It is the result of a government with the right/good humanity
driven principles and the brave soldier who keep doing what needs to
be done to keep it that way and all of us safe.
I
love your newsletter this week - all the stories and photos of your
fellow veteran friends and family members. Really great piece.
Again - Happy Veterans Day and many thanks to you Ralph! And I extend
that to John Carden, Ed O'Connell ...all your other buddies up there
who served - and to your friend Joe who I'm sure is looking down on
you guys today/ with you in spirit.
Hannah
Thanks
Hannah. Joe was a special person.
November
11, 2009
Big shout out to all the vets who have made it possible for us to go
where we want and do what we want.
THANKS
G.
Thanks
G.
November 11, 2009
Hi Ralph
Wanted
to shoot you a quick thank you for your service to our country.
I hope you enjoy your well deserved day!
Kevin
D.
Thanks
Kevin.
November 11, 2009
Ralph:
Happy
Veterans Day, thanks for your service and for all you do for Veterans
from every branch of service and from every war and conflict. Your comment
in this weeks column about the Veterans situation in the 70s
was very accurate. Its
because of the work you and people like you have done that the situation
is different today.
Thanks
Again
Ed
Thanks
Ed and thank you for your service. I'm glad you made it back.
November 11, 2009
Good Morning Ralph,
Its
pretty incredible what is happening to this country. Men like you have
fought for the United States of America to protect us and keep us free.
Free from the tyranny that others would like to have imposed on us.
As we listen to the President read words he does not believe today,
know that the vast majority of Americans truly thank you for your service
today. Especially me
Thank
you Ralph,
Johnny
Thanks
Johnny.
November 11, 2009
Good Morning Ralph,
Happy
Veterans Day! Thank you very much for what you did/have done for our
country!
I
was hoping...like everyone else for a little session this morning, but
no such luck, maybe this afternoon. Again, thank you very much and I
hope you have a great day!
N8
Thanks
Nate same to you.
November 11, 2009
Happy Veterans Day Ralph. Thank you for your service to our Nation.
My Father attended a Veterans event at the Marston School yesterday
with his Grandson.
He was very impressed, and had a great time. I told him it was you,
most likely, running the show. He was so happy he attended.
Thanks,
Christos
Thanks. Christos.
November 10, 2009
Ralph,
I've got some fun afternoon session images from this past Sunday up
at
Rincon! Talk about a cool surf break. I'd never been there before, but
it definitely lives up to all the hype and beyond!
-bg
Can't
wait to see what you got.
November 10, 2009
Happy Birthday USMC. November 10, 1775. Thank you for serving our
country Ralph.
Jamie
Thanks
Jamie.
November 10, 2009
Ralph
Tom sent me your article. And now if you check the e-mail all the restuarants
are wanting to feed us for free-- at least out here-- where were they
40 years ago??? Any way I enjoyed your piece. When you see Tom tomorrow
give him a hug for me. I'll have two surfers hugging each others and
the locals will wonder what's up.
Ron
Thanks
Ron. Hope you get some waves out there in California. I'll be seeing
Tom. Hard to believe it's over 40 years ago huh? Thank you for your
service as well. God Bless.
Ralph
November 10, 2009
Ralph,
Please accept my gratitude for your service. I am also fortunate to
still have my Dad, (WWII -Navy - South Pacific), nephew U.S. Air Force,
and many friends who also will get to celebrate this day.
Hope you get some special waves tomorrow.
Our friend, Col. Collins (USMC) will be retiring in a ceremony aboard
the U.S.S. Constitution later this month. Was out surfing with Joe and
one of his sons a couple weeks ago. You will see him soon, I am sure,
as he picked up some winter rubber and is looking forward to riding
his longboard. He was out at Camp Pendleton last week, but did not have
time to surf.
Dave
P.S.
I grew up on the North Shore, and had the misfortune to also have had
run-ins with 'Pirate' Jonas. Heard all the stories, mostly the one about
how he was the model for the GI Joe doll. As long as I do not run into
him again, all will be fine.
Thanks
Dave. Keep yer eyes open for that mean old Pirate...
November
10, 2009
Thinking of you today as I am teaching a lesson reflecting on Veterans
Day
Great column honoring vets this week
interesting how our local photogs are all vets well almost all
Good Luck to Max for sat.
Skip
Thanks.
November 10, 2009
Most of me thinks I shouldn't bother sending this. I know you only well
enough to nod to. I'm old enough to be a Vietnam vet, but I'm not a
vet.
I have very mixed feelings about that. I really did not want to go to
Vietnam,
but my brother and I have always had a kind of survivors guilt about
the whole thing. My brother reads everything about the war. I've been
aware forever that many who came back whole in body were wounded
in spirit. I sat on the back of a boat in Mexico decades ago talking
to
a Vietnam vet. It was clear he was having trouble. People were
avoiding him. I sat down next to him and we talked. He was looking
at the tropical Mexican shore and getting flashbacks. I could not
possibly know what was going on inside him. I wasn't there. But I knew
he didn't want to be alone just then. We talked. He got through it,
at least for a while.
The first time I became aware of the treatment vets returning from
Vietnam were getting back in the day, I thought: WTF?
I
don't always agree with you. Sometimes I think, whoa, Ralph, that's
a bit strong. But mostly I think, hey, this is the thinking of a vet
who
came out intact. I do not have those experiences. I do not, and
now never will, have a spirit honed by brotherhood under extreme
hazard. If my opinions are occasionally different than yours, that does
not mean you're wrong. It may very well mean I don't have the context
to offer a well formed opinion.
I've
seen your view of Obama soften while at the same time mine
has somewhat hardened. I think Afghanistan is being undersupported,
but I've never understood why we allow this corrupt nation to continue
to flood the world with narcotics. We could wipe out their poppie fields
any time we wanted (again, I may not have a clue, but how hard is
it to kill a plant? The Taliban are not defeated because they offer
an
alternative to the corruption, albeit a totally extremist fringe alternative.
Hitler did the same thing during the Great Depression.).
Anyway,
before I say something really stupid (maybe I already have),
let me just say, thanks, and
Happy
Veteran's Day.
Geoffrey
Thank you very much Geoff. For the record 90% of my friends who surf
are not Veterans.
As far as my opinions well what can I say? I've never been one for mincing
words.
But seriously Geoff thanks for taking the time to write me.
I really enjoyed reading your thoughts.
Ralph
November 10, 2009
Ralph,
Happy Birthday to you and all United Stated Marines!
Thank you for your service.
The Stecchi Family.
Thank
you and a BIG Semper Fi to your dad .
Ralph
November 9, 2009
Ralph what can I say I can't stay away from your blog...I admit I snuck
on
today! Oh well old habits die hard. I just wish you wouldn't always
write
in such absolutes. You say that when you got back from Vietnam especially
students and teachers "left wing liberals" were bastards to
you. I just
wish you would say "some" liberal left wing students and teachers
were assholes
I was a student and I have some liberal views but if I was around
then I can say I would never have spit in your face or treated you poorly.
Let's just stop labeling everyone and putting everyone into groups.
Thanks for the spirited debate! I will think of you and you and your
father on Wednesday. Also while we are on the good vibes let's pray
for
my best friend Mark K. a local Seacoast surfer (he surfs at Straw's
and
Jenness mostly when he is home) who has to go back to Iraq next week.
He
is out of the Army but works for a contractor.
-Trevor
You're
right . I never meant to say that all college student and professors
were bastards. I had plenty of friends who were both. Sorry for the
misconception. Thanks Trevor I'll think of your dad as well, and I will
add your buddy Mark to my prayer list.
Ralph
November 9, 2009
Thanks for helping to keep the community up here connected. Your collumn
is a big part of that. Heres
to some surf!
Christian
Thanks
I'll surf to that.
Ralph
November
9, 2009
Thank you for an outstanding Veterans Day column. Joe (and so many
others) was certainly a hero. I wish I could have known him.
Thank you for your service. Will we have any surf this week? "Ida"
know!
Looks
to be HUGE. And I have to shoot all weekend. Sux.
With
regards,
John
Thanks
John and thank you for your service.
Ralph
November 9, 2009
Hello,
The paddle out memorial for Charlie Cartwright will be at 1:00 on this
Veterans Day, Wednesday at Church's Beach, (just north of San Onofre
State Beach).
The easiest access is on Camp Pendelton through the San Onofre gate.
Exit on Basilone Rd., go through the gate and turn right on Beach Club
road to the beach area.
Greg Murray, which is no longer in the military, tells me that he gets
on base routinely now by just telling the gate guard that he's going
surfing and they check his drivers license. He says that you should
be able to get on base by showing your drivers license and telling them
that you are going to a memorial service at the beach campgrounds. If
theirs a problem, you can park at San Onofre and walk the 1/4 mile north
to Churchs. many surfers do this every day to surf.
Don't forget you surfboard and wetsuit!
I can get on base no problem and I am happy to carry as many as possible
in my van, first come first served, email me and I'll make arrangements
for us to meet somewhere in Encinitas at around 11:45. If anyone else
can get on base routinely, please let me know and we'll accommodate
as many as possible.
I have attached a picture of Charlie and his wife Marissa when I met
them for the first time several years ago.
Please join us if you can to honor our fallen friend, Charlie (Chuck)
Cartwright. It will be a great way to celebrate those who gave all they
have to give on this Veterans Day.
Thanks,
Ty
Our thoughts and prayers
are with this brave Marine's family and friends. Tomorrow is the Marine
Corps Birthday. 234 years old. We'll toast Sgt Cartwright at the ball.
Semper
Fi Sgt Cartwright.
Ralph
November 9, 2009
Hey Brotha,
It is hard to believe it has been 12 months since I wrote basically
the same e-mail, but once again thank you for your service all those
years back and for your continued service every day to all those who
protect us now.
Luckily we all have people like you to remind us all to never forget
and always say thanks to all who have served (and not just on Veterans
Day)
Once again Ralph, thanks for all you do for all of us all the time
..Vini
Thank you Vini.
November
3, 2009
Hey Ralph,
Hey That picture you took of that sunset on
the pic of the week that's up right now is F'n awesome! Great work!
Jamie
Thanks Jamie.
November 3, 2009
Hey Ralph,
I am a local surfer who has moved to New Zealand. Plan to be here for
a year or two. So far Waves have been Amazing. I am just starting to
take photos, an ametuer. Thought I would send you a note and see about
sending pics. The people in the photos will be unknown, unless of course
I can get someone to shoot me. However, it may inspire some locals to
take a trip.
I love your sight. I often disagree with your politics, but hey we can
agree to disagree on some things. Anyway, if your interested I will
send along pics as they come in. Nice to expand the horizons of the
New Hampshire crew. Also, if people want to visit, I will be a willing
guide. I am surfing the Taranaki Region. West coast.
Chris Heatherton
The one image I sent is just an example. Place called Kumera Patch 100-200
meter long L.
Cheers.
Hey
Chris:
I
am jealous. I so badly wanted to travel to New Zealand when I was younger
and had less responsibility in my life. For as long as I can remember,
the waves of New Zealand have had that powerful allure. I guess it's
because it sort of reminds me of a Tropical New England.
I'd
love for you to send photos. My question is do you know how to size
them? I need them to be 800 pixels wide (left to right). Unless you
only send me one or two. Then I'll size em for you. But if you send
a bunch I need them to fit that size width. 800 pixels. Also, if you
can ZIP them that would help when emailing them. I think I have WIN
ZIP.
I'm
glad you like the weekly column and photo gallery. I don't expect all
the surfers to agree with me as far as my politics go. That's why I
have that Disclaimer at the entry page. I love this country and support
the office of the presidency. Like the previous administration, these
new guys need to be held accountable for when things go bad.
Now
enough about that silly stuff...go get some green barrels for Ralphie!
Ralph
November 2, 2009
Hello Ralph,
Almost
every week I watch your webpage and I love it! Thanks!
You
took a picture of me on that epic Sunday 25. I was wondering if you
could send me a High def. version of it, so I could put it on my wall.
I
dont know if photogs do that, giving pictures
Anyway,
I had to ask.
Thanks!
Fred
Fred we sell high res photos all the time.
Sell not Give. Be happy to sell you a high res version of any photo
that I took. If it's one of the other Photogs they sell pics as well.
Just let me know which photo and I'll direct you to the right photographer.
Thanks.
Ralph
November 2, 2009
Ralph,
Thanks for your vigilant protection of surfer's rights (and left's depending
on the wave). Believe it or not the wave you caught for the Blatant
Drop In was my first wave of that day. Young Mr R------s was looking
right at me while he was paddling for that wave. I didn't know it was
him at the time and had to play defense for most of the wave. I guess
I'll have to chalk it up to youthful energy (ie: disrespect for others),
an affliction that strikes most youngen at some point or other.
As for the sentence, rather than have the weekly perp perform a service
for the victim perhaps he should put on an orange jumpsuit and walk
the beach picking up trash.
Thanks,
Bill
GREAT IDEA. I'll have to Photo shop a guy in
an Orange Jumpsuit and stick the Perp's head on the Criminal.
Ralph
November 2, 2009
Ralph, you should do a Wall Of Shame page and post the names
and pictures of repeat offenders Tony
I like that. Be easy to do. Make Wanted Posters
like in the Post Office.
Ralph
November 2, 2009
Ralph: Fantastic Job ! I know you had a ton of stuff to deal with this
week. The foliage shots are cool but the sunsets are fantastic. The
chowderheads video is fantastic,really great column this week.
Ed
I got lucky on those Sunset shots.
Ralph
November 1, 2009
Ralph,
Drop-in was hilarious! I love the part where Perry's board looks like
it is jabbing him in the neck ("four red fins"). Great foliage
pix and
Colors photo. I
agree with you about the Wall. It is truly a remarkable place.
Waves looking real good for Tues/Wed. Offshores.
Right on!
Johnny
Yea that was one of the more colorful Drop-Ins.
I'm gonna be making them the Invisible Surfer Man feature I love the
Wall.
Ralph
November 1, 2009
Ralph,
You have some great pics from this week.
Making me jealous... and Mikey looks good.
Brian
Thanks Brian, but you have nothing to be jealous
over.
You are still the man.
Ralph
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